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News archive: 2020 releases

The work of York scientist inspires children’s story

Posted on Wednesday 19 May 2021

Research led by a University of York scientist is the inspiration behind a new online children’s story.


Study to look at impacts of landfill chemical waste on UK seabirds

Posted on Tuesday 11 May 2021

Scientists at the University of York are to study the effects that chemical pollutants from coastal landfill waste may be having on UK seabirds’ health, reproduction and survival.


Research to identify patients at increased risk of relapse into depression essential

Posted on Wednesday 5 May 2021

Researchers at the University of York are calling for more reliable methods for predicting which patients are at high risk of relapsing into depression following a period of recovery.


Asymptomatic testing available on campus for local residents

Posted on Monday 11 January 2021

The University of York has partnered with the Council to offer asymptomatic testing to eligible York residents.


York awarded £6m to investigate the role food systems play in the health of children and the environment

Posted on Monday 28 December 2020

The University of York has been awarded almost £6m to lead an innovative study which aims to create both healthier future generations and a healthier planet.


Highest levels of microplastics found in molluscs, new study says

Posted on Wednesday 23 December 2020

Mussels, oysters and scallops have the highest levels of microplastic contamination among seafood, a new study reveals.


Less traffic in first lockdown reduced air pollution but caused potentially damaging surface ozone levels to rise

Posted on Friday 18 December 2020

Less traffic on the roads during the first lockdown led to a reduction in air pollution but may have caused potentially damaging surface ozone levels to rise, a new study has revealed.


Digital concert formats to be examined following impact of pandemic

Posted on Thursday 17 December 2020

Researchers at the University of York are examining the effects of digital concerts on music audiences following the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.


York student discovers earliest known Church of England hymn by female composer

Posted on Tuesday 15 December 2020

An MA student from the University of York has discovered the earliest known Church of England anthem composed by a woman.


University of York to support unpublished northern writers

Posted on Tuesday 15 December 2020

The University of York’s Department of English and Related Literature is co-sponsoring a major literary award in the North of England – aimed at supporting the next generation of writers from the region.


Professor Deborah Smith retires after 15-year career at York

Posted on Thursday 10 December 2020

Former Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Research, Professor Deborah Smith, retires from the University of York on 31 December after a successful 15-year career in research and senior management roles at York.


Children with cancer at no greater risk of severe Covid-19 infection, research shows

Posted on Thursday 10 December 2020

Paediatric cancer patients who test positive for Covid-19 do not appear to be at any increased risk of severe Covid-19 infection compared with healthy children, a new study shows.


University of York and CITY College establish new campus in Europe

Posted on Tuesday 8 December 2020

The University of York is to establish a new Europe Campus in Greece after signing a major strategic alliance with CITY College, which will see more than 700 students enrol in autumn 2021.


University of York honours three for their contribution to society

Posted on Tuesday 8 December 2020

Three leading figures from the worlds of sport, music and science will receive honorary degrees from the University of York in the New Year.


Christmas hampers bring festive cheer to care-leavers and estranged students at York

Posted on Friday 4 December 2020

Christmas hampers packed with local produce and gifts will be given to care-leavers and estranged students at the University of York.


No country is immune from the health impacts of climate change, new report says

Posted on Wednesday 2 December 2020

No country will be untouched from the health impacts of climate change, a major new report involving a University of York academic reveals.


Report sheds light on community impact of family businesses

Posted on Thursday 26 November 2020

Researchers at the University of York have provided new insights into the ways UK family businesses work to support their communities.


New modified wheat could help tackle global food shortage

Posted on Tuesday 24 November 2020

Researchers at the University of York have created a new modified wheat variety that increases grain production by up to 12 per cent.


Spotlight on grieving in lockdown for new BBC Arts film

Posted on Tuesday 24 November 2020

Researchers at the University of York have contributed to a BBC short film, reflecting on how social restrictions imposed during the Covid-19 pandemic have affected people’s experiences of grief.


Veterans’ substance use has devastating impact on family members

Posted on Tuesday 24 November 2020

The families of veterans with substance use problems struggle with high levels of isolation and loneliness and experience extreme distress and despair, a new report has revealed.


University to take lease of York’s Guildhall in 2021

Posted on Wednesday 18 November 2020

The University of York is planning to take a 15 year lease of one of York’s most prestigious historic buildings, creating a City centre hub for business, enterprise and events.


Patient data vital in understanding Covid-19 and its mutations

Posted on Monday 16 November 2020

A new study has found 95.5 per cent of current entries in the world’s largest novel coronavirus genome database do not contain relevant patient information — a critical piece of the puzzle to understand how the virus is evolving


Household and agricultural waste utilised in bid to make textile industry ‘greener’

Posted on Monday 16 November 2020

Researchers at the University of York are working with the Royal College of Art in a new £5.4 million project to lessen the environmental impact of the textile industry in the UK.


Children who miss out on baby talk not necessarily disadvantaged by age 11, research suggests

Posted on Thursday 12 November 2020

Babies and toddlers who miss out on high quality early talk and communication at home are not necessarily left at a permanent disadvantage, a new study suggests.


Pandemic report reveals massive hit to the North of England’s health and economy

Posted on Tuesday 10 November 2020

The Coronavirus pandemic has had a disproportionate impact on the North of England – leading to more deaths and greater social and economic hardship than any other region in England, according to a new report.


New report highlights opportunity for York-based business accelerator

Posted on Tuesday 10 November 2020

The University of York has partnered in a report that suggests there is a need for the development of a York-based business accelerator to expand the City’s technology capabilities.


Funding boost for the next generation of environmental scientists

Posted on Tuesday 10 November 2020

The University of York and its partners have secured a new £3.5m Centre for Doctoral Training with funding from the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) to research chemicals in the environment.


University of York hosts Wolfson History Prize 2020 celebration

Posted on Tuesday 10 November 2020

Four of the UK’s top history writers will explore how the past can shine a light on the big issues we face today at a special Wolfson History Prize 2020 celebration hosted by the University of York.


Possible broad spectrum drug treatment for viruses on the horizon

Posted on Friday 6 November 2020

Researchers from the Universities of York and Melbourne have shed new light on how viruses like hepatitis B, dengue and SARS-CoV-2 hijack a cell paving the way for potential anti-viral drugs to stop the virus in its tracks.


York scientist part of team awarded £8m to unravel breakdown of carbohydrates

Posted on Thursday 5 November 2020

A team of scientists - including an academic from the University of York - has been awarded more than £8m (9.1m euros) for a major research programme into how enzymes work on complex sugars.


Metal pollution in British waters may be threatening scallops, study reveals

Posted on Thursday 5 November 2020

Metal pollution from historic mining appears to be weakening scallop shells and threatening marine ecosystems in an area off the coast of the Isle of Man, a major new study suggests.


Funding boost for sugar beet project

Posted on Wednesday 4 November 2020

Scientists at the University of York are developing a low cost, environmentally friendly method of processing sugar beet without the need for major industrial processing plants.


Bronze Age people thrived despite dramatic loss of land due to sea-level rise, new study suggests

Posted on Wednesday 4 November 2020

Bronze Age populations living on the land mass which is now the Isles of Scilly flourished despite losing land to sea-level rise, a new study suggests.


University awards £500k to help students impacted by pandemic

Posted on Friday 30 October 2020

More than 800 students have received financial support totalling over £500,000 from the University’s Emergency Student Support Fund - launched in response to the coronavirus pandemic.


Researchers enhance audio description for people with sight loss

Posted on Thursday 29 October 2020

Researchers have used new techniques to make films more accessible to visually impaired audiences.


Urgent need to provide increased support for low income families during the pandemic, new report says

Posted on Thursday 22 October 2020

The benefits system is unable to meet the rising costs incurred by families as a result of the Coronavirus pandemic, new research says.


Study reveals role of sleep deprivation in unwanted thoughts

Posted on Wednesday 21 October 2020

Lack of sleep significantly impairs our ability to stop unwanted and unpleasant thoughts from entering our mind, a new study reveals.


Former Education Minister on campus to see our work on social mobility

Posted on Thursday 15 October 2020

Former Cabinet minister Justine Greening has visited the University of York to hear more about our work to promote social mobility across the institution.


Media statement: Joseph McKeown

Posted on Monday 12 October 2020

There have been media reports about a former student, Joseph McKeown, who was jailed in 2019. The University of York has issued the following statement.


Research pinpoints major drivers of tobacco epidemic among teens in South Asia

Posted on Monday 12 October 2020

Advertising on TV and online, being offered free tobacco products and exposure to smoking in public places are the biggest drivers of tobacco use among teens in South Asia, a new study suggests.


York to lead a national study on the impact of Covid-19 on mental ill-health under £2M funding announcement

Posted on Saturday 10 October 2020

The impact of the Covid-19 lockdown on people with severe mental health illnesses is now being studied by researchers at the University of York in partnership with mental health provider, Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust (TEWV).


Quiet Place Book Club: Books for every time of need

Posted on Friday 9 October 2020

The University of York’s Department of English and Related Literature is hosting virtual book club meetings where literature lovers from around the world can discuss books together.


University partners with Morrisons to support self-isolating students

Posted on Thursday 8 October 2020

The University of York has partnered with the supermarket chain, Morrisons, on a hotline for food deliveries to students who are self-isolating during the coronavirus pandemic.


Potential Covid-19 vaccines not affected by dominant “G-Strain”

Posted on Thursday 8 October 2020

Vaccines currently being developed for Covid-19 should not be affected by recent mutations in the virus, according to a new study involving a University of York virologist.


Scientists see the light: new solar panel design could lead to wider use of renewable energy

Posted on Thursday 8 October 2020

Designing solar panels in checkerboard lines increases their ability to absorb light by 125 per cent, a new study says.


Nature should be at heart of economy, say researchers

Posted on Tuesday 6 October 2020

A new study, published by the European Forest Institute, calls for collective action to put nature at the heart of the economy and set the world on a sustainable path.


Transition to low carbon economy must be inclusive, say researchers

Posted on Monday 5 October 2020

The success of measures aimed at reducing the impact of climate change depend greatly on place, time and social contexts, according to a new policy briefing involving a University of York academic.


Conservationists may be forced to relocate cold-loving butterflies over next 50 years, study reveals

Posted on Sunday 4 October 2020

Some of Europe’s native butterflies may have to be moved to colder climes if they are to survive global warming, a new study suggests.


Coronavirus testing centre opens on University campus

Posted on Friday 2 October 2020

The University of York is the location of a new coronavirus testing facility for the City of York.


Having pets linked to maintaining better mental health and reducing loneliness during lockdown, research shows

Posted on Friday 25 September 2020

Sharing a home with a pet appeared to act as a buffer against psychological stress during lockdown, a new survey shows.


York recognised as a University of Sanctuary

Posted on Friday 25 September 2020

The University of York has achieved a 'University of Sanctuary' award in recognition of its sector-leading efforts to expand access for refugee and asylum seekers.


New book of poetry reflects on the Coronavirus crisis

Posted on Tuesday 22 September 2020

A book of poetry capturing the mood and emotions of people caught up in the Coronavirus pandemic has been published thanks to a University of York professor.


University placed in top 20 in Sunday Times Good University Guide

Posted on Friday 18 September 2020

The University of York has been placed in the top 20 in the 2021 Sunday Times Good University Guide.


Universities Minister visits York campus ahead of new term

Posted on Thursday 17 September 2020

Universities Minister Michelle Donelan MP visited the University of York today (Thursday 17 Sept) to see some of the measures we are taking to make our campus Covid-safe.


Increase in alcohol-industry funded research is a cause for concern, study suggests

Posted on Thursday 17 September 2020

The alcohol industry is increasingly funding academic research into the impacts of alcohol consumption – with some studies making claims about the health benefits of alcohol, new research suggests.


Ambitious green revolution is launched to kick-start the region’s post-Covid economy

Posted on Wednesday 16 September 2020

A 10-year plan to transform the region into the UK hub for green innovation and enterprise has been launched by the University of York and a consortium of partners.


Research shows private industry could show the way in shaping Covid-19 policy

Posted on Monday 14 September 2020

Organisations could improve the transparency and accountability of COVID-19 policy making processes by learning from safety-critical industries like aviation, a new paper shows.


Environmental campaigner Naomi Klein launches new series of York Ideas events

Posted on Monday 14 September 2020

Environmental writer and activist Naomi Klein will launch this year’s York Ideas autumn events series at the University of York.


Drug for common liver condition may be effective treatment for dementia and motorneuron disease, study suggests

Posted on Monday 14 September 2020

A drug used to treat cirrhosis of the liver may be an effective treatment for a form of Dementia and motorneuron disease, scientists have discovered.


Joint statement on how the City is working to ensure the safe return of students

Posted on Monday 14 September 2020

This is a joint statement from the vice-chancellors of the universities of York and York St John and the principals of Askham Bryan College and York College on our shared commitment to ensure the safe return of students to our City.


E-scooter trial gets green light to launch at university campus

Posted on Friday 11 September 2020

E-scooters will be available for use from the University of York as part of a pilot programme offering commuters a sustainable alternative to public transport during the pandemic.


York moves up Guardian League Table

Posted on Tuesday 8 September 2020

The University of York has risen four places in the 2021 Guardian University rankings.


Financial backing for York student and his mobile app

Posted on Tuesday 1 September 2020

A University of York student has secured financial backing for his mobile payment platform.


Scientists join forces to address key unanswered questions about immunity and COVID-19

Posted on Friday 28 August 2020

UK Scientists are launching a major new project to answer key questions on how the immune system interacts with COVID-19, in order to develop better treatments, diagnostics and vaccines.


From the Neolithic to the modern day - York’s rich history revealed during major archaeological dig

Posted on Wednesday 26 August 2020

The results of a major archaeological dig – which included the discovery of a 2,500-year-old brain - on what is now the University of York’s Campus East have been published.


Criminal landlords subject tenants to illegal eviction, violence and exploitation, new report says

Posted on Monday 24 August 2020

Criminal landlords are subjecting tenants to financial exploitation, illegal eviction and violence, a major new report on the UK’s private rented sector reveals.


Big mammals at higher risk of extinction in world’s poorest countries, study reveals

Posted on Monday 24 August 2020

Big mammals such as elephants, rhinos and primates are at highest risk of extinction in the national parks and nature reserves of the world’s poorest countries, a new global review has found.


Earliest art in British Isles discovered in Jersey

Posted on Wednesday 19 August 2020

Prehistoric people in the British Isles were creating artistic designs on rock as early as 15,000 years ago, a study has discovered.


Global deaths due to smokeless tobacco are up by a third, according to new study

Posted on Thursday 13 August 2020

The number of deaths globally due to smokeless tobacco has gone up by a third in 7 years to an estimated 350,000 people, a new study suggests.


COVID recovery choices shape future climate

Posted on Friday 7 August 2020

A post-lockdown economic recovery plan that incorporates and emphasises climate-friendly choices could help significantly in the battle against global warming, according to a new study.


Scientists discover secret behind Earth’s biodiversity hotspots

Posted on Monday 3 August 2020

Researchers have discovered why the tropics and a handful of other areas across the globe have become the most biodiverse places on the planet.


Poverty is the most significant obstacle to happiness and well-being for children in England, report finds

Posted on Monday 3 August 2020

The majority of children in England are very happy with their lives, but a significant number are living in poverty and deeply unhappy, a major survey reveals


Dramatic decline in reef sharks, new global study shows

Posted on Monday 27 July 2020

Sharks are virtually absent from many of the world's coral reefs, according to a major new study involving the University of York.


Life in the pits: scientists identify the key enzyme behind BO

Posted on Monday 27 July 2020

Scientists have discovered a unique enzyme responsible for the pungent characteristic smell we call body odour or BO.


Master’s degree loan scheme boosts inclusivity, study finds

Posted on Thursday 23 July 2020

A loan scheme has enabled more graduates from disadvantaged backgrounds to progress onto studying for a masters, a major new study has found.


York historians call for review of UK citizenship test

Posted on Wednesday 22 July 2020

University of York historians join academics in calling for a review of “misleading and false” official handbook.


Scientists discover how immune cells mobilise to fight infection

Posted on Wednesday 22 July 2020

Scientists have shed light on how immune cells navigate to the lymph nodes, where they help to fight off harmful bacteria and viruses.


Blackbaud response

Posted on Tuesday 21 July 2020

Information relating to a data security incident with a third-party service provider of the University of York.


York tops Russell Group for academic support for students

Posted on Wednesday 15 July 2020

The University of York leads the way for academic support in the Russell Group of research-intensive universities, according to the latest National Student Survey.


Mental health staff lack knowledge to meet the religious and cultural needs of BAME inpatients, study finds

Posted on Wednesday 15 July 2020

Some hospital staff lack the knowledge to meet the religious and cultural needs of black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) inpatients on mental health wards, a new study shows.


Study suggests students from lower socio-economic backgrounds need higher A-level grades to attend top UK law schools

Posted on Wednesday 15 July 2020

Students from lower socio-economic backgrounds are more likely than their peers to need higher predicted grades to secure a place at one of the UK’s top law schools, a study has revealed.


Links between video games and gambling run deeper than previously thought, study reveals

Posted on Tuesday 14 July 2020

A range of video game practices have potentially dangerous links to problem gambling, a study has revealed.


New project to document the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on low income families

Posted on Tuesday 14 July 2020

A new national project examining the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on low income families has been launched.


Tackle climate change and reap economic benefits, new report says

Posted on Monday 13 July 2020

UN climate targets outlined in the Paris Agreement to keep global heating below two degrees Celsius make economic sense, a new study reveals.


Chemical offers new hope of finding treatments for neglected tropical diseases

Posted on Monday 13 July 2020

Scientists say they are a step closer to developing a drug to kill the trypanosome parasite that causes human African trypanosomiasis, otherwise known as sleeping sickness, paving the way for a potential cure.


Post lockdown traffic getting back to normal but air remains cleaner as congestion is down, new research suggests

Posted on Friday 10 July 2020

Air pollution is lower than expected in some of the UK’s towns and cities, despite a return to almost normal traffic levels, new research shows.


Student creates website to help travellers navigate Coronavirus restrictions worldwide

Posted on Thursday 9 July 2020

A University of York student has developed a website which gives travellers up to date global information on COVID-19 restrictions and lockdowns.


Researcher reconstructs skull of two million year-old giant dormouse

Posted on Thursday 9 July 2020

A PhD student has produced the first digital reconstruction of the skull of a gigantic dormouse, which roamed the island of Sicily around two million years ago.


Researchers reconstruct medieval shrine of Saint Thomas Becket

Posted on Tuesday 7 July 2020

Researchers have used new evidence to create a reconstruction of the medieval shrine of Saint Thomas Becket, which was destroyed during the reformation.


University boosts graduation bursary to support care experienced students through coronavirus crisis

Posted on Monday 6 July 2020

The University of York has announced it will boost its financial support for care experienced and estranged graduates this year, in response to the Covid-19 crisis.


Researchers discover lost ancient Aboriginal history beneath waves of Australia’s coast

Posted on Wednesday 1 July 2020

Archaeologists have discovered hundreds of ancient Aboriginal artefacts off the coast of Western Australia.


Most significant changes in UK air quality during lockdown have been in urban areas, new review confirms

Posted on Wednesday 1 July 2020

The lockdown led to a significant drop in some pollutants in the UK’s towns and cities, mainly as a result of less traffic, a new report reveals.


Intern scheme boost for Yorkshire’s creative industries

Posted on Tuesday 30 June 2020

Yorkshire’s creative industries are set to benefit from a student intern scheme set up to support the sector in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.


Universal credit should be designed with the people who use it, new report says

Posted on Tuesday 30 June 2020

Radical changes to Universal Credit are needed now more than ever to help families facing further hardship as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, a new report says.


Twitter data research reveals more about what patients think about statins

Posted on Thursday 25 June 2020

More than one in seven people taking statins - prescribed to lower cholesterol levels - believed that meant they could still eat unhealthy foods, a new study shows.


Private school education may damage students’ social and emotional development, study suggests

Posted on Thursday 25 June 2020

Privately educated students are more likely to experience bullying, start drinking earlier and take more risks than their state school counterparts, a new study has found.


Changes required for net zero emissions could bring immediate benefits for air quality, new report says.

Posted on Wednesday 24 June 2020

The UK’s transition to net zero greenhouse gas emissions could reduce air pollution in nearly every sector, from agriculture and land use to energy production, according to a new report.


University of York scientists receive prestigious awards

Posted on Tuesday 23 June 2020

Three scientists from the University of York’s Department of Chemistry have received prestigious Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) awards.


Agricultural conservation schemes not enough to protect Britain’s rarest butterflies

Posted on Tuesday 23 June 2020

Conservation management around the margins of agriculture fail to protect butterfly species at greatest risk from the intensification of farming, a new study says.


Protecting natural forest in oil palm plantations crucial for carbon storage and species conservation, study finds

Posted on Monday 22 June 2020

Forest conservation areas in oil palm plantations play a vital role in storing carbon and boosting rainforest biodiversity, a new study on palm oil agriculture in Borneo has revealed.


Exclusions in English schools should be used as a last resort

Posted on Monday 22 June 2020

Exclusions are often an ineffective deterrent to bad behaviour in the classroom and can exacerbate feelings of rejection and isolation, researchers argue.


Lack of support for people with motor neurone disease leaves some suicidal, study shows

Posted on Monday 22 June 2020

A lack of palliative care provision for people with motor neurone disease (MND) following diagnosis can cause emotional distress and, in extreme cases, lead to people experiencing suicidal thoughts, new research shows.


Letters from close circle of Rowntree women offer new insights into their lives and that of York’s famous chocolatier

Posted on Tuesday 16 June 2020

New insights into the domestic life of philanthropist, Joseph Rowntree and his family, have been revealed in letters written by the women closest to him.


Seafood helped prehistoric people migrate out of Africa, study reveals

Posted on Tuesday 16 June 2020

Prehistoric pioneers could have relied on shellfish to sustain them as they followed migratory routes out of Africa during times of drought, a new study suggests.


Study settles the score on whether the modern world is less violent

Posted on Monday 15 June 2020

While the first half of the twentieth century marked a period of extraordinary violence, the world has become more peaceful in the past 30 years, a new statistical analysis of the global death toll from war suggests.


£2.8m awarded to improve random number generator security

Posted on Monday 15 June 2020

The University of York and its partners are using quantum physics to improve the security of systems used to generate random numbers.


Treatment plan helps keep young cancer patients at home during COVID crisis

Posted on Sunday 14 June 2020

A new treatment plan is allowing more young cancer patients to recover from mild infections at home – helping to ease pressure on the NHS during the COVID-19 pandemic.


Clean water ponds boost rare wetland plants, study reveals

Posted on Wednesday 10 June 2020

Digging ponds in the countryside can deliver unprecedented gains for nature, according to a study involving the University of York.


New sensor technology could speed up blood tests for COVID patients

Posted on Wednesday 10 June 2020

Researchers are using laser-light technology to develop handheld biosensors with the potential to deliver fast, real-time blood test results for patients including those suffering from COVID-19 with secondary infections such as pneumonia.


Forgot where you parked the car? Research suggests memory is a game of all or nothing

Posted on Monday 8 June 2020

You emerge from the supermarket, struggling under the weight of the extra wine and chocolate biscuits you’ve bought to get through lockdown, and then… you draw a total blank… where did you park the car?


“Moment of joy” for York academic chosen to translate J.K Rowling’s new children’s novel

Posted on Monday 8 June 2020

A University of York academic has been chosen to translate J.K. Rowling's new children's novel into French.


Mental health services could save the NHS money by helping people to quit smoking

Posted on Friday 5 June 2020

Helping people who use mental health services to quit smoking is a good investment for the NHS and could save money in the longer term, a new study shows.


Study finds rising number of children in North of England are facing mental health problems

Posted on Thursday 4 June 2020

One in seven secondary school pupils are suffering from significant mental health problems, a major new study reveals.


Vulnerability of the UK’s food supply chains exposed by COVID-19, study reveals

Posted on Thursday 4 June 2020

The UK has been left “dangerously dependent” on just two EU countries for its fresh vegetable imports, a new study on the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the UK food system has revealed.


Tens of thousands enrol on University’s free online courses over lockdown

Posted on Thursday 4 June 2020

More than 20,000 new learners have signed up to the University’s free online courses since lockdown began in March.


Study casts doubt on usefulness of Ofsted ratings

Posted on Wednesday 3 June 2020

The usefulness of Ofsted ratings as guides for parents and students in choosing a secondary school has been called into question by the findings of a new study.


Researcher wins women in science award for work protecting African rainforests

Posted on Monday 1 June 2020

An environmental scientist from the University of York has won an award for her research into the protection and sustainable use of African rainforests.


York Walk returns to raise awareness of mental health

Posted on Thursday 28 May 2020

Residents in York are being encouraged to take part in a charity walk to help raise money to promote good mental health across the community.


Chimpanzees help trace evolution of human speech back to primate communication

Posted on Wednesday 27 May 2020

Chimpanzee lip-smacks exhibit a speech-like rhythm, confirming that human speech has ancient roots within primate communication, according to a new study.


University raises funds for bursary in memory of Richard Payne

Posted on Tuesday 26 May 2020

The University of York is fundraising to launch a bursary for students in memory of world-leading environmental scientist, Dr Richard Payne.


Festival launch to explore City of York’s road to recovery post COVID-19

Posted on Tuesday 26 May 2020

The City of York’s response when faced with the COVID-19 pandemic – and its future recovery - will be the topic of an interactive discussion at the online launch of this year’s York Festival of Ideas.


£3m funding boost for mental-physical illness research in South Asia

Posted on Thursday 21 May 2020

The University of York has been awarded £3m to develop a treatment for people suffering from diabetes and depression in South Asia.


Tropical forests can handle the heat, up to a point

Posted on Thursday 21 May 2020

Tropical forests can continue to store large amounts of carbon in a warmer world – only if countries limit greenhouse gas emissions, new research suggests.


Researchers to trial intervention aimed at helping older people isolated during COVID-19 lockdown

Posted on Wednesday 20 May 2020

Researchers are to trial an intervention aimed at preventing and mitigating the onset of depression and loneliness among the most vulnerable in society as a result of the COVID-19 lockdown.


University of York supports digital and creative companies hit by the impact of COVID-19

Posted on Wednesday 20 May 2020

The University of York is repurposing dedicated arts funding to support some of the region’s digital and creative companies hardest hit by COVID-19.


Retrofitting VW engines after “Dieselgate” scandal reduced emissions, new study says

Posted on Tuesday 19 May 2020

Retrofitting thousands of VW diesel engines with new software reduced harmful emissions by a third, new research has shown.


A game of cat and mouse: new study reveals Europe’s earliest house mouse…. followed swiftly by the house cat.

Posted on Tuesday 19 May 2020

Scientists have discovered that the house mouse invaded European homes 2,500 years earlier than previously thought.


York Festival of Ideas 2020 launches online

Posted on Monday 18 May 2020

The double award-winning York Festival of ideas will return from 2-14 June 2020 with a programme of more than 60 mostly free online events on the theme of “Virtual Horizons”.


New research project asks people to identify the Yorkshire accent

Posted on Friday 15 May 2020

Yorkshire folk are being called on to take part in a research project investigating the ability of people to identify their own accent.


Researchers reveal the evolutionary origins of the plant that sends cats into a frenzy

Posted on Wednesday 13 May 2020

Scientists have discovered how catmint gained its ability to send felines into a state of frenzy.


Researchers trace evolution of self-control

Posted on Wednesday 13 May 2020

Human self-control evolved in our early ancestors, becoming particularly evident around 500,000 years ago when they developed the skills to make sophisticated tools, a new study suggests.


NHS staff offered free training in scheme to support heart failure patients affected by COVID-19

Posted on Tuesday 12 May 2020

NHS staff are being offered free training to deliver a home-based cardiac rehabilitation programme to patients affected by restricted access to services during the COVID-19 pandemic.


The vines are drying – York scientist delivers fire warning

Posted on Thursday 7 May 2020

A University of York scientist working to preserve forests has warned that vines that once protected vegetation from fire may now be drying into fuel.


Compounds synthesised in York could provide clue in the hunt for new treatments against Coronavirus

Posted on Tuesday 5 May 2020

Researchers at the University of York have synthesised compounds that can bind to one of the key proteins in the COVID-19 virus. The discovery could pave the way for new drug treatments to fight the virus.


Half of people will find it harder to follow lockdown rules the longer it continues, new study shows

Posted on Tuesday 5 May 2020

Nearly half the people (48 per cent) questioned in a survey about the lockdown said that they will find it harder to follow the rules the longer it continues and almost a third of people admitted to breaking or ‘bending’ the rules.


Scientists recreate DNA damage caused by toxins from smoking in a bid to understand more about the causes of bladder cancer

Posted on Tuesday 28 April 2020

Researchers from the University of York have recreated how toxins from smoking cause unique patterns of DNA damage. The discovery could help scientists better understand the cause of bladder cancer and the link to smoking.


Study traces spread of early dairy farming across Western Europe

Posted on Monday 27 April 2020

A study has tracked the shift from hunter-gatherer lifestyles to early farming that occurred in prehistoric Europe over a period of around 1,500 years.


Researchers team up with NHS to produce chair-based exercises during lockdown

Posted on Monday 27 April 2020

Academics from the University of York are using their research to help people stay fit and healthy during the COVID-19 lockdown.


New study reveals York’s air quality improves by 30 per cent during lockdown

Posted on Friday 24 April 2020

York’s air quality has improved significantly during the coronavirus lockdown, according to research by a University of York academic.


York researcher to investigate the power of algae to absorb CO2

Posted on Thursday 23 April 2020

A University of York researcher has been awarded a Future Leaders Fellowship from UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) to investigate how algae converts carbon dioxide into organic molecules during photosynthesis.


New research projects announced focusing on the social implications of Covid-19

Posted on Thursday 23 April 2020

Academics at the University of York are to examine the legal and societal impact of Covid-19 in two separate studies announced today.


New research reveals a significant rise in the number of children with life-limiting conditions

Posted on Thursday 23 April 2020

A new study shows that the number of children in England with life-limiting or life-threatening conditions has continued to rise over the last 17 years.


Study sheds light on unique culinary traditions of prehistoric hunter-gatherers

Posted on Wednesday 22 April 2020

Hunter-gatherer groups living in the Baltic between seven and six thousand years ago had culturally distinct cuisines, analysis of ancient pottery fragments has revealed.


York scientists analyse COVID-19 protein in a bid to crack genetic safeguard

Posted on Monday 20 April 2020

A team from the University of York have produced a protein which stores and protects the genome of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19, paving the way to possible antiviral therapies.


Study unlocks new way to understand evolving strains of SARS-CoV-2 as the race for a new COVID-19 vaccine continues

Posted on Sunday 19 April 2020

A University of York virologist is helping to analyse the genetic codes – or the blueprint – of the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID-19.


Final year medics and nurses volunteer to help during COVID-19 pandemic

Posted on Friday 17 April 2020

A 22-year-old final year nursing student at the University of York has volunteered to work on a COVID-19 hospital ward.


York academic leads UK government effort to understand impact of air pollution changes during Covid-19 crisis

Posted on Wednesday 15 April 2020

A University of York academic is leading a national scientific advisory group calling for scientists and researchers to share their data on air pollution during the Coronavirus pandemic.


University delivers packed lunches to NHS workers

Posted on Wednesday 15 April 2020

Volunteers from the University of York are helping to pack and deliver 2,000 packed lunches a day to frontline staff at York Hospital.


University of York loans bioscience equipment to York Hospital to help in diagnosis of Coronavirus cases

Posted on Thursday 9 April 2020

A piece of high-tech equipment used for the diagnosis of COVID-19 has been loaned to York Hospital by the University of York.


York academics’ song is UK entry in AI Eurovision Song Contest

Posted on Tuesday 7 April 2020

Two York-based academics are the team behind the UK’s entry in an artificial intelligence (AI) version of the Eurovision Song Contest.


Covid-19 exposes inequalities in the UK food system, new analysis reveals

Posted on Monday 6 April 2020

Food banks will struggle to cope during the Covid-19 pandemic and vulnerable households should be given cash grants to buy food instead, a group of leading academics have suggested.


University of York technicians join effort to make Coronavirus face shields for frontline workers

Posted on Friday 3 April 2020

Technicians from the University of York are producing personal protective equipment (PPE) for frontline workers as part of the national response to Covid-19.


York academic leads world’s first multi-vaccine animal efficacy studies in the fight against COVID-19

Posted on Friday 3 April 2020

A York virologist has established an animal model that is being used as one of the three preclinical models for COVID-19 vaccines and therapies.


International community has a narrow window of opportunity to save marine life, scientists say

Posted on Wednesday 1 April 2020

Depleted marine life across the world’s oceans could recover to healthy levels by 2050 if urgent action is taken, an international study suggests.


Oldest ever human genetic evidence clarifies our ancestral family tree

Posted on Wednesday 1 April 2020

Genetic information from an 800,000-year-old human fossil tooth has been retrieved for the first time.


Fossil fuel use can be cut without detrimental impact on life expectancy, study suggests

Posted on Monday 30 March 2020

Growing consumption of fossil fuels over four decades has made countries around the world richer, but has not played a significant role in increasing people’s life expectancy, new research suggests.


Report co-authored by York academic helps develop WHO guidelines for COVID-19

Posted on Friday 27 March 2020

The World Health Organisation’s (WHO’s) new ethical guidelines for research on COVID-19 have been developed using a report co-authored by an expert from the University of York.


York academics call for COVID-19 help for poor children

Posted on Friday 27 March 2020

Low-income families should receive extra financial support as part of the Government’s response to COVID-19, a new report by University of York researchers suggests.


Local community involvement crucial to restoring tropical peatlands

Posted on Thursday 26 March 2020

Local community involvement is vital in efforts to raise water levels to help restore Indonesia’s tropical peatlands, a new study has found.


University of York launches Emergency Student Support Fund

Posted on Wednesday 25 March 2020

The University of York has launched an Emergency Student Support Fund in response to the coronavirus pandemic.


Pollution levels in UK cities drop as coronavirus impacts on daily life, new data reveals

Posted on Wednesday 25 March 2020

Air pollution levels in some cities in the UK have dropped to levels lower than the average of the previous five years as the coronavirus pandemic disrupts travel and work, new research shows.


Scientists play a direct role in the identification of priority forests for protection in Borneo

Posted on Tuesday 24 March 2020

An international team of researchers, including academics from the University of York, are working to help identify priority forest areas for protection on Borneo.


Chatty kids do better at school, new study shows

Posted on Tuesday 24 March 2020

Young children go on to achieve more academic success when their verbal skills are enhanced, a new study suggests.


University donates medical equipment and food to support NHS

Posted on Monday 23 March 2020

The University of York has donated medical supplies and food to the NHS as part of the national effort to contain coronavirus.


Protected areas critical to conserving marine life in international waters

Posted on Tuesday 17 March 2020

Marine protected areas (MPAs) are crucial to help manage many of the main threats facing life in the high seas, a new study suggests.


Researchers expose vulnerabilities of password managers

Posted on Monday 16 March 2020

Some commercial password managers may be vulnerable to cyber-attack by fake apps, new research suggests.


People fearful of taking part in vital clinical research

Posted on Friday 13 March 2020

Fear is a major factor behind people’s reluctance to take part in clinical research, such as trials to test new medicines and treatments, a global review has found.


University of York partners with industry in PhD pilot

Posted on Friday 6 March 2020

Employees from regional and national industries could study for PhDs under a new £1m pilot scheme to be introduced at the University of York in the area of circular, sustainable manufacturing.


Balancing bushmeat trade and conservation vital to ensure local livelihoods not threatened

Posted on Thursday 5 March 2020

Local communities in the Congo rainforest have been working with researchers from the University of York in a bid to balance the bushmeat trade with conservation.


Tropical forests’ carbon sink is already rapidly weakening

Posted on Wednesday 4 March 2020

The ability of the world’s tropical forests to remove carbon from the atmosphere is decreasing, according to a study published in Nature.


Scientists shed light on mystery of dark matter

Posted on Tuesday 3 March 2020

Scientists have identified a sub-atomic particle that could have formed the “dark matter” in the Universe during the Big Bang.


Researchers find early evidence of horse milk consumption

Posted on Monday 2 March 2020

Scientists have identified proteins from horse milk in the teeth of people who lived in the grasslands of Mongolia more than 3,000 years ago.


Scientists discover rapid sea level rise along the Atlantic coast of North America 300 years ago

Posted on Friday 28 February 2020

Sea levels along a stretch of the Atlantic coast of North America in the 18th Century were rising almost as fast as in the 20th Century, a new study has revealed.


Use of the Mental Health Act to detain people in hospital has become an overused last resort

Posted on Thursday 27 February 2020

Detention under the Mental Health Act has become an overused last resort, according to a survey of mental health professionals.


Hate speech dominates social media platform when users want answers on terrorism

Posted on Thursday 20 February 2020

People often resort to using hate speech when searching about terrorism on a community social media platform, a study has found.


Report highlights impact of poor indoor air quality on children’s health

Posted on Tuesday 18 February 2020

There is growing evidence that respiratory problems among children may be exacerbated by indoor air pollution in homes, schools and nurseries, according to a report which involved a University of York academic.


By royal appointment – Vice-Chancellor receives prestigious award on behalf of University at Buckingham Palace

Posted on Tuesday 18 February 2020

The pioneering work of the University of York’s Structural Biology Laboratory in the Department of Chemistry has received royal recognition at a prestigious ceremony at Buckingham Palace.


Almost £1 million of funding secured for bioeconomy research

Posted on Monday 17 February 2020

A project using waste from pea processing to clean water is one of seven projects which have just received funding from the THYME project to boost the region’s bioeconomy


Pioneering Scottish marine project paves the way for the revival of UK seabeds

Posted on Thursday 13 February 2020

Marine life has returned at dramatic levels to an area of water off the west coast of Scotland where fishing has been prohibited, a new study from the University of York shows.


One in five patients suffer from anxiety after stroke, study suggests

Posted on Tuesday 11 February 2020

Anxiety affects one in five patients around the world after a stroke, a major new review suggests.


GP care is valuable for young people with life-limiting conditions - reducing the need for emergency healthcare

Posted on Tuesday 11 February 2020

Regular involvement of a GP in the care of children and young people with life-limiting conditions can reduce hospital admissions, a new study has found.


One thousand trees for One Planet Week

Posted on Sunday 9 February 2020

University of York staff and students aimed to plant 1,000 trees in one day as part of the University’s One Planet Week.


From soup to cells: a potential role for gels in the chemistry of life

Posted on Friday 7 February 2020

A study by scientists at the University of York casts new light on the role of chemistry in the evolution of life.


Scientists discover how rogue communications between cells lead to Leukaemia

Posted on Thursday 6 February 2020

New research has deciphered how rogue communications in blood stem cells can cause Leukaemia.


Hot pots helped ancient Siberian hunters survive the Ice Age

Posted on Saturday 1 February 2020

A new study shows that ancient Siberian hunters created heat resistant pots so that they could cook hot meals - surviving the harshest seasons of the ice age by extracting nutritious bone grease and marrow from meat.


Online presence of inspiring Yorkshire women boosted by University event

Posted on Friday 31 January 2020

Staff, students and members of the public are coming together at the University of York to boost the representation of Yorkshire’s women scientists and innovators on Wikipedia.


York academic leads global preclinical response to coronavirus emergency

Posted on Friday 31 January 2020

A York academic is leading preclinical research to help to determine the characteristics of coronavirus and to test new potential vaccines.


Records from Cravens add missing ingredient to York’s sweet story

Posted on Friday 31 January 2020

The missing chapter of York’s confectionery story has come to light following a donation of records from sweet-maker MA Craven and Son.


Academic says the medical marijuana industry is using ‘underhand’ marketing strategies

Posted on Wednesday 29 January 2020

An academic from the University of York claims that some marijuana companies are using underhand marketing techniques to mislead consumers about their products’ medicinal benefits.


Fundraisers honoured for donations to cancer research at the University of York

Posted on Tuesday 28 January 2020

Fundraisers across Yorkshire have been honoured by the University of York who welcomed York Against Cancer into its College of Benefactors.


History demonstrates need for urgent action to ensure ethical research in global health emergencies

Posted on Tuesday 28 January 2020

Experts are calling for urgent action to ensure research undertaken in global health emergencies is carried out ethically.


Sound of an Egyptian mummy heard again for first time in 3,000 years

Posted on Thursday 23 January 2020

The sound of a mummified priest has been heard for the first time in 3,000 years, thanks to ingenious research by a team of academics.


Vesuvius victims suffered a slower death than believed

Posted on Thursday 23 January 2020

Some victims of the Mount Vesuvius eruption in AD 79 had a slower death than previously believed, new research shows.


New report unveils key insights into business models that put people and planet first

Posted on Tuesday 21 January 2020

A University of York academic has co-authored a major report which advocates creating business models that are focused on benefiting society and the planet.


University research used to create new podcast for home alone dogs

Posted on Wednesday 15 January 2020

A new pooch podcast based on University research has been launched in a bid to help lonely dogs relax.


York scientist receives international recognition for pioneering work

Posted on Wednesday 15 January 2020

A scientist from the University of York has been recognised by the prestigious Blavatnik Family Foundation and New York Academy of Sciences for her pioneering work in fossil dating.


Mathematicians put famous Battle of Britain “what if” scenarios to the test

Posted on Thursday 9 January 2020

Mathematicians have used a statistical technique to interrogate some of the big “what if” questions in the Second World War battle for Britain’s skies.


New study hopes to discover the cause of a mystery condition that still baffles the medical world

Posted on Thursday 9 January 2020

A mystery condition that can leave sufferers with unexplained paralysis is being investigated in an innovative new study led by the University of York.


Inspiring videos show smokers with mental health conditions who successfully quit

Posted on Tuesday 7 January 2020

Former smokers with mental health conditions have shared their inspiring journeys on how they conquered their addiction in a series of powerful short films.


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