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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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Research Highlights newsletter

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

Researchers use robotics to find potential new antibiotic among hundreds of metal complexes

23 December 2025

Researchers have used a cutting-edge robotic system capable of synthesising hundreds of metal complexes to develop a possible antibiotic candidate - offering fresh hope in the global fight against drug-resistant infections.

News

Text messages could be key to helping TB patients quit smoking, according to study

22 December 2025

Tuberculosis (TB) patients who smoke will recover far more quickly if they can quit - and help could come from their mobile phones, according to new research.

News

Teenage niece may have shaped Jane Austen’s Persuasion, new study suggests

22 December 2025

Jane Austen’s teenage niece may have inspired one of the most memorable comic details in her novel Persuasion, according to new research that reshapes what we know about the novelist’s creative process.

News

Project to examine how AI is changing the way science is done

17 December 2025

A new research project is set to investigate how artificial intelligence is extending and transforming the abilities that scientists use to investigate the world.

Research Journeys

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.
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.
Find out more
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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