- Flett Events Theatre, Red Zone
- Tuesday 6 May, 18.30–20.00
- Adult: £25, Member: £15
Dig Deeper
A regular series of talks bringing you closer to our science.
Delve into our pioneering projects and find out more about our collections as we celebrate and showcase the world-leading scientific research we carry out here at the Museum.
Led by our scientists and covering a broad range of topics, these panel discussions dig deeper into our rich history, pioneering science and compelling collections.
Our scientists will be joined by an exciting line up of external speakers for a series of inspiring conversations that is not to be missed. Whether you want to learn about a new topic, delve into the world of scientific discovery or contribute to the discussion, these talks are perfect for you.
All onsite tickets include a free drink.
Dig Deeper: Unmasking the Illegal Wildlife Trade
Join us for an eye-opening Dig Deeper talk as we explore the complex issues surrounding wildlife crime and how experts are working tirelessly to stop it.
Hear from our Senior Curator in Charge of Mammals Roberto Portela Miguez and Forensic Imaging Expert for the Metropolitan Police Mark Moseley. Together they’ll delve into the devastating impact of wildlife crime and how it threatens biodiversity. They’ll then take a look at the innovative methods used to track, investigate and prevent the illegal trade of wildlife.
Mark will discuss his latest research on capturing the unique handprints and footprints of gorillas and the cutting-edge forensic techniques, science and technology used to fight gorilla trafficking. Roberto will delve into how using the gorilla specimens in the collection we care for is helping with this research.
Picture: © Britta Jaschinski
Speaker biographies
Roberto Portela Miguez
Roberto is Principal Curator and Senior Curator in charge of Mammals at London’s Natural History Museum. His responsibilities involve the management of the fluid-preserved specimens and dry specimens, which includes skulls, skeletons and skins, in the mammals section of the collections we care for. He also assists with answering collection-related enquiries, dealing with loan requests and supervising scientists visiting the collections. Roberto’s main interest is in promoting and exploring the mammal collection, which is critical for taxonomic and systematic research. He also supports the work of colleagues in other disciplines, such as ecology, conservation, physiology and anatomy, among others.
Mark Moseley
Mark is part of the Metropolitan Police’s Forensic Specialist Imaging and Fingerprinting Team, working at crime scenes around London. In his personal time, Mark developed a series of tools and techniques to help tackle wildlife crime that can be used by people around the world. His groundbreaking new method of fingerprint testing uses magnetic particles rather than dust. This means fingerprints can be found on an elephant’s tusk for around a month after it was touched. Wildlife crime is often overlooked and under prosecuted but involves huge, organised criminal networks. Modern investigative techniques, such as the ones Mark has developed, are helping catch poachers, smugglers and traffickers who are destroying the natural world.
How to watch
Onsite
Book your place to join us in-person in our Flett Events Theatre.
Online
If you’re a Member, Patron or Corporate Supporter and you’re unable to join us in person, you can watch these talks for free online via a private web link accessible on The Hive.
Our Members, Patrons and Corporate Supporters will also receive an email with the private web link on the day of the talk. Make sure you’re opted in to receive our e-newsletters. If you haven’t received an e-newsletter recently, contact us to confirm your email address.
Non-Members
If you’re a not a member, you can book an online-only ticket. This will give you access to the livestream and online recording. You’ll be emailed the link to the livestream on the day of the event.
How to ask a question
You can ask questions in real-time during the livestream by heading to the video on YouTube and typing your question in the chat box.
We’ll also take questions from our in-person audience as part of the question and answer section of the talk.
Visiting information
- Members, please remember to bring your membership card to present alongside your Members ticket.
- Tickets are non-transferrable and no refunds or exchanges will be given.
- We'll send an email with more information the week of the event to help you prepare for your visit.
- Doors open at 18.30, the event ends at 20.00.
- This event is recommended for ages 12+ but all ages are welcome.
- You're not allowed to bring alcohol, any alcohol will be confiscated.
- This event is wheelchair accessible.
- Got a question? Contact us anytime via after-hours@nhm.ac.uk
Discount member tickets
Members can purchase discount tickets for this event. Please bring your membership card with you to the event. Not a member? Join today.
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