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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 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
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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

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

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.
Research news
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.
Research news
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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
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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.

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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

Four ways to support a friend or loved one with long COVID

An estimated 2.3 million people in the UK are currently living with long COVID. The condition is most commonly reported by people aged 35-69, but it can affect people of any age. And many young people will also face the need to support friends or relatives. Dr Ana Leite from our Department of Psychology gives us a few tips on how to support a loved one.
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Durham University Research

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Thought Leadership

Three surprising reasons human actions threaten endangered primates

Dr Sian Waters, from our Department of Anthropology, along with Tracie McKinney from the University of South Wales and Michelle Rodrigues from Marquette University, describe human actions that threaten primates.

Research news
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The Whale: Brendan Fraser’s comeback offers rare representation of the fat queer male body on screen

Professor Santiago Fouz Hernández, from our School of Modern Languages and Cultures, explores the impact of Brendan Fraser's role in The Whale.
Research news
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The Holocaust: remembering the powerful acts of ‘ordinary people’

Mr. Daniel Adamson, who is a PhD Candidate in our Department of History, explains the importance of remembering 'ordinary people,' which is the official theme for Holocaust Memorial Day 2023.
Research news
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