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Research and Business
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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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Spotlight on: Professor Claire Horwell - protecting public health during volcanic eruptions

Our Spotlight On series celebrates our academics’ global impact. Professor Claire Horwell is a world-renowned expert on the health hazards of volcanic air pollution.

Research news
Professor Claire Horwell pictured outside with foliage and a view of a volcano behind her

Spacecraft regularly burn up in the atmosphere - is this causing harm?

Physics fellow Dr Fionagh Thomson will explore the potential risks of decommissioning satellites in the atmosphere in a project funded by the UK Space Agency. 
Research news
Polar stratospheric clouds above buildings

Babies respond positively to smell of foods experienced in the womb

Babies show positive responses to the smell of foods they were exposed to in the womb after they are born.
Global research
A montage of four pictures showing close ups of newborn babies' faces with different expressions.

Durham’s strengths in space and quantum research focus of German Ambassador’s visit

Our strengths in space and quantum research were the main focus of a visit to Durham University by the German Ambassador to the UK.
Global research
Two men look through a panel into the interior of a large box which contains machinery and wires.

Are We Becoming More Anti-Social?

Dr Thuy-vy T Nguyen is an Associate Professor in our Department of Psychology, and Principal Investigator of the Solitude Lab. Here, she discusses whether people are becoming more anti-social.
Research news
Sky at sunset with a lone person looking out away from the camera in silhouette

The Greenland ice sheet is falling apart – new study

Tom Chudley, a Leverhulme Early Career Fellow in our Department of Geography, shares new research showing how quickly the Greenland ice sheet is melting.
Research news
The Greenland ice sheet as viewed from above

Reimagining the imagination at the world’s largest literary festival

Researchers from our Institute for Medical Humanities have taken our innovative ReaderBank project to the Jaipur Literature Festival in Rajasthan, India.
Global research
Four people standing smiling at the camera
Discover More News

Spotlight on: Professor Claire Horwell - protecting public health during volcanic eruptions

Our Spotlight On series celebrates our academics’ global impact. Professor Claire Horwell is a world-renowned expert on the health hazards of volcanic air pollution.

Professor Claire Horwell pictured outside with foliage and a view of a volcano behind her

Spacecraft regularly burn up in the atmosphere - is this causing harm?

Physics fellow Dr Fionagh Thomson will explore the potential risks of decommissioning satellites in the atmosphere in a project funded by the UK Space Agency. 
Polar stratospheric clouds above buildings

Spotlight on: Professor Philip Goff – challenging the foundations of science through philosophy

Our ‘Spotlight On’ series highlights some of our pioneering researchers who are leading transformative work. Professor Philip Goff from our Department of Philosophy is challenging the long-held quantitative focus of physical science through his work on consciousness.
Black and white image of Professor Philip Goff set against a white background
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Explore our global research

Discover how our research is changing lives around the world using the button below. We also have a static PDF version available.

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Durham University Research

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Thought Leadership

  • Bilingual children with special educational needs may be missing out on support in England

    Johny Daniel, an assistant professor in our School of Education, writes on what can be done to help these students catch up with their peers.
    Research news
    Children sitting in a classroom raise their hands

  • Is Tesla’s sales slump down to Elon Musk?

    In January, sales of Tesla cars slumped across five European countries. Professor Gretchen Larsen in Marketing, Durham University Business School, and Dr James Obiegbu, at Bournemouth University, examine if this is down to the controversies surrounding Elon Musk.
    Global research
    A close up of the rear wing of a black Tesla car as it charges at a red and white Tesla branded charging station.

  • The Power of Storytelling in shaping inclusive Higher Education

    Dr Monika Nangia, Director of Student & Academic Services and Academic Registrar, shares her views on diversity and inclusion in UK higher education leadership, the impact and way forward. Monika has more than two decades of experience in higher education management and is a passionate advocate for diverse voices in higher education leadership positions.
    Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion
    Monika Nangia is pictured at the Palatine Centre, Durham

Bilingual children with special educational needs may be missing out on support in England

Johny Daniel, an assistant professor in our School of Education, writes on what can be done to help these students catch up with their peers.

Research news
Children sitting in a classroom raise their hands

Is Tesla’s sales slump down to Elon Musk?

In January, sales of Tesla cars slumped across five European countries. Professor Gretchen Larsen in Marketing, Durham University Business School, and Dr James Obiegbu, at Bournemouth University, examine if this is down to the controversies surrounding Elon Musk.
Global research
A close up of the rear wing of a black Tesla car as it charges at a red and white Tesla branded charging station.

The Power of Storytelling in shaping inclusive Higher Education

Dr Monika Nangia, Director of Student & Academic Services and Academic Registrar, shares her views on diversity and inclusion in UK higher education leadership, the impact and way forward. Monika has more than two decades of experience in higher education management and is a passionate advocate for diverse voices in higher education leadership positions.
Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion
Monika Nangia is pictured at the Palatine Centre, Durham
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