Our approach to research

Our research network is collaborative, inclusive and global. Together, we are building a world that's fairer, more sustainable, productive and prosperous.

We create new knowledge that our academics and students put into action through innovative research projects and industry partnerships in the locations where we have campuses – in London, Dubai and Mauritius –, in the UK and around the world. 

Research underpins our wide range of disciplines and is a priority for our future at É«¾Û. We have a distinctive research and knowledge exchange culture, with diverse young research talent who take a collaborative approach.

Our research and knowledge exchange contribute to resolving problems in the world around us, in the framework of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals. The impact of our work is nationally and internationally recognised for transforming practice beyond our community, from nanotechnology in cancer treatment to blockchain in the music industry to performance analysis to help elite athletes in competition.

Our three themes

Equity in health and wellbeing

We take action as a global community towards our vision to make healthcare better for those who need it, and we aim to reduce inequalities in people’s care. Beyond healthcare, we aim to improve physical, mental and social health and wellbeing in all parts of society. Our research includes suicide prevention, with partners including Samaritans and the rail industry, which has reduced the number of deaths by suicide and led to changes in practice.

Inclusive enterprise and creativity

We use culture and creativity to enrich the lives of individuals and communities and we contribute to organisations of all types through impactful research and knowledge exchange. We believe that entrepreneurship can have a powerful role in a fair and inclusive future and are proud to educate and support entrepreneurs and creative talents to make their contribution to an equitable future. Take artist and academic Keith Piper, from the School of Arts, who is researching issues of race and the legacies of empire to create a response to a controversial Tate Britain mural.

Sustainable development

We support people locally, nationally, and around the world to protect the environment and make their communities fairer and more sustainable. Made possible through our research and knowledge exchange, our expertise influences economic, social and environmental policy and practice. The work of the Flood Hazard Research Centre helps at risk communities across the UK to avoid flood risk damage and its social and economic impact, giving support to homeowners.