Collections tell the story of life on Earth. Every discovery sheds new light on the past, and helps us better anticipate the future.
The Burke is an active research museum. The more than 18 million biological, geological and cultural objects in its collections are a respected and relied-upon resource for researchers here and around the globe.
Collections & Research
Students, researchers, artists and community members draw on the collections to build knowledge of our world—and address challenges facing communities in the Pacific Northwest and around the globe.
Heritage
Biology
Geology & Paleontology
![a student and professor look at art together](/sites/default/files/images/heritage/contemporary-culture/achieving-chief-status3-500x500teaser.jpg)
Our Work
At the Burke, we bring together people, objects, and the stories that make them meaningful.
Photo: Timothy Kenney/Burke Museum
Photo: Timothy Kenney/Burke Museum