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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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The abolition myth: how slavery survived by changing shape

Slavery did not end with abolitionism in the 19th century. Instead it was rebuilt, again and again, into new forms of unfree labour that still shape the world today

Global research
Remains of the Monte Alegre plantation, Barra do Piraí, Brazil

At the forefront of international energy and climate research

Our researchers are leading on international energy and climate research – from monitoring vulnerable ice sheets to shaping future energy policy.
Global research
A montage of three images, from left to right, showing offshore wind turbines, an ice sheet and a person's hands holding a globe of the world.

AI tool helps historians converse with the ancient world

Researchers at Durham University have collaborated with Google DeepMind on a new AI-powered research tool designed to analyse ancient Greek and Latin inscriptions.
Research news
A lead ancient plaque with an inscription from Dodona in Greece.

Understanding mental health difficulties in pupils with SEND

A major new study will provide the first national picture of how often pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) are referred for, and diagnosed with, mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety and stress-related disorders.
Research news
School pupils wearing red school uniform writing at desks in a classroom.

Durham physicists part of mission to chart space and time

Our physicists are part of one of the most ambitious studies of the Universe ever undertaken.
Global research
A field of stars set against a black background.

Ancient rock carvings suggest Bronze Age maritime links across Europe

Bronze Age rock carvings suggest communities across Europe were far more connected than previously thought.
Research news
Photograph of ‘Triangular boat’ petroglyph in the panel 18 of Laje da Churra, North Portugal. Photo credit: Ana M. Bettencourt.

The Arctic: understanding and stewarding our planet’s frozen north

Our research is advancing understanding of the Arctic, and how we might better protect this crucial part of our planet.
Global research
A small town of brightly coloured wooden houses stands in a frozen landscape
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AI tool helps historians converse with the ancient world

Researchers at Durham University have collaborated with Google DeepMind on a new AI-powered research tool designed to analyse ancient Greek and Latin inscriptions.

A lead ancient plaque with an inscription from Dodona in Greece.

Understanding mental health difficulties in pupils with SEND

A major new study will provide the first national picture of how often pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) are referred for, and diagnosed with, mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety and stress-related disorders.
School pupils wearing red school uniform writing at desks in a classroom.

Ancient rock carvings suggest Bronze Age maritime links across Europe

Bronze Age rock carvings suggest communities across Europe were far more connected than previously thought.
Photograph of ‘Triangular boat’ petroglyph in the panel 18 of Laje da Churra, North Portugal. Photo credit: Ana M. Bettencourt.
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Durham University Research

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Thought Leadership

How Iran used Ali Khamenei’s funeral as a political and diplomatic tool

In this article, Dr Marzieh Kouhi-Esfahani, from our School of Government and International Affairs, examines how the funeral of former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei became a significant political and diplomatic event, reflecting Iran's domestic priorities and international positioning.

Global research
A huge crowd gathered in Qom for the funeral of Ali Khamenei on July 7. Iranian Supreme Leader Office / EPA

Medieval plague survivors left us graffiti, court records and a lesson for COVID

Memories of pandemics are often contentious. They can be disputed, uncomfortable and politically charged. Dr Alex Brown from our Department of History and our Institute of Medieval and Early Modern Studies examines how the Black Death was chronicled in medieval times and explores how this history can inform commemorations of modern pandemics.
Research news
An old gravestone with a skull and crossbones engraved in it.

UK politicians don’t want to talk about sportswashing

Dr Stephen Crossley from our Department of Sociology explores why UK politicians appear so reluctant to talk about sportswashing.
Research news
A sports crowd wearing red T-shirts cheering with arms in the air.
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