The PSU Museum: Interpretation of peninsular Thailand's nature

Abstract

The PSU Museum, officially named the Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn Natural History Museum is part of the Prince of Songkla University in Southern Thailand. The history of the museum’s collections is briefly documented. They originally developed to support the university’s teaching programs in the biological sciences, but have undergone rapid growth in recent years in support of biodiversity research in the region. The scope of the museum’s collections and associated outreach and educational programs are outlined. Administrative arrangements for the museum are analyzed. It is argued that professional museum staff members are required to augment the scientific expertise of the museum.