Research at the University of York

Curiosity-driven, action oriented research.

From climate change to robotics, we tackle some of the most pressing environmental, social and economic challenges facing our rapidly changing world.

By building positive partnerships and working closely with communities around the world, we're able to explore cultural insights, track societal shifts and deliver effective solutions as populations adapt to economic and global pressures. Our aim is to co-create research that brings benefits for generations to come.

As a University for public good, our researchers draw on academic excellence coupled with bold, creative thinking to change lives for the better.

Professor Matthias Ruth, Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Research

Research focus

Our research spans the arts, humanities, sciences and social sciences. These are just some of our major research projects happening now:

The Institute for Safe Autonomy

Our new £45m centre is at the forefront of research into safe robotics and autonomous systems

BioYorkshire

We’re working with partners on a clean, green future that will create jobs and boost inward investment

Departments and centres

Our research crosses disciplinary boundaries to develop new insights and solutions

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Research performance

York is one of the world’s leading research-intensive universities

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Research news

Research reveals complexity of loneliness during lockdown

A study exploring loneliness and solitude during lockdown highlights how different people experienced social restrictions as either “hell or bliss”.

Song co-created by York researchers reaches final of AI Song Contest

A song co-created by artificial intelligence and researchers from the University of York has reached the final of the AI Song contest.

Researchers find way to target cancer while protecting healthy tissue

Researchers have discovered how to target stem cells affected by leukaemia without causing harm to healthy stem cells, paving the way for new, safer treatments for the disease.

Researchers identify how robotics and autonomous systems could both boost and threaten sustainable development

An international team of scientists, involving researchers from the University of York, have assessed how robotics and autonomous systems might help the UN achieve its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).