CU Museum will remain closed from Monday, December 23 through Friday, January 10 for CU’s official winter holidays and planned construction activities nearby. 
The Museum will resume normal operating hours (10 AM-4 PM) on Saturday, January 11, 2025. Thank you!

Construction updates, accessibility, and parking information 

Diatom Section

diatom

The Diatom Section of the University of Colorado Museum of Natural History houses a research collection of diatoms that is worldwide in scope, with particular strengthes in North America, Asia, and Africa.

Research in the Diatom Section focuses on important questions of taxonomy and ecology of diatoms, as well as examining questions about evolution, biogeography, phylogenetics, and fossil taxa. Researchers collaborate with colleagues at the United States Geological Survey, Environmental Protection Agency, Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia, California Academy of Sciences, and other organizations across the U.S. to add to the body of knowledge about diatoms and develop new tools for diatom research.

Student Job Opportunity

Diatom Lab Assistant
Hourly pay rate: $16.00

Two students are needed for laboratory work in the diatom lab in the Museum of Natural History. The work will include processing of algae samples from NEON and making cleaned samples/material and permanent microscope slides from them. Inventory work is included and attention to fine details are a must. This work involves the use of caustic chemicals. Expected work time is 5-15 hours per week. Work space is in the MCOL building on central campus. Open until the two positions are filled.

If interested, contact Dr. Patrick Kociolek.