The Gobi Dinosaur Museum (GDM) is a project of the Institute for the Study of Mongolian
Dinosaurs (ISMD), dedicated to strengthening geoscience education, conserving Mongolia’s fossil heritage, and promoting Mongolian paleontology. Our mission is to inspire and train the next generation of Mongolian paleontologists while preserving the country’s rich prehistoric legacy.
Global Design & Architecture Design Awards 2025
First Award | Architectural Innovation of the Year (Concept)
Project Name: Mongolian Dinosaur Museum
Category: Architectural Innovation of the Year (Concept)
Studio Name: Diana Kellogg Architects
Design Team: Diana Kellogg – Project Architect, Basia Kuziemski – Architectural designer, Manika
Garg, Riya Bissa, Virinshi Mehra
Area: 3143 m2
Year: 2025
Location: Flaming Cliffs, Mongolia
Consultants: NA
Photography Credits:NA
Render Credits: Manika Grag, Basia Kuziemski
Other Credits:
Vision
We envision a dynamic community rooted in education, conservation, and exploration. By
fostering a culture of discovery, GDM will serve as a center for immersive learning and a hub for paleontological research in the Gobi Desert and beyond.
Visionary Leadership
The project is led by Bolortsetseg Minjin, a world-renowned Mongolian paleontologist and
geologist. Known for her groundbreaking discovery of 67 dinosaur fossils in a single week,
Bolortsetseg has played a pivotal role in safeguarding Mongolia’s fossil heritage. Since 2012, she has led critical initiatives to combat the illegal dinosaur trade, ensuring the preservation of Mongolia’s national treasures for future generations. Her tireless advocacy and conservation work have earned her global recognition as a trailblazer in paleontology and environmental stewardship.
Innovative Design
Designed by award-winning sustainable architect Diana Kellogg, the museum will seamlessly integrate cultural heritage with environmental consciousness. Located by legendary Flaming Cliffs, it will stand as a beacon of scientific discovery and cultural reverence. Committed to sustainability and community engagement, the project emphasizes the use of locally sourced materials, ensuring a thoughtful and eco-conscious design.
GDM’s Three Pillars
1. The Museum at the Flaming Cliffs
Located near the iconic Flaming Cliffs—site of the first dinosaur egg discovery—the
museum will house stunning fossil exhibits and interactive displays in Mongolian and
English.
2. Research Facility in Bulgan
Situated near the world’s richest fossil sites, this state-of-the-art center will attract
international paleontologists while empowering Mongolian scientists to lead
groundbreaking research and conservation efforts.
3. Immersive Educational Experiences
Hands-on workshops, school outreach programs, and virtual learning tools will spark
curiosity and inspire the next generation to preserve Mongolia’s prehistoric treasures.
Why It Matters
Despite its global significance, the Flaming Cliffs region lacks infrastructure and faces threats like fossil poaching. GDM will change this, promoting sustainable tourism, preserving fossils, and creating jobs while empowering local communities.
