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Pioneering Projects

Explore our diverse range of projects, from spin-out creation, research collaborations and supporting innovation. Whether we're tackling net zero challenges, advancing health sciences, or developing new technologies, our case studies showcase the impact and success of businesses and researchers working with us. 

 

90% of research rated 'world-leading' or 'internationally excellent' (UK Research Excellence Framework 2021)
£85 M research awards made to Durham (2022/23)

Towards a better future

Among our scientists, social scientists, business, arts and humanities scholars we have world-leading authorities in their field.

We are one of the top universities in the world, for taking action to address the most pressing environmental, social and governance challenges facing society today. Our researchers are shaping the world, from the intimate to the infinite.

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Researchers at Durham University offer technical expertise that cannot be found elsewhere. We have been collaborating closely on a multitude of projects for several years and hope this will continue to be fruitful long into the future.

Dr Hira Virdee
Founder & CEO Lumi Space
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We are a globally outstanding centre of research

Research at Durham brings together the leading minds in their fields who work collaboratively across departments and with our partners to develop new ways of thinking that have a positive impact on societal and global challenges. 

Explore our research playlist

Research Degrees

Whether you’re looking to connect with international industry and business through your work, or the global academic research community, as a postgraduate at Durham you can expect the freedom and facilities to explore what’s important to you.

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UK must increase water availability to meet decarbonisation goals

The UK must significantly increase water availability to meet its decarbonisation goals, according to new research led by our Department of Engineering and involving our Department of Earth Sciences.
The Humber Suspension Bridge spans over the River Humber.

The new archbishop of Canterbury has already made history – but she has huge challenges ahead

Dr William Crozier, Duns Scotus Assistant Professor in Franciscan Studies, in our Department of Theology and Religion, discusses the challenges facing the new Archbishop of Canterbury.
A wider view of the cloister at Canterbury Cathedral

Law School expert wins prestigious award for research on freedom of expression

Dr Ge Chen has won an international honour for his research into freedom of expression with a focus on China.
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Durham University to co-chair the Japan-UK RENKEI research consortium

We are strengthening our research links with Japan with the appointment of Professor Claire O’Malley as the UK co-chair of the Japan-UK RENKEI consortium.
A row of people sitting behind tables and signing documents. A banner behind them reads RENKEI.

Durham University to help deliver AI Growth Zone

Durham University will take a key role in delivering a new AI Growth Zone in North East England – an initiative that promises to create thousands of jobs.
Two women and a man looking at designs on a board on a wall

Church of England must do more to recognise dangers of spiritual authority

The Church of England must do more to create a culture in which spiritual authority is handled safely, according to a new report from Durham University.
Four lit candles with stained glass window in the background.

UK must increase water availability to meet decarbonisation goals

The UK must significantly increase water availability to meet its decarbonisation goals, according to new research led by our Department of Engineering and involving our Department of Earth Sciences.
The Humber Suspension Bridge spans over the River Humber.

Church of England must do more to recognise dangers of spiritual authority

The Church of England must do more to create a culture in which spiritual authority is handled safely, according to a new report from Durham University.
Four lit candles with stained glass window in the background.

Explore policies, governance and our staff directory

We develop opportunities for businesses to: link with policymakers, understand our research governance and connect with academic researchers.

  • Policy Hub

    We support knowledge exchange activities, develop networks and projects, and provide policy and impact training.
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  • Ethics and Governance

    Research ethics is a key part of research integrity, which aims to safeguard the interests and well-being of those impacted by the research.
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  • Research Staff Directory

    Connect with our academic researchers, or click below to contact our business support team.
    Business people sitting round a table at a meeting

Policy Hub

We support knowledge exchange activities, develop networks and projects, and provide policy and impact training.
Policy written in lettered cubes

Ethics and Governance

Research ethics is a key part of research integrity, which aims to safeguard the interests and well-being of those impacted by the research.
paper people dancing around glass globe

Research Staff Directory

Connect with our academic researchers, or click below to contact our business support team.
Business people sitting round a table at a meeting

Thought Leadership

Specialised teachers can make mainstream schools better for children with special educational needs

Dr Johny Daniel, Associate Professor in our School of Education, explores what the UK government could do to ensure that children with special educational needs receive the support they need in mainstream schools.
A female teacher in a classroom leaning over a schoolboy to turn a page of a book as they both smile

Plants are incredibly sensitive – what we learned about their response system could help protect humans

Dr Miguel de Lucas and his team has built a detailed cell‑by‑cell map showing how plants use post‑translational modifications, especially sumoylation, to detect and respond to stresses such as drought, salinity or pathogens.
Plants

Upcoming events

Absence-Presence of Durham’s Black History Walking Tour Amidst Our Working Lives

Monday 20 October 2025 - Monday 20 October 2025
12:30 PM to 4:30 PM
Galilee Chapel, Durham Cathedral, and University College (Castle)
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Adaptive and Creative Ageing: Insights from Expert Performers and Everyday Practices

Monday 20 October 2025 - Monday 20 October 2025
1:00 PM to 2:00 PM
Cosin's Hall, Seminar Room, Palace Green
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Measurement Heretics: A Reading Group in Human(e) Sciences

Tuesday 21 October 2025 - Tuesday 21 October 2025
3:30 PM to 5:00 PM
Online
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Durham Research Methods Cafe - Next Session

Wednesday 22 October 2025 - Wednesday 22 October 2025
11:30 AM to 1:00 PM
Nine DTP/DRMC Hub. 1st Floor, Arthur Holmes Building. Left of the Calman Learning Centre, side entrance. Signposted DRMC/Nine DTP.
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Research and Innovation Services

Research and Innovation Services
Durham University,
Boldon House,
Wheatlands Way,
Pity Me,
Durham,
DH1 5FA.

E: business.gateway@durham.ac.uk