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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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Collaborating with Action for ME to improve understanding of ME

Dr Katharine Cheston, from our Institute for Medical Humanities and Department of Sociology, is working with the charity Action for ME to better understand what it is like to live with ME and long Covid.

Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion
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UK must increase water availability to meet decarbonisation goals

The UK must significantly increase water availability to meet its decarbonisation goals, according to new research led by our Department of Engineering and involving our Department of Earth Sciences.
Research news
The Humber Suspension Bridge spans over the River Humber.

The new archbishop of Canterbury has already made history – but she has huge challenges ahead

Dr William Crozier, Duns Scotus Assistant Professor in Franciscan Studies, in our Department of Theology and Religion, discusses the challenges facing the new Archbishop of Canterbury.
Global research
A wider view of the cloister at Canterbury Cathedral

Law School expert wins prestigious award for research on freedom of expression

Dr Ge Chen has won an international honour for his research into freedom of expression with a focus on China.
Global research
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Durham University to co-chair the Japan-UK RENKEI research consortium

We are strengthening our research links with Japan with the appointment of Professor Claire O’Malley as the UK co-chair of the Japan-UK RENKEI consortium.
Global research
A row of people sitting behind tables and signing documents. A banner behind them reads RENKEI.

Durham University to help deliver AI Growth Zone

Durham University will take a key role in delivering a new AI Growth Zone in North East England – an initiative that promises to create thousands of jobs.
Business and Partnerships
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Church of England must do more to recognise dangers of spiritual authority

The Church of England must do more to create a culture in which spiritual authority is handled safely, according to a new report from Durham University.
Research news
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UK must increase water availability to meet decarbonisation goals

The UK must significantly increase water availability to meet its decarbonisation goals, according to new research led by our Department of Engineering and involving our Department of Earth Sciences.

The Humber Suspension Bridge spans over the River Humber.

Church of England must do more to recognise dangers of spiritual authority

The Church of England must do more to create a culture in which spiritual authority is handled safely, according to a new report from Durham University.
Four lit candles with stained glass window in the background.

Twenty Durham researchers appointed to REF 2029 sub-panels

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

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Thought Leadership

The new archbishop of Canterbury has already made history – but she has huge challenges ahead

Dr William Crozier, Duns Scotus Assistant Professor in Franciscan Studies, in our Department of Theology and Religion, discusses the challenges facing the new Archbishop of Canterbury.

Global research
A wider view of the cloister at Canterbury Cathedral

Specialised teachers can make mainstream schools better for children with special educational needs

Dr Johny Daniel, Associate Professor in our School of Education, explores what the UK government could do to ensure that children with special educational needs receive the support they need in mainstream schools.
Durham news
A female teacher in a classroom leaning over a schoolboy to turn a page of a book as they both smile

Plants are incredibly sensitive – what we learned about their response system could help protect humans

Dr Miguel de Lucas and his team has built a detailed cell‑by‑cell map showing how plants use post‑translational modifications, especially sumoylation, to detect and respond to stresses such as drought, salinity or pathogens.
Research news
Plants
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