Research to empower and inspire
We are a globally outstanding centre of teaching, learning and research excellence. We are a world top 100 university, with 12 of our subjects ranked in the world top 50 and 19 in the world top 100. We conduct innovative and impactful research to transform lives and make a difference, globally and locally: research to empower and inspire.
Explore our latest research news
Explore our global research
Discover how our research is changing lives around the world using the button below. We also have a static PDF version available.
Discover more
Research Impact at Durham
Read about our Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021 impact case studies.
Global Culture
Interested in how the cultural activities of Durham's staff and student bodies enrich life worldwide? Head to the Global Culture page to find out.
Latest news
Developing new gene variants to breed climate resilient chickpeas
Scientists from our top-rated Biosciences Department working with colleagues from Harran University in Turkey and University of California Davis in the USA, have discovered that flowering time in chickpeas and its wild relatives are influenced by one to three major genes.
Protecting cultural heritage around the world
We’re excited to launch a Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) entitled Endangered Archaeology: Using Remote Sensing to Protect Cultural Heritage.
University welcomes stronger connections with India
Strengthening educational ties between the UK and India is one of the areas of focus of the UK Prime Minister’s visit to India this week.
Record number of Durham subjects in world’s top 50
Durham University is at the forefront of global academic excellence and our global rankings reflect that status.
Understanding surface melting around the world’s largest ice sheet
A first-of-its-kind study led by our Department of Geography has investigated the formation of surface meltwater lakes around the world’s largest ice sheet, offering new insights into the potential impact of recent climate change on the ‘Frozen Continent’.
Tackling global childhood obesity with ground-breaking research
Research by Sport and Exercise Sciences has made a positive impact on policy and practice addressing the global problem of childhood obesity.
How a makeshift PoW chapel from WWII continues to connect Ukrainians and Britons
PhD student, Daniel Adamson, from our Department of History, discusses the history of a chapel in Scotland created by Ukrainian prisoners of war and how this ties in with current events.
Ukraine war: death of a ‘fixer’ underlines the dangers of this unsung but vital job for journalism
Professor Tim Luckhurst, Principal of South College, emphasises the importance of a 'fixer' to broadcasters covering foreign conflicts for international news organisations.
Toolkit supports better learning for disadvantaged pupils
Our highly-rated School of Education has developed a pioneering toolkit to ensure funding for pupils, and especially disadvantaged children, is spent effectively.
Empowering youth voices in the Mediterranean
Our academics are tackling real-world situations and solving sensitive issues through their pioneering and impactful research.
The Durham Centre for Cultural Heritage Protection Statement on Ukraine
At a time when the cultural heritage of Ukraine is under very real and immediate threat, we send our support to the cultural heritage community in Ukraine and ask that all national and international agencies do their utmost to protect the country’s rich heritage from damage.
Off-shore energy storage project wins UK Government backing
A new collaboration between Durham University and Crondall Energy Ltd to explore the potential of Compressed Air Energy Storage (CAES) in the UK continental shelf, has won backing from the UK government.
Research Newsletter
Sign up for our research newsletter to receive the latest updates on ground-breaking studies, acclaimed academics, and emerging trends shaping the academic landscape. Designed for researchers, senior leaders and curious minds, our newsletter delivers valuable insights and expert commentary.