Research with impact

The Universe is full of spin – from the micro whirl of a molecule to the epic revolution of a galaxy. Experts have now identified possibly the largest of them all.

Cows are plentiful in East Africa, yet many children in the region lack the vital nutrients the animals could provide. One researcher is on a mission to tackle hunger by finding out why.

The wealth of marine life and priceless geological features in Scotland's coastal waters are at risk from activities such as fishing and mining. A legal tweak could turn the tide.

Food production is under strain as demand grows, especially in areas buffeted by climate change. Data from satellites – combined with more earthly information – can help feed the world.

Solar lamps provide safe, clean and cheap light in some of the poorest parts of the world, but what happens when they break down? A project in Africa has illuminated how to tackle e-waste.

​​​​​​​Agriculture produces a large share of greenhouse gas emissions, with the methane produced by cattle the worst offender. A canny use of data and genetics could help create a new generation of green cows.

Tidal turbines produce green, cheap and plentiful energy from an abundant source. A new partnership can test in a few months how new designs will fare across decades in raging seas. The data-driven approach could provoke a sea change for the industry.

For decades removing harmful carbon from the atmosphere and storing it safely under the sea was a mere pipe dream. Edinburgh researchers are helping make it a reality.

In 2012, stem cell biologist Dr Tilo Kunath had just finished a public talk about his research on Parkinson’s disease when he was asked a surprising question – “Why aren’t you using smell to detect Parkinson’s?” Nine years on, this simple question has led to ground-breaking research into new ways to detect this devastating disease.

A new partnership is delivering insights into how the coronavirus pandemic has affected people’s income, spending, and saving. The findings will help shape the economic recovery and future financial support schemes, while keeping customers’ data safe and secure.

Speech recognition software developed by Edinburgh researchers is helping to ensure that Scotland’s ancient language has a place in the modern technological landscape.