Research

The University of Manchester is a powerhouse of research and is ranked among the leading research universities globally (top ten for social and environmental impact, Times Higher Education, 2022).

Research Explorer

Search for University researchers, publications, projects and more.

Learn more

Research is at the heart of our heritage, our present and our vision for the future. Our discoveries have shaped the world today, from the development of the first stored-program computer to the establishment of modern economic theory.

We bring the world's best people together, combining expertise from across disciplines to understand and find new solutions to some of the world’s most pressing problems.

From tackling cancer and poverty to finding the energy solutions of the future, find out about our impact, institutes, researchers and partnerships that help us make a real difference to the quality of people’s lives across the globe.

Aerial view of John Owens.

REF 2021

Our position as a research powerhouse has been confirmed in the Research Excellence Framework 2021.
NULL

Research impact showcase

Find out how we're solving the world's most urgent problems.
NULL

Levelling up

Discover how we're bridging divides through research, innovation and investment.
Research beacons

Research beacons

Our pioneering and interdisciplinary research is tackling some of the world's biggest challenges.

News

See all news
Show previous news story Show next news story
An older person has an eye test by an optometrist.

Scientists move closer to treatment for common blindness

Manchester scientists have taken an important step towards finding a treatment for age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
Aerial view over The University of Manchester campus.

REF 2021 confirms Manchester as a research powerhouse

The University has retained fifth place for research power in the Research Excellence Framework 2021, the first UK-wide evaluation since 2014.
Dr Judith Pardo Perez with Chile's first complete ichthyosaur.

Chile's first complete ichthyosaur recovered

Manchester's Dr Dean Lomax is part of the team that helped collect 'Fiona', the fossilised remains of Chile's first complete ichthyosaur discovered in 2009.
Ovarian cancer blood test

New blood test could help diagnose ovarian cancer faster

A blood test given by GPs could help diagnose ovarian cancer faster and more accurately, especially for women under the age of 50 according to Manchester researchers.

Manchester Innocence Project

New podcast examines growing movement to overturn false convictions

The University's Manchester Innocence Project has partnered with podcast makers to launch a new true crime podcast, exploring wrongful convictions.

atherosclerosis

Diseased blood vessels communicate with the brain, scientists show

Manchester scientists have helped to prove that nerve signals communicate between clogged-up arteries and the brain.
David Attenborough

Manchester's palaeontology find to feature in David Attenborough documentary

The latest finds unearthed by Manchester palaeontologist, Robert DePalma, will feature in BBC One's Dinosaurs: The final day with David Attenborough.
A man wearing a mask and looking out of a window.

Pandemic has made young people more depressed

Manchester researchers have helped conduct a new study which found that young people have become more depressed and less satisfied with their lives since the COVID-19 pandemic.
Satellite image of world

Research impact

Learn how our research delivers economic, environmental and social benefits across the globe.
Purple box with an illustration of houses with the words Global challenges, Manchester solutions

Research strategy and achievements

We're a powerhouse of research underpinned by a strategic approach that ensures we lead the way.
Group of Global Development Institute students.

Research institutes and platforms

We combine disciplines and capabilities to meet research challenges and the needs of society.
The University of Manchester

Research partnerships

Our collaborations advance research and innovation in areas of shared interest.
Manchester cityscape

Research environment and culture

Find out how our research environment encourages innovative, cross-disciplinary collaboration.
Two women and one man sitting on sofas looking at the camera

Researcher development

Find out how we help our staff reach their potential and make a difference globally.
Postgraduate student in chemical engineering lab

Postgraduate research

Looking to take your first steps into academic research? There is no better place to start than Manchester.
Aerial shot of campus

Research structure and facilities

Our cross-collaborative research allows for a blend of specialised approaches and interdisciplinary innovation.

Equality, diversity and inclusion

We provide an environment where diversity is celebrated and everyone is fairly treated.

Read more

Information for colleagues at Manchester

If you're a member of our research staff, we have dedicated resources for you on Staffnet.

Go to Staffnet

Research rankings

The University of Manchester’s current rankings place us among the world’s best universities.

Read more