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.

A song cycle geared for the long haul

Ronnie KerrApr 5, 20237 min read
A remarkable project that uses opera singing to transform the lives of people affected by long Covid is also creating an inspirational collection of songs.

Beyond the brain

Charlotte StapleyApr 4, 202310 min read
Researchers at the University of Edinburgh are challenging how we think about thinking.

Looking back to the future of Edinburgh’s AI legacy

Rhona CrawfordApr 3, 20239 min read
Edinburgh is the birthplace of AI in Europe. Take a closer look at some of the key discoveries, influential figures, and significant milestones in more than 60 years of computer science and AI research.

15-minute cities: separating reality from conspiracy

Dr Alessia CalafioreMar 3, 20235 min read
The idea of neighbourhoods where all services are within a 15 minute walk is being denounced as "Stalinist" by some protesters. How did city planning become the latest conspiracy theory?

Adjusting for humanity’s fingerprints

Derek MainFeb 2, 20236 min read
Six years ago, Professors Gabi Hegerl and Simon Tett’s work to prove human-caused greenhouse gasses are warming our planet underpinned the 2015 Paris Agreement. Today they argue we still aren’t doing enough to adapt to climate change.

Charging up the road

David LeeFeb 2, 20237 min read
To help the haulage sector meet climate targets the UK's motorways are being electrified. How do you efficiently wire up a complex road network while keeping on trucking?

Seeing the woods

Derek MainFeb 2, 20236 min read
Getting a clear picture of how much living matter is in the world's forests and savannas - key data in managing these vital carbon stores - has always been tricky. Satellite technology is changing that.

Signals from a drowning world

Derek MainFeb 2, 20237 min read
Melting ice sheets and glaciers – and the resulting rising seas - are a startling reminder of the rate of climate change. However, measuring ice loss was an inaccurate science... until Edinburgh experts helped change things.

Picky eater? It could be in your DNA

Dr Nicola PirastuJan 19, 20235 min read
The largest genetic study of our food likes and dislikes sheds new light on people's diet choices.

The first Challenger

Iain Woodhouse and Murray RobertsDec 21, 20229 min read
150 years ago an expedition that became a byword for adventure set sail. It forever changed our relationship with the sea. At its heart was the University of Edinburgh.

Seeing the Universe in a new light

Corin CampbellOct 13, 20228 min read
How did the first galaxies form? What is it like on distant worlds? The most powerful space telescope ever constructed is helping Edinburgh scientists answer some of the biggest questions in the Universe.