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Current Research News

The abolition myth: how slavery survived by changing shape

Slavery did not end with abolitionism in the 19th century. Instead it was rebuilt, again and again, into new forms of unfree labour that still shape the world today
Remains of the Monte Alegre plantation, Barra do Piraí, Brazil

At the forefront of international energy and climate research

Our researchers are leading on international energy and climate research – from monitoring vulnerable ice sheets to shaping future energy policy.
A montage of three images, from left to right, showing offshore wind turbines, an ice sheet and a person's hands holding a globe of the world.

AI tool helps historians converse with the ancient world

Researchers at Durham University have collaborated with Google DeepMind on a new AI-powered research tool designed to analyse ancient Greek and Latin inscriptions.
A lead ancient plaque with an inscription from Dodona in Greece.

Understanding mental health difficulties in pupils with SEND

A major new study will provide the first national picture of how often pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) are referred for, and diagnosed with, mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety and stress-related disorders.
School pupils wearing red school uniform writing at desks in a classroom.

Durham physicists part of mission to chart space and time

Our physicists are part of one of the most ambitious studies of the Universe ever undertaken.
A field of stars set against a black background.

Ancient rock carvings suggest Bronze Age maritime links across Europe

Bronze Age rock carvings suggest communities across Europe were far more connected than previously thought.
Photograph of ‘Triangular boat’ petroglyph in the panel 18 of Laje da Churra, North Portugal. Photo credit: Ana M. Bettencourt.

The Arctic: understanding and stewarding our planet’s frozen north

Our research is advancing understanding of the Arctic, and how we might better protect this crucial part of our planet.
A small town of brightly coloured wooden houses stands in a frozen landscape

Exploring the hidden histories of the female body

For many women, childbirth is transformative. For Dr Erin Maglaque from our Department of History, it also sparked an exploration into how history has shaped understanding, expectation and perceptions of the female body.
Seventeenth century illustrations of women undertaking what were considered feminine occupations such as cooking, sewing and weaving

Baby slings: what the evidence says about benefits, risks and safe use

Baby slings and carriers are popular among new parents, but is there enough trusted guidance available on how to use them safely? PhD student, Sophie Lovell-Kennedy, has delved into the evidence.
Newborn baby asleep on a bed.

Dr Veronica Heney to shed new light on self-harm and culture

Dr Veronica Heney from our Institute for Medical Humanities and Department of Sociology has been awarded a Wellcome Early Career Award to re-configure understandings of self-harm.
Veronica Heney headshot

Knighthood for world-leading cosmologist Professor Carlos Frenk

Professor Carlos Frenk – who is behind one of the foremost theories of the evolution of the Universe – has been knighted in The King’s Birthday Honours.
A man with white hair and glasses, wearing a cream linen jacket and blue shirt smiles at the camera

Parents need better guidance on how to use baby carriers safely

New parents receive little guidance on how to use a baby sling or carrier safely, according to new research.
Baby asleep in a sling
4 students in lab coats in a laboratory

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