Quality of research

The University of Manchester is recognised globally for its pioneering research, which was confirmed by the Research Assessment Exercise (RAE) and also the high levels of funding we receive from both the public and private sectors.

We have more than 50 specialist research centres and groups with each one undertaking innovative research into areas ranging from cancer treatments and genetic disorders to artificial intelligence and aeronautics.

A tradition of excellence

From its earliest days, the University has made major contributions to the advance of science and technology. These include:

• Rutherford's work leading to the splitting of the atom
• The development of the world's first modern computer
• The first course in modern chemical engineering
• The first UK university to house a full body scanner
• Formulation of the principles of modern economics
• The birth of radioastronomy at the University's Jodrell Bank Observatory

Today our research activities remain at the cutting edge, with the University attracting more than £277m of research funding in 2009/10.

Research Assessment Exercise (RAE)

The Research Assessment Exercise (RAE) rates the quality of research being conducted in UK universities. 

The last RAE, conducted in 2008, showed that 65% of research activity, amounting to 1,193 full-time equivalent staff at The University of Manchester, is judged to be 'world-leading' (4*) or 'internationally excellent' (3*), putting us among only a handful of universities with an internationally significant research profile over a wide range of subject areas.

For detailed information on the results of the 2008 Research Assessment Exercise (RAE) visit:

• 2008 RAE Results

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