Research with impact
Based on our established excellence in discovery science and ambitions for our research, we have three areas where we aim to make a significant difference. These are our research missions, full of stories of how our extraordinary research advances knowledge, breaks barriers and unlocks innovation.
Advancing AI with dinner-plate sized computer chips
New software compatible with large computer chips can advance AI by improving energy efficiency and reducing response delays.
A day in the life: the PhDs informing our climate and…
This year, three PhD students joined a major University of Edinburgh-led programme to help inform efforts to combat climate change and nature loss across Scotland.
Mobilising finance for adaptation and resilience
The next decade will test whether finance can be an instrument of resilience rather than reaction.
More mess please! How a little clutter can protect our crops…
As the climate warms, insect pests multiply and resistance to sprays grows. A little managed mess in fields might be the game changer.
Designing resilience in our health systems
While the whole of the COP30 Action Agenda speaks to a fractured world where the causes, drivers and impacts of climate change are recognised as parts of a much bigger jigsaw of crises.
Will COP30 foster human and social development?
The UN climate summit in Belém, Brazil (COP 30), prioritises action. Instead of striving for new targets or pledges, the focus will be on implementation of commitments already made.
Can COP30’s agenda create change for water security?
Achieving water resilient cities is a significant and urgent challenge given the dual drivers of climate change and urbanisation.
Lessons from searching for every British wildflower
One researcher, an obsessive plant hunter, has created a botanical resource for Britain like no other.
What magnets reveal about climate tipping points
Experiments with magnets reveal why some climate systems collapse suddenly while others shift gradually, offering insight into the warning signs of environmental tipping points.
GPT-5: has AI just plateaued?
Subtle shifts in OpenAI's latest model raise questions about whether AI innovation is still accelerating or reaching its limit.
What is engineering biology? And why is it going to change…
Edinburgh is a world-leader in a discipline that is using biology to upend industrial processes and turning trash into treasure.