Dr Steve Chivasa is part of our Biosciences Department and specialises in understanding how plants respond to stressful environments. Here he discusses a project he’s working on to help farmers in Zimbabwe overcome challenges caused by soil degradation.

Professor Ming Du, from our School of Law, explains investor-state dispute settlements that can challenge national security decisions.

Dr Christopher Cowie, Associate Professor in the Department of Philosophy recently took part in the Being Human Festival, a nationwide festival which engages a wide audience in the breadth of humanities research. He tells us how philosophers can contribute to questions about life in space.

Phillip Horky is Professor of Ancient Philosophy. He has recently been taking part in the Being Human Festival, a nationwide festival celebrating the value of humanities research for all. He tells us about his research into the Cosmos, which he shared with the public at What on Earth is That? A festival event which considered our relationship with the night sky on 17 January at High Force Waterfall and Hotel.

Dr Alison Jobe from our Department of Sociology and Dr Helen Williams of Sunderland University share insights from their upcoming research on women with learning disabilities/autism reporting sexual violence.

Dr Rory McCarthy from our School of Government and International Affairs argues that religion still shapes politics even at a time of Islamist setbacks in North Africa.

Professor Paul Pettitt, from our Department of Archaeology, sheds some light on Neanderthal art.

Professor Simon Hogg from our Department of Engineering discusses why are wind turbines increasing in size at such a rapid rate, and is there a limit to how big they can go?

Giles Gasper, from our History Department, is Professor in High Medieval History. Professor Gasper outlines the importance of food, a shared warm space, and what we have in common with those living in medieval times.

Durham University's Principal of South College, Tim Luckhurst, explains how Britain celebrated Christmas in 1942.

An interview with Christian Harkensee and Rebecca Gowland discussing what the past can reveal about the social forces that shape modern health crises.

Nothing conjures up nostalgic ideas of a wholesome family Christmas more than the idea of loved ones gathering around the piano to sing carols, or indeed voices raised in church in song on Christmas Day. However, Professor Jeremy Dibble, tells us why carols and carol singing haven’t always been seen in such a virtuous light.