Research to empower and inspire
We are a globally outstanding centre of teaching, learning and research excellence. We are a world top 100 university, with 12 of our subjects ranked in the world top 50 and 19 in the world top 100. We conduct innovative and impactful research to transform lives and make a difference, globally and locally: research to empower and inspire.
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Explore our global research
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Research Impact at Durham
Read about our Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021 impact case studies.
Global Culture
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Latest news
European universities launch major declaration on tackling climate change
Thirty-nine European universities have come together to launch the Durham Declaration, which will shape our joint efforts towards sustainable development.
Building on an impactful partnership, from research to culture
Our long-standing relationship with Japan has been furthered, with a recent diplomatic visit focusing on research collaborations, language and cultural activities, and the local community.
Leading environmentalist opens university climate meeting with stark warning
Dr Tony Juniper CBE, Chair of Natural England, addressed leaders of 39 European universities at a climate symposium held at Durham University this week.
Archaeologists unearth one of the UK’s largest Iron Age hoards
Our archaeologists have excavated one of the largest and most important Iron Age finds in the UK.
Scientists help create biggest 3D map of the universe and it’s changing what we know about Dark Energy
Our scientists have played a leading role in creating the largest-ever 3D map of the universe, using data from 15 million galaxies and quasars.
Durham astrophysicists’ key contributions to cosmic discoveries
Scientists from our Centre for Extragalactic Astronomy and our Institute for Computational Cosmology are playing a crucial role as part of a major international space mission to map the Universe.
‘Undercover anthropologist’ recognised for exceptional potential
Dr Sheina Lew-Levy, from our Department of Psychology, has been awarded a prestigious Philip Leverhulme Prize for Psychology.
Department ranked 11th in the prestigious QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025
Our Department has been ranked 11th in the prestigious QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025.
Spotlight on: Professor Karen Johnson – advocating for the importance of soil health
Our Spotlight On series celebrates our academics’ global impact. Karen Johnson is a Professor of Environmental Engineering and a passionate advocate for soil health. She believes soil is an under-appreciated resource that can help address a range of environmental challenges.
Spotlight on: Professor Carlos Frenk – shaping modern cosmology
Welcome to the next instalment of our ‘Spotlight on’ series where we celebrate the world-leading work of our academics. Professor Carlos Frenk’s pioneering work on dark matter has fundamentally shaped modern cosmology and our understanding of the Universe.
Spotlight on: Professor Carol Adams – setting the standard in corporate sustainability reporting
Carol Adams is an Emeritus Professor of Accounting in our Business School. She is a globally renowned expert in corporate accounting and sustainability reporting, focusing on its impact on business, society and the environment.
Durham Global Awards Success!
Congratulations to three of DSES’ own, Professor Brett Smith, Professor Stacey Pope, and Adam Dickson (PhD candidate), who were all nominated for Durham Global Awards this week at an evening reception at the Oriental Museum.
Research Newsletter
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