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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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Migraine remedies are everywhere on social media, but the evidence needs a closer look

Helping to debunk some myths about migraines, neuroscientist Professor Amanda Ellison talks about everything from caffeine, cold spoons to chips.

Research news
A woman with her hand against her forehead and a pained expression.

The village that sheltered outsiders, and what it means for Europe’s refugees now

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.
Global research
Three people standing on a hill next to a ruin.

New toolkit supports conversations about mental health among neurodivergent young people

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.
Global research
A young woman sits in a chair facing the camera, while talking to a therapist.

Durham joins £5.3m project to develop laser power technology

Researchers in our Centre for Advanced Instrumentation are helping to develop a pioneering laser power system that could keep high-altitude aircraft operating continuously.
Global research
Computer generated image of a ground-based laser beam powering an aircraft

Could the youth protests in South Asia help shape a better future?

Youth protests have become widespread in South Asia in recent times, including in India and Bangladesh. Professor Nayanika Mookherjee from our Anthropology Department explores how the protests could help shape a better future for South Asia.
Research news
A man waving the flag of Bangladesh

£1.7m grant to uncover the secrets of molecular behaviour using robotic chemistry and AI

Using robotic laboratories and AI, our researchers will study molecular behaviour to develop new chemicals and materials more efficiently, thanks to funding worth £1.7m (€2.1m).
Research news
Illustration of molecules

Nolan’s The Odyssey is an emotive meditation on modern moral injury

What does The Odyssey film tell us about the effects of war on soldiers? Dr Brian Powers from our International Centre for Moral Injury shares his thoughts.
Research news
A group of soldiers in camouflage clothing
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Migraine remedies are everywhere on social media, but the evidence needs a closer look

Helping to debunk some myths about migraines, neuroscientist Professor Amanda Ellison talks about everything from caffeine, cold spoons to chips.

A woman with her hand against her forehead and a pained expression.

Dr Daniel P. Jones to imagine new futures for Tourette Syndrome

Dr Daniel P. Jones from our Institute for Medical Humanities and Department of Sociology has been awarded a prestigious Wellcome Early-Career Award to transform understandings of Tourette Syndrome.
Daniel Jones headshot

Could the youth protests in South Asia help shape a better future?

Youth protests have become widespread in South Asia in recent times, including in India and Bangladesh. Professor Nayanika Mookherjee from our Anthropology Department explores how the protests could help shape a better future for South Asia.
A man waving the flag of Bangladesh
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Durham University Research

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Thought Leadership

How to reduce harmful sexual behaviour and protect your kids and their peers

What do we know about young people whose sexual behaviour harms others? And how can we keep them and those around them safe? Together with colleagues in Australia, Emeritus Professor Simon Hackett, of our Centre for Research into Violence and Abuse and our Department of Sociology, examines this issue.

Global research
The back of a young boy walking into a modern school wearing a backpack.

When a bull falls for a donkey: what an unlikely relationship reveals about animal sexuality

What can an unlikely relationship between a bull and a donkey tell us about animal sexuality? Jo Setchell, Professor of Anthropology, explores how unusual examples of animal behaviour can challenge our ideas about sex, relationships and what counts as natural.
Global research
The bull Achille's with male donkey Patroclo pictured in a field under a tree

Medieval monks were early ecologists and left a wealth of knowledge for later generations of gardeners

A poetic horticultural book by a 9th century monk is still inspiring today’s gardeners. Professor Giles Gasper, in our Department of History, explains the important influence medieval monks had on ecology, growing plants for food and medicine, and keeping livestock.
Research news
A photograph of Durham Cathedral and Castle as seen from the Milburngate side of the River Wear. The castle's keep and cathedral's towers can be seen above the tree line against a blue sky with white clouds. The river is in the foreground and is crossed by the stone Framwellgate Bridge.
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