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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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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
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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.
Alumni news
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.
Research news
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

Durham University and Atom bank agree five-year partnership

We have signed a five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Durham-based Atom bank, the UK’s first app-based bank, to carry out collaborative research that addresses longer term opportunities and challenges facing both organisations and wider society, such as climate change.
Business and Partnerships
Karen O'Brien Durham University and Edward Twiddy Atom bank signing memorandum
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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.

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How the first year at school can boost earnings in later life

Children who start school in the most effective classes can expect to earn more than their peers in later life, according to a new study by Durham University and the Department for Education.
Reception teachers

New partner joins economy-boosting Northern Accelerator programme

More high-value research and development jobs will be created in the North as the University of York joins Northern Accelerator. The partnership, now consisting of six Northern universities, supports academics to turn their world-leading research into highly investible, innovative businesses.
Dr Andrew Jackson and Dr Tim Hammond

Durham University Research

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Thought Leadership

Schools and teachers are as important as policy in the promotion of quality and equity in education

Professors emeriti in our School of Education Mike Fleming and Michael (Mike) Byram examine the importance of quality and equity in education policy.

Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion
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The rise and rise of property guardianship and what it says about our broken housing system

Dr Chris Bevan from our Law School explains what property guardianship is and the history behind the alternative housing system.
Research news
Old buildings

Fearmongering about people fleeing disasters is a dangerous and faulty narrative

Dr Corey Robinson from our School of Government and International Affairs collaborates with Dr Yvonne Su from York University, Canada, on explaining why fearmongering about migrants is dangerous.
Research news
People walking across the desert.
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