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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
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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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Middle East’s Bronze and Iron Age cultures were committed to wine production

Ancient plant samples have shown that farmers in the Middle East prioritised wine production over olive growing during times of climatic change.

Global research
A bunch of red grapes on a metal table top

Simulations solve centuries-old cosmic puzzle – and reveal new class of ancient star systems

Astronomers have solved a centuries-old puzzle surrounding one of the Universe’s oldest and densest star systems.
Global research
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Polar geoengineering ideas will not help and could harm, experts warn

Five of the most-publicised polar geoengineering ideas are highly unlikely to help the polar regions, according to a new study involving our geographers.
Global research
An ice sheet juts out into the ocean.

Twenty Durham researchers appointed to REF 2029 sub-panels

Twenty of our researchers will take important roles in assessing UK universities’ research quality.
Research news
Woman in lab coat holding microscope-like device

Study shows the lack of ‘me time’ for new mothers

New mothers only have about an hour out of their waking day for rest, according to new research by our psychologists.
Research news
A mother kissing her baby's foot whils the baby is lying on the bed

Understanding readers’ imaginations could enhance mental health therapies

A new tool to understand how people imagine differently when reading could have potential implications for the treatment of mental ill health.
Global research
Cards scattered on a table with the central card reading ReaderBank

Using computers to track the changing sound of bands

Coldplay, Radiohead or R.E.M. – which band has changed their music the most over the years?
Research news
Lead singer of Coldplay, Chris Martin, performing at a concert.
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Twenty Durham researchers appointed to REF 2029 sub-panels

Twenty of our researchers will take important roles in assessing UK universities’ research quality.

Woman in lab coat holding microscope-like device

Study shows the lack of ‘me time’ for new mothers

New mothers only have about an hour out of their waking day for rest, according to new research by our psychologists.
A mother kissing her baby's foot whils the baby is lying on the bed

Has immigration led to a new form of labour market protectionism in Europe?

Drawing on a study of legislative changes in Austria, Germany, Ireland and the UK, Omar Hammoud-Gallego, Pat McGovern and Eiko Thielemann identify a new development in immigration control that extends beyond borders into the workplace.
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Explore our global research

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Durham University Research

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Thought Leadership

  • Why Egypt is not bowing to pressure to accept Palestinian refugees

    Dr Rory McCarthy, Associate Professor in Politics and Islam, at our School of Government and International Affairs is an expert in social movements, contentious politics, and Islamism in the Middle East and North Africa. Here Rory discusses the latest Israel military advances and the pressures on Egypt.
    Global research
    Map location of Egypt

  • A volcano or a meteorite? New evidence sheds light on puzzling discovery in Greenland’s ice sheet

    New evidence from Greenland's ice sheet challenges previous theories about a mysterious impact site. Professor James Baldini from our Earth Sciences Department now suggesting it could be the result of a volcanic eruption rather than a meteorite strike.
    Research news
    Volcanic eruption

  • What we’ve learned about narcissism over the past 30 years

    You’ve probably seen the word “narcissist” thrown around online in headlines, on dating apps or in therapy-themed TikToks. But the label that people often unthinkingly slap on toxic bosses or reality TV villains hides a much more complicated psychological picture. Here our Assistant Professor of Educational Psychology, Sarah Walker, explores the evolution of our knowledge of narcissism over the last three decades.
    Durham news
    A man wearing a smart blue shirt and waistcoat poses for a selfie using a selfie stick

Why Egypt is not bowing to pressure to accept Palestinian refugees

Dr Rory McCarthy, Associate Professor in Politics and Islam, at our School of Government and International Affairs is an expert in social movements, contentious politics, and Islamism in the Middle East and North Africa. Here Rory discusses the latest Israel military advances and the pressures on Egypt.

Global research
Map location of Egypt

A volcano or a meteorite? New evidence sheds light on puzzling discovery in Greenland’s ice sheet

New evidence from Greenland's ice sheet challenges previous theories about a mysterious impact site. Professor James Baldini from our Earth Sciences Department now suggesting it could be the result of a volcanic eruption rather than a meteorite strike.
Research news
Volcanic eruption

What we’ve learned about narcissism over the past 30 years

You’ve probably seen the word “narcissist” thrown around online in headlines, on dating apps or in therapy-themed TikToks. But the label that people often unthinkingly slap on toxic bosses or reality TV villains hides a much more complicated psychological picture. Here our Assistant Professor of Educational Psychology, Sarah Walker, explores the evolution of our knowledge of narcissism over the last three decades.
Durham news
A man wearing a smart blue shirt and waistcoat poses for a selfie using a selfie stick
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