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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
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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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Helping stroke survivors with visual perception problems

A new 15-minute tool to screen stroke survivors for visual perception problems has been launched by researchers from Durham and Oxford universities.

Research news
Two people sitting at a table pointing at a page in the stroke screening booklet.

Tiny changes in gene expression can lead to big differences in eye size

We’re part of an international team of scientists which has discovered that tiny changes in the timing of the expression of a single gene can lead to big differences in eye size.
Global research
A close up of a fly's eye. The is red and you can see the hexagonal components of the eye.

Two Durham geologists earn lifetime achievement awards 

The Geological Society of London has recognised Professor David Selby and Dr Richard Brown for their contributions to the field of earth science.
Research news
Two Durham geologists in the field

Spotlight on: Professor Claire Horwell - protecting public health during volcanic eruptions

Our Spotlight On series celebrates our academics’ global impact. Professor Claire Horwell is a world-renowned expert on the health hazards of volcanic air pollution.
Research news
Professor Claire Horwell pictured outside with foliage and a view of a volcano behind her

Spacecraft regularly burn up in the atmosphere - is this causing harm?

Physics fellow Dr Fionagh Thomson will explore the potential risks of decommissioning satellites in the atmosphere in a project funded by the UK Space Agency. 
Research news
Polar stratospheric clouds above buildings

Babies respond positively to smell of foods experienced in the womb

Babies show positive responses to the smell of foods they were exposed to in the womb after they are born.
Global research
A montage of four pictures showing close ups of newborn babies' faces with different expressions.

Durham’s strengths in space and quantum research focus of German Ambassador’s visit

Our strengths in space and quantum research were the main focus of a visit to Durham University by the German Ambassador to the UK.
Global research
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Helping stroke survivors with visual perception problems

A new 15-minute tool to screen stroke survivors for visual perception problems has been launched by researchers from Durham and Oxford universities.

Two people sitting at a table pointing at a page in the stroke screening booklet.

Two Durham geologists earn lifetime achievement awards 

The Geological Society of London has recognised Professor David Selby and Dr Richard Brown for their contributions to the field of earth science.
Two Durham geologists in the field

Spotlight on: Professor Claire Horwell - protecting public health during volcanic eruptions

Our Spotlight On series celebrates our academics’ global impact. Professor Claire Horwell is a world-renowned expert on the health hazards of volcanic air pollution.
Professor Claire Horwell pictured outside with foliage and a view of a volcano behind her
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Durham University Research

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Thought Leadership

Why incest porn is more common and harmful than you think

Law professor Clare McGlynn explains why it matters that incest porn has become so popular online, and what can be done about it.

Research news
A man sits in the dark in front of a computer with a glass of wine

Is Labour’s latest immigration policy counterproductive?

The Labour Government recently announced that those arriving by irregular means to the UK, even if they are legitimate refugees, will be barred from ever becoming British citizens. Assistant Professor in Public Policy at the School of Government and International Affairs Omar Hammoud-Gallego argues that this kind of policy will not protect Labour from Reform’s insurgence, while at the same time it won’t solve the problem of irregular migration.
Research news
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Bilingual children with special educational needs may be missing out on support in England

Johny Daniel, an assistant professor in our School of Education, writes on what can be done to help these students catch up with their peers.
Research news
Children sitting in a classroom raise their hands
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