Research in Focus

At the heart of our research is our commitment to tackling the world’s most pressing challenges, reflected in five key areas of strength: Climate and Biodiversity, Artificial Intelligence and New Technologies, Culture and Creative, Health and Wellbeing, and Social Justice and Addressing Inequalities.

These interconnected themes reflect our ambition to drive innovation, foster inclusion, and create meaningful impact — locally and globally — enriching our students' education and developing the next generation of innovators.

Fledgling filmmakers learn sustainable and inclusive media production

How do you turn an inherently unsustainable global industry with a reputation for less than ethical practices into a more sustainable and responsible enterprise?

'Sensational thinking’ – engaging all senses to design museums for everyone

Professor Hannah Thompson from the Department of Languages, Literatures and Cultures has dedicated the last two years to establishing 'The Sensational Museum', a project designed to improve accessibility in museums.

Is money the best motivator of performance?

A recent study in healthcare is shedding light on whether employees respond more strongly to real-time performance feedback alone or when such feedback is combined with financial incentives - yielding some surprising insights.

Protecting the rights of transgender parents

Dr Suki Finn examines the political, philosophical, and legal aspects of transgender pregnancy and parenting.

Research in 60 seconds: Neutron stars and eggs

Watch theoretical astrophysicist Dr Vanessa Graber explain her research on neutron stars in 60 seconds.

Uncovering the hidden cost of climate change inside the ‘Global Factory’

Researcher Dr Laurie Parsons investigates how extreme heat caused by climate change is impacting workers in the global supply-chain in Cambodia.

Research in 60 seconds: Optimising train timetables with AI

Watch Dr Khuong An Nguyen from the Department of Computer Science explain his research in 60 seconds.

Rethinking what information security means to higher-risk communities

Research by Professor Rikke Bjerg Jensen is helping to redefine how the needs of people in higher-risk contexts are considered when designing security technology.

Research in 60 seconds: Groundwater flooding in urban environments

Watch Dr Jonathan Paul from the Department of Earth Sciences explain his research on flooding in 60 seconds.

Unleashed – protecting nature by keeping dogs’ paws on the path

Many dog owners like to walk their dogs off-lead for at least some of their exercise every week, but what impact does walking a dog have on nature?

Research in 60 seconds: Perception of time

Watch Dr Irena Arslanova from the Department of Psychology explain her research in 60 seconds.

Board game brings generations together

A board game that brings together children and older people in care homes has been developed to help bridge the generation gap between older adults and young people.