Global Impact

Climate change may have contributed to childhood vitamin D deficiency during England’s Industrial Revolution, according to new research from our Department of Archaeology.

From melting polar ice to climate law and AI, Durham researchers are contributing their expertise to crucial global sustainability discussions at the UN Conference of the Parties, COP31.

Durham University will join leading international research and policy organisations at COP31 to host an official UNFCCC side event exploring how science can drive effective climate mitigation and adaptation.

Prof Elisa Morgera, UN Special Rapporteur on Climate Change and Human Rights and Professor of Global Environmental Law at Durham University, will participate in COP31, where she will champion a human rights-centred approach to climate action and contribute to international discussions on pathways towards a just transition away from fossil fuels.

Dr Toni Williams from our Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences explores the ‘activity trap’ and how fears about losing disability benefits can discourage disabled people from being physically active, drawing on research being led at Durham.

Professor Francis Watson from our Department of Theology and Religion has been awarded a prestigious medal by the British Academy in recognition of his research into the New Testament and early Christianity.

Our archaeologists have uncovered how a border community once sheltered strangers fleeing violence, a stark contrast to the difficult experiences faced by many refugees and people on the move at Europe's borders today.

Durham University’s global connections stood out as the North of England held a historic first trade mission to India.

Professor Guillaume Chomicki from our Department of Biosciences has been awarded a prestigious Philip Leverhulme Prize for his internationally recognised research in evolutionary biology.

Scientists have proposed what they believe is the first method for detecting ‘mirror life’ – a hypothetical form of life made from molecular building blocks that are the mirror image of those found naturally on Earth.

Professor Chris Stokes, from Durham University's Department of Geography, will attend COP31 to share the latest research on glaciers, ice sheets and the growing risks of sea-level rise in a warming world.

Research conducted with neurodivergent young people has inspired the launch of a new toolkit on how to speak with them about co-occurring mental health challenges when they seek support.