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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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Milky Way could be teeming with more satellite galaxies than previously thought

The Milky Way could have many more satellite galaxies than scientists have previously been able to predict or observe.

Global research
A simulation showing a bright white galaxy at the centre, surrounded by fainter galaxies, against a black backdrop.

Working to answer the ultimate question – are we alone in the Universe?

Dr Cyril Bourgenot from our Centre for Advanced Instrumentation is part of a team developing cutting-edge technology to enable astronomers to look deeper into the Universe. He is presenting this work as part of the Royal Astronomical Society’s National Astronomy Meeting 2025, which is being hosted by Durham University this week. Here, Cyril tells us about his work and how it could help answer the ultimate astronomical question – is there life elsewhere.
Global research
Keck Observatory in Hawaii, taken at night with lasers shining into the sky

National Astronomy Meeting 2025 - exploring Durham’s rich astronomical research

Almost a thousand of the world’s top space scientists will visit Durham University next week (7 to 11 July) as we host the UK’s National Astronomy Meeting (NAM) 2025.
Global research
Two people looking up at a dark, starry sky.

Using GPS trackers to study red deer behaviour in Scotland

Researchers are tracking the movement of red deer in the Highlands of Scotland using GPS collars as part of a new project.
Research news
Two red deer

Pioneering collaboration will create new Green Corridors in the North East

We’re part of a collaboration to create three new ‘Green Corridors’ in the North East of England, transforming urban, suburban, and rural areas across the region.
Research news
River Wear in the foreground flowing past the remains of Finchale Priory in County Durham

Why newborn babies don’t need sleep training

Are you a new parent worrying about whether your baby is sleeping enough or how long they should nap for? A new book by our world-leading baby sleep expert, Professor Helen Ball, could be just what you need.
Research news
A mum holding a newborn baby in her arms.

£11.5m project to turn sewage into sustainable fuels

Our engineering and energy researchers are sharing in £11.5m to turn sewage sludge into sustainable fuels for transport and carbon products for agriculture and industry.
Global research
Aerial view of a sewage treatment works.
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Using GPS trackers to study red deer behaviour in Scotland

Researchers are tracking the movement of red deer in the Highlands of Scotland using GPS collars as part of a new project.

Two red deer

Pioneering collaboration will create new Green Corridors in the North East

We’re part of a collaboration to create three new ‘Green Corridors’ in the North East of England, transforming urban, suburban, and rural areas across the region.
River Wear in the foreground flowing past the remains of Finchale Priory in County Durham

Why newborn babies don’t need sleep training

Are you a new parent worrying about whether your baby is sleeping enough or how long they should nap for? A new book by our world-leading baby sleep expert, Professor Helen Ball, could be just what you need.
A mum holding a newborn baby in her arms.
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Thought Leadership

This tropical plant builds isolated ‘apartments’ to prevent battles among the aggressive ant tenants it relies on for survival

Professor Guillaume Chomicki from our Biosciences department reveals that some tropical plants in Fiji build special structures to house ants which is cleverly designed to stop them from fighting.

Research news
Tropical plants

UEFA Women’s Euros: Media coverage and gender equality

The UEFA Women’s Euros is in full swing, but a recent YouGov survey showed that interest in women’s football still lags well behind the men’s game. What does this mean in terms of gender equality in the sport? Expert on women, football and inequalities, Professor Stacey Pope, explains.
Research news
A black and white football on the grass in a stadium.

Pylon wars show why big energy plans need locals on board

Thousands of new electricity pylons are to be built across parts of England under the government’s plans to decarbonise the electricity. And some people aren’t happy. Professor Simone Abram from our Department of Anthropology and Director of Durham Energy Institute, explores why electricity pylons can evoke such powerful feelings.
Research news
Electricity pylons with sun setting behind them
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