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Current Research News

Highest ever temperature recorded in Durham

Durham has recorded its highest ever maximum temperature of 36.9°C.
A view of Durham Cathedral and Castle on a sunny day

First images from new space telescope part-developed in Durham

The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) – which Durham helped to develop and engineer – has captured its first images.
James Webb first deep field image

Uncovering the mystery of the origins of dogs

One of the biggest unanswered questions about human prehistory is where dogs underwent domestication.
Close up of a grey wolf

Encouraging writers to present an accurate view of self-harm

We’ve created new resources designed to help writers present an accurate view of people at risk of self-harm.
A couple holding hands in a comforting way

600,000-year-old finds point to some of Britain’s earliest humans

Early humans were present in Britain between 560,000 and 620,000 years ago, according to new research involving our Department of Geography.
Artist's impression of early humans

University awarded £1.6m to accelerate bright ideas into global opportunities

We have been awarded £1.6m by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) to jumpstart knowledge exchange, translation and commercialisation.
Research

Chronicling over 180 years of Durham’s changing climate

A new book chronicles the weather and climate in Durham over the past 180 years from ice-skating on the River Wear to the City’s hottest day.
A man sits on a bench next to the flooded River Wear

The hidden stories of female Newcastle United fans

The stories of female Newcastle United fans from the 1950s have been revealed as part of a new research project by Durham University.
A group of male and female Newcastle United fans wearing black and white scarves and hats

Give India’s bidi cigarette rollers a voice, researchers say

India’s bidi cigarette workers need to be at the heart of discussions about finding alternatives to working in the tobacco industry.
A bidi cigarette roller at work

Tick saliva could ease chronic pain and itching

We’re working on a new drug based on a protein found in tick saliva that could ease chronic pain and itching in people.
A tick on human skin

Research inspired play challenges stigma of hearing voices

Our research has inspired a new stage play about how we all live with the voices in our heads.
An actor performs a play inspired by Hearing the Voice

One hundred years after his tomb was discovered, Tutankhamun’s afterlife continues

Christina Riggs is a Professor of the History of Visual Culture in our History department and an expert on the history of the Tutankhamun excavation. Here Professor Riggs discusses the enduring interest in Tutankhamun.
Image of Tutankhamun