Earth Science Department

Understanding Past Climates & Ecosystems

The Palynology/Paleobotany section applies interdisciplinary science to reconstruct ancient environments using fossilized pollen and plant materials.

Key Research Areas:

• Paleoecology & Climate Change:

  • Reconstructing past vegetation and ecosystems.
  • Studying phytoplankton to infer paleoclimatic conditions.

• Limnology & Freshwater Systems:

  • Using diatoms and sponge spicules to study past lake levels and climate fluctuations.

• Biostratigraphy & Geochronology:

  • Correlating rock strata and determining the relative age of formations.

• Archaeological Palynology:

  • Examining plant use in ancient civilizations to identify agricultural practices and human settlement patterns.

• Forensic Palynology:

  • Studying pollen evidence for crime scene investigations.

• Melissopalynology:

  • Analyzing pollen in honey to assist bee farmers and conservationists.

Uncovering the History of Life on Earth

The Paleontology section curates over 350,000 vertebrate fossils, including 1,000 early human remains, making it one of the largest fossil collections in Africa.

Major Research Focus:

• Human Evolution:

  • Housing some of the world’s most significant hominid fossils, including Turkana Boy.

• Dinosaur Discoveries:

  • Fossils from Northern Kenya, dating back 100 million years.

• Fossil Curation & Research:

  • Processing, reconstructing, and studying fossils to enhance global knowledge on biodiversity and evolution.

• Public Education & Outreach:

  • Organizing exhibitions, workshops, and guided fossil viewings.

Decoding Human History Through Material Culture

The Archaeology Section is one of the oldest and most vibrant divisions at NMK. It focuses on:

• Prehistoric Research:

  • Investigating stone tools, pottery, and ancient settlements.

• Field Excavations & Dating Techniques:

  • Conducting archaeological digs across Kenya.

• Knowledge Sharing & Community Engagement:

  • Ensuring discoveries contribute to cultural identity and education.

Exploring Earth’s Physical History

The Geology Section is essential in understanding Earth’s formation, composition, and environmental changes.

Core Activities:

• Geological Mapping & Rock Analysis:

  • Studying Kenya’s rock formations and mineral resources.

• Fossil Dating & Stratigraphy:

  • Providing age estimates for fossils and sediments.

• Applied Geology & Environmental Studies:

  • Conducting impact assessments for development projects and land conservation.

• Consulting & Technical Services:

  • Assisting the public with geological material identification and site evaluations.