Skip to main content
Research and Business
Wind turbines against a blue sky reflected in ground water

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.

Discover More

What's new?

Filter:

£2bn cost of mental ill health ‘parallel pandemic’

We’ve contributed to a report which shows that the negative effect of the Covid-19 pandemic on mental health was largest and most prolonged in the North of England.

Research news
This is the card image's alt text.

Scientists discover world’s longest underwater avalanche after rescue of lost data

We’ve discovered the world’s longest underwater avalanche – after recovering lost data swept away by the dramatic event.
Research news
A sensor is lowered from a boat into the ocean

Highest ever temperature recorded in Durham

Durham has recorded its highest ever maximum temperature of 36.9°C.
Research news
A view of Durham Cathedral and Castle on a sunny day

First images from new space telescope part-developed in Durham

The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) – which Durham helped to develop and engineer – has captured its first images.
Research news
James Webb first deep field image

Encouraging writers to present an accurate view of self-harm

We’ve created new resources designed to help writers present an accurate view of people at risk of self-harm.
Research news
A couple holding hands in a comforting way

600,000-year-old finds point to some of Britain’s earliest humans

Early humans were present in Britain between 560,000 and 620,000 years ago, according to new research involving our Department of Geography.
Research news
Artist's impression of early humans

Chronicling over 180 years of Durham’s changing climate

A new book chronicles the weather and climate in Durham over the past 180 years from ice-skating on the River Wear to the City’s hottest day.
Research news
A man sits on a bench next to the flooded River Wear
Discover More News

Fate of the world’s biggest ice sheet is in our hands

The fate of the world’s biggest ice sheet is in our hands, researchers say.

This is the card image's alt text.

Need help tackling your procrastination? This could be the book for you!

Professor Fuschia Sirois, a globally renowned expert in the psychology of procrastination in our Department of Psychology, has distilled her game-changing insights into a new book to help procrastinators understand the issue, and how to tackle it.
Image of alarm clock with notes about delaying tasks

£2bn cost of mental ill health ‘parallel pandemic’

We’ve contributed to a report which shows that the negative effect of the Covid-19 pandemic on mental health was largest and most prolonged in the North of England.
A close up of people holding hands

Durham University Research

This is the image alt text

Thought Leadership

Hosepipe ban: should you snitch on your neighbour’s water use? A philosopher’s take

Dr Peter West from our Department of Philosophy explores the ethical dilemma of a hosepipe ban and the suggestion by some water companies that people should report their neighbours if they are flouting the ban.

Research news
This is the card image's alt text.

The world’s biggest ice sheet is more vulnerable to global warming than scientists previously thought

The East Antarctic Ice Sheet is by far the largest on the planet and it's crucial that we don't awaken this sleeping giant. Professor Chris Stokes and Dr Guy Paxman from our Geography Department tell us why.
Research news
East Antarctic Ice Sheet

Euro 2022 can be a catalyst for women’s football in England – here’s how

Dr Stacey Pope, Associate Professor in the Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences, discusses how Euro 2022 has all the ingredients to be a breakthrough moment for women’s football in England.
Research news
Footballs on a field
Discover more comment and opinion