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.
How we designed sign language for climate science
The climate crisis affects everyone. To tackle it, everyone needs to be able to talk about it. A team of deaf scientists and sign linguists are making important conversations about the future of the planet more accessible to the deaf community.
Astronomers can’t agree on how fast the universe is expanding
New approaches are aiming to break the mystery surrounding the expansion of the universe.
Creative approach aids progress in tackling bird flu
Experts are seeking to understand deadly viral infection through proactive development of poultry resistant to disease, and rigorous scientific analysis.
Rewiring how neurodiversity is taught in the classroom
As many as one in five children in the UK are neurodivergent, with the majority attending mainstream education. A major project is improving their experience in school.
Signs help deaf people engage with ocean conservation
Sign language experts are developing 100 new signs, from jellyfish to basking shark, to help deaf people contribute to the future of the oceans.
Guiding the use of AI towards cultural benefit
A consumer backlash to widespread application of AI in the creative industries shows why we need more judicious use of the technology to enrich our lives.
Rover may have found evidence of ancient life on Mars
NASA’s Perseverance rover mission to the red planet has uncovered possible signs of life dating back billions of years.
Recordings reveal underwater soundscapes
Marine environments have a soundtrack of their own, and tuning in could help preserve the health of our oceans.
How data is spinning yarns
A new installation in honour of the UK’s first female medical students combines some of the world's oldest technology with some of the newest
Species respond to challenge of shifting seasons
As warming climates make seasonal changes more unpredictable, some species and food chains show a flexible response.
Navigating a Catch-22: decarbonising energy in Malawi
Experts warn that the nationwide rollout of electrical power could deepen social injustices. However, with smart policymaking, this outcome can be avoided.