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Current Research

Research that makes a difference.

Durham is an ancient seat of learning and a leading world University which, since its establishment in 1832, has developed a distinctive reputation for leadership and innovation in education and research.
Research and Business
Scientists examine DNA models in modern Neurological Research Laboratory

Research, scholarship and ideas are at the core of Durham University. We are home to some of the most talented researchers and scholars from around the world, tackling global issues, and making a difference to people's lives. Research directly informs our undergraduate and postgraduate teaching and, in partnership with policy-makers, industry, the public sector, and communities around the world, shapes local, national and international agendas.

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First research flight images from innovative balloon-borne telescope

Our astronomers are part of an international team behind the successful first research flight of an innovative balloon-borne telescope that will investigate the mystery of dark matter.

Research news
A host of stars with the Tarantula Nebula at its centre

Durham awarded £1.25m to accelerate social science impact

We’ve been awarded £1.25 million from the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) to develop impact from ESRC-funded research.
Research news
Brass band outreach

Open for business: Northern Accelerator co-hosts investment showcase

Northstar Ventures, in partnership with Durham University-led Northern Accelerator, a collaboration between the North East’s universities, hosted a breakfast event in London to showcase the next decade’s £30 billion of investable opportunities in North East England.
Business and Partnerships
Left to right - Dominic Endicott, Director of Northstar Ventures & Sarah Green, Chief Executive NGI

Durham University start-up named as a finalist in prestigious Earthshot Prize 2022

Durham University start-up, Low Carbon Materials, has recently been announced as one of three international finalists in the Fix Our Climate category in the world’s most prestigious environmental prize, The Earthshot Prize 2022.
Global research
Low Carbon Materials CEO Natasha Boulding (1050 x 350px)

Can you help record the UK’s mammal activity?

If you’re interested in conservation and ecology, our MammalWeb project needs your help to chart the activity of the UK’s mammals.
Research news
Otters stare at the camera after being caught on a camera trap

Teesside and Durham Universities embark on £11million project to support hydrogen innovation in the Tees Valley

We are collaborating with Teesside University on a ground-breaking project to accelerate decarbonisation and the use of hydrogen through supporting industrial research and development and capacity building in the Tees Valley.
Global research
Professor Tony Roskilly

Fetuses react to taste and smell in the womb

Our psychologists have shown the first direct evidence that babies react differently to various smells and tastes while in the womb by looking at their facial expressions.
Research news
4-D ultrasound scan of a baby showing a laugh face reaction
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  • Professor Graham Towl appointed to key crime reduction role

    Professor Graham Towl has been appointed as the new chair of the Scottish Advisory Panel on Offender Rehabilitation (SAPOR) which is a key role to help reduce crime in Scotland.
    Research news
    Graham Towl leaning against a fence

  • Media coverage of women’s football on the rise

    Media coverage of women’s football has substantially increased in the last few years with respectful coverage continuing to grow, according to a new study by our sport scientists.
    Research news
    England player, Lucy Bronze runs with the ball whilst under pressure from Katrina Gorry of Australia during a friendly.

  • How music festivals could be made safer for women

    Research by our Durham Law School has found that the set up and culture of music festivals can create dangerous spaces where sexual violence and harassment can be perpetrated. As we approach the music festival season, we caught up with Dr Hannah Bows to tell us more.
    Research news
    Crowds enjoying a music concert

Professor Graham Towl appointed to key crime reduction role

Professor Graham Towl has been appointed as the new chair of the Scottish Advisory Panel on Offender Rehabilitation (SAPOR) which is a key role to help reduce crime in Scotland.

Graham Towl leaning against a fence

Media coverage of women’s football on the rise

Media coverage of women’s football has substantially increased in the last few years with respectful coverage continuing to grow, according to a new study by our sport scientists.
England player, Lucy Bronze runs with the ball whilst under pressure from Katrina Gorry of Australia during a friendly.

How music festivals could be made safer for women

Research by our Durham Law School has found that the set up and culture of music festivals can create dangerous spaces where sexual violence and harassment can be perpetrated. As we approach the music festival season, we caught up with Dr Hannah Bows to tell us more.
Crowds enjoying a music concert

Durham University Research

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Thought Leadership

Henry VIII’s favourite fool – a new book draws a portrait of the man the Tudor court loved to laugh at

Professor Alec Ryrie from our Department of Theology and Religion explores a new book written by Swedish historian Peter Andersson on the life of court fool Will Somers during the reign of Henry VIII.

Durham news
Henry VIII

Respectful provocation: the university skill for our times?

Challenging students about their assumptions and values makes them better equipped to engage with the challenges of living in a diverse society, writes Professor Mathew Guest, Professor of the Sociology of Religion and Head of our Department of Theology and Religion.
Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion
Six young adults sitting round a desk chatting, smiling and laughing. In the background are shelves of books

“Senzenina: What have we done?” We are all entangled in the politics of peace

On International Day of Peace, 21 September, Professor Stefanie Kappler from our School of Government and International Affairs reflects on the politics of peace in relation to art and, in particular, the work of South African artist and activist Haroon Gunn-Salie.
Global research
An image of the Marikana mine, South Africa
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