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Research

Research at the University of York

Curiosity-driven, action-oriented research.

At York, our research focuses on real-world impact. This is a place where brave and independent minds work together towards a better future for all.

Since we opened our doors in the early 1960s, we’ve put people and society at the heart of our work. 

Our research addresses societal inequalities, moves us towards a sustainable future and finds better ways to ensure technology is safe and trusted. We seek new treatments for physical illness and greater understanding of mental health issues. And we explore our heritage to better understand human experience in the past, present and future. 

Today, our commitment to driving positive change through research and innovation is stronger than ever.

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Want to stay connected with the University of York's research community? Our monthly research newsletter features a curated mix of news, events, and success stories delivered straight to your inbox.

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From pioneering research to transform the bioeconomy, to ensuring safe and trusted technologies and harnessing the potential of digital creativities, our researchers work across academic disciplines and forge trusted partnerships which drive positive change and opportunity for all.

Professor Sarah Thompson MBE, Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Research.

Research excellence
Awarded joint 10th in the Times Higher Education ranking of the Research Excellence Framework 2021.
Academic performance
York is one of the world’s leading research-intensive universities.
Global impact
We work with individuals and communities around the world to help shape a better future for all.

Our research expertise

Our world-leading interdisciplinary research centres, schools and initiatives enable us to work across academic boundaries and in partnership to support innovation, economic growth and create new knowledge.

Discover our departments and centres

The Institute for Safe Autonomy

The first research institute in the UK focusing on the safety of autonomous systems and robotics.

NIHR School for Social Care Research

The national home of research excellence for adult social care.

York Biomedical Research Institute

Advancing discoveries in biomedical science to positively impact health and wellbeing.

Research news

News

Cutting emissions is not the only way to save lives from air pollution, according to new study

7 April 2026

Reducing population vulnerability is just as critical as cutting toxic air emissions for saving lives, according to the findings of a new study.

News

University of York scientists solve 40-year-old biological mystery behind Sleeping Sickness

31 March 2026

Scientists at the University of York have cracked a 40-year-old biological cold case by revealing how the parasite that causes Sleeping Sickness stays one step ahead of the human immune system.

News

Hunter-gatherers cooked complex plant and meat dishes earlier than previously suggested, study shows

26 March 2026

Early hunter-gatherers across Northern and Eastern Europe developed complex culinary tastes and were expert botanists and creative cooks, a new study has revealed.

News

Double trouble: Study reveals early developmental gaps in twins compared to siblings

25 March 2026

Twins often don't pick up new skills quite as fast as single-born children in their early years, according to the findings of a new study

Research Features

Explore the stories behind our remarkable research community at York and discover what drives our researchers towards a better world. 

Yvonne Birks - Making real change through social care research

Helen Cowie - Uncovering the animal voice of the past

Mariana Lopez - Combining sound design and wellbeing

Sara de Jong - Representing hidden voices from Afghanistan

Collaborating with industry

World-leading research is happening here in the heart of Yorkshire, where place-based innovation drives societal and economic transformation. 

We can help your business be a part of it, whatever your needs. Access cutting-edge facilities to support for local businesses and training in York, the UK’s top-rated city for good growth.

Collaborate with us

Rail networks

York was at the heart of the rail revolution in the 1800s. Now we're driving the future of intelligent rail systems through new research partnerships.

CoSTAR LiveLab

A groundbreaking creative industries research and development facility which is redefining the future of live performance.

BioYorkshire

An innovative public-private partnership harnessing York and North Yorkshire’s unique capabilities in the bioeconomy.

Defence

Our researchers are developing new partnerships with the UK defence and security sector.
A group of researchers take part in a fun team exercise

Research culture

Our Research Culture Action Plan sets out our sector-leading approach to building a strong research culture together.

From Postgraduate researchers to research leaders, we equip our staff with the skills, expertise and environment needed to nurture a thriving and vibrant research community.

Research degrees and career development

Explore our research degrees and fellowships, or find your new research role at York, with support from York Graduate Research School.

Postgraduate research degrees

Find a fellowship

Browse research jobs

Our impact
Explore case studies from researchers working with communities around the world towards positive change.
Read case studies
Research events
Join us to explore our innovative and thought-provoking research.
Learn more
Find an expert
Search for research and explore connections.
Find our researchers
Research newsletter
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