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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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Study on domestic abuse of older people sheds light on risk factors

New research has found that older people are more likely to be abused by their partners than by a family member.

Research news
Close up of two older women's hands clasping each other.

People with health issues denied medication in police custody

People in police custody with health issues are regularly put at risk because medication is delayed or unavailable.
Research news
Old-fashioned police lantern sign

New study links wealth inequality and human sustainability across millennia

Wealth inequality has been linked to human sustainability for over 10,000 years. That’s according to a new study led by Professor Dan Lawrence from our Archaeology department.
Global research
Leafy, residential area with large houses backing onto an area of compact, more deprived housing

Two early career bioscientists will tackle health challenges with prestigious award

Dr Ting-Yu Lin of our Department of Biosciences and Dr Francesco Boselli of our Departments of Biosciences and Engineering have each been granted a Springboard Award to help support their research in biomedical sciences.
Research news
Two Durham University bioscientists pose for portraits

How graduates are driving economic growth

A new report reveals the critical role that university graduates play in driving growth, including by starting their own businesses.
Business and Partnerships
Staff in high-visibility jackets laying asphalt on a road

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.
Global research
This image shows examples of galaxies in different shapes, all captured by Euclid during its first observations of the Deep Field areas

‘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.
Global research
Woman smiling, looking off camera to right
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Study on domestic abuse of older people sheds light on risk factors

New research has found that older people are more likely to be abused by their partners than by a family member.

Close up of two older women's hands clasping each other.

People with health issues denied medication in police custody

People in police custody with health issues are regularly put at risk because medication is delayed or unavailable.
Old-fashioned police lantern sign

Two early career bioscientists will tackle health challenges with prestigious award

Dr Ting-Yu Lin of our Department of Biosciences and Dr Francesco Boselli of our Departments of Biosciences and Engineering have each been granted a Springboard Award to help support their research in biomedical sciences.
Two Durham University bioscientists pose for portraits
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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

Our ape cousins show us empathy has deep evolutionary roots – new research

Dr Jake Brooker and Professor Zanna Clay of the Department of Psychology cover their research showing the softer side of apes.

Research news
Two adult apes sit on grass holding infant apes

Reimagining the Future of the Health Workforce

Professor of Sociology Brian Castellani delivered an opening address at the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Europe Symposium on Health Workforce Modelling for Action. The theme of the symposium was ‘Workforce Futures Reimagined’ and took place in Copenhagen on 28-30 April.
Global research
Professor Castellani is pictured at the WHO Symposium standing in front of a banner

Jordan joins regional push to sideline Islamist opposition

Associate Professor in Politics and Islam Rory McCarthy responds to news of Jordan's crackdown on the Islamist opposition.
Research news
The flag of Jordan flies in front of a blue sky
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