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Current Research

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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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Medical humanities pioneer to oversee influential bioethics council

Professor Jane Macnaughton from our Institute for Medical Humanities and Department of Anthropology has been chosen as the next Chair of the Nuffield Council on Bioethics Governing Board.

Durham news
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How exercise can support eating disorder recovery

Research led by Dr Hester Hockin-Boyers (Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences), suggests that combining seemingly opposing approaches to health management could support eating disorder recovery.
Research news
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Landmark Syriac Studies conference brings international research excellence to UK

A landmark conference about Syriac Studies brought more than 70 researchers from 20 countries to Durham last month. The event was a hub for academic collaboration and knowledge sharing. It was also a formative experience for early-career scholars. Here, the organisers reflect on the key highlights of the conference and why there has recently been a major revival of academic interest in Syriac Studies.
Durham news
A group photo taken at the Syriac Studies in the UK conference

Supporting the next generation through oracy development

The Commission on the Future of Oracy Education in England officially launched today at the Voice 21 Speaking Summit.
Research news
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New £5m research centre driving economic growth and sustainability

A new joint research initiative focusing on energy systems integration has been awarded £5m by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) to help boost UK economic growth and address regional needs.
Research news
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First research flight images from innovative balloon-borne telescope

Our astronomers are part of an international team behind the successful first research flight of an innovative balloon-borne telescope that will investigate the mystery of dark matter.
Research news
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Durham awarded £1.25m to accelerate social science impact

We’ve been awarded £1.25 million from the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) to develop impact from ESRC-funded research.
Research news
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Loneliness in old age and the role of social workers

Loneliness has been identified as a major challenge for social work because of its significant impact on health and social care services, particularly for older people. It is linked to conditions like heart disease, stroke and Alzheimer’s disease.

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How teaching shortages could be tackled

A worldwide comparison of 18 countries suggests that teaching needs to be made more attractive to a wider pool of graduates to tackle shortages in the profession.
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Abuse crisis in Catholic Church has led to drop in Mass attendance

A third of Catholics who previously went to Mass have reduced their attendance or stopped going altogether as a result of the child sexual abuse crisis in the Catholic Church.
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Thought Leadership

Italy’s ban on international surrogacy is part of a drive towards an ultra-conservative idea of family

Assistant Professor in Family Law Dafni Lima responds to the Italian parliament's recent decision to criminalise surrogacy worldwide.

Research news
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Donald Trump’s approach to US space policy could throw up some surprises, especially with Elon Musk on board

Dr Bleddyn Bowen from the School of Government and International Affairs and Dr P.J. Blount from the Durham Law School predict what's in store for US space travel in Donald Trump's second presidency.
Durham news
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Adelaide by Genevieve Wheeler: a ‘sad girl novel’ that lacks emotional depth

Research Associate in Medical Humanities Veronica Heney reviews the latest example of a rising genre of women's fiction.
Research news
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