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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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Melsonby Hoard saved for the nation

One of the UK’s largest and most important Iron Age finds – excavated by archaeologists at Durham University – has been saved for the nation.

Global research
Close up of on ornate iron age artefact being held in a person's hands.

Working together with people in secure mental health units to stay healthy

We’re collaborating with the NHS to empower people in secure mental health units get the exercise that they need to stay healthy.
Research news
Looking down a hospital ward.

Milky Way could be teeming with more satellite galaxies than previously thought

The Milky Way could have many more satellite galaxies than scientists have previously been able to predict or observe.
Global research
A simulation showing a bright white galaxy at the centre, surrounded by fainter galaxies, against a black backdrop.

Working to answer the ultimate question – are we alone in the Universe?

Dr Cyril Bourgenot from our Centre for Advanced Instrumentation is part of a team developing cutting-edge technology to enable astronomers to look deeper into the Universe. He is presenting this work as part of the Royal Astronomical Society’s National Astronomy Meeting 2025, which is being hosted by Durham University this week. Here, Cyril tells us about his work and how it could help answer the ultimate astronomical question – is there life elsewhere.
Global research
Keck Observatory in Hawaii, taken at night with lasers shining into the sky

National Astronomy Meeting 2025 - exploring Durham’s rich astronomical research

Almost a thousand of the world’s top space scientists will visit Durham University next week (7 to 11 July) as we host the UK’s National Astronomy Meeting (NAM) 2025.
Global research
Two people looking up at a dark, starry sky.

Using GPS trackers to study red deer behaviour in Scotland

Researchers are tracking the movement of red deer in the Highlands of Scotland using GPS collars as part of a new project.
Research news
Two red deer

Pioneering collaboration will create new Green Corridors in the North East

We’re part of a collaboration to create three new ‘Green Corridors’ in the North East of England, transforming urban, suburban, and rural areas across the region.
Research news
River Wear in the foreground flowing past the remains of Finchale Priory in County Durham
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Working together with people in secure mental health units to stay healthy

We’re collaborating with the NHS to empower people in secure mental health units get the exercise that they need to stay healthy.

Looking down a hospital ward.

Using GPS trackers to study red deer behaviour in Scotland

Researchers are tracking the movement of red deer in the Highlands of Scotland using GPS collars as part of a new project.
Two red deer

Pioneering collaboration will create new Green Corridors in the North East

We’re part of a collaboration to create three new ‘Green Corridors’ in the North East of England, transforming urban, suburban, and rural areas across the region.
River Wear in the foreground flowing past the remains of Finchale Priory in County Durham
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Thought Leadership

Women football players as role models – an uneven playing field?

All eyes have been on women’s football, and on the England team as the winners of the UEFA Women’s Euros in Switzerland. The players are often held up as role models but is the pressure to inspire greater on women compared to men? Professor Stacey Pope from our Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences has looked into this.

Research news
England footballer Leah Williamson talking at a press conference

Bold but pragmatic: how we harness Northern innovation without hurting the Golden Triangle

A new report from the Northern Powerhouse Partnership shines a spotlight on the North of England’s innovation ecosystem, exploring its role in driving productivity and unlocking future economic potential. The report is co-authored by Professor Kieran Fernandes, Executive Dean of Durham Business School. Here he delves into how the region can harness its innovation strengths to fuel long-term growth and prosperity.
Business School news
Professor Kieran Fernandes is pictured on a white background

This tropical plant builds isolated ‘apartments’ to prevent battles among the aggressive ant tenants it relies on for survival

Professor Guillaume Chomicki from our Biosciences department reveals that some tropical plants in Fiji build special structures to house ants which is cleverly designed to stop them from fighting.
Research news
Tropical plants
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