Research

The University of Manchester’s research has real-world impact beyond academia. We are at the forefront of the search for solutions to some of the world’s most pressing problems, seeking to be a global force for positive change.

From tackling cancer and poverty to finding the energy solutions of the future, our research is making a real difference to the quality of people’s lives across the globe.

Coronavirus test tubes

COVID Catalysts: new thinking emerging from a crisis

In a series of flash lectures, experts from Manchester address the big questions the world must answer in building back from the pandemic.
Research beacons

Research beacons

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

Research Explorer

Use our Research Explorer to find information on our researchers, publications, projects and more.

News

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Shipping Emissions. Credit - Dominika Pasternak at the University of York

Ship exhaust emissions alter clouds’ behaviour

Research shows that ships in the open ocean emitting large amounts of sulphates have the potential to alter clouds’ behaviour and pollute coastal areas.

y at Alliance Manchester Business School, came 129th in the

Professor recognised as one of the world's most cited scholars

Frank Geels, Professor of System Innovation and Sustainability, came 129th in the Stanford Meta-Research Centre's analysis of the world's top-cited scholars.
plastic recycling tray

Manchester secures £1.5 million funding to revolutionise plastic waste streams

The ‘one bin to rule them all’ project aims to simplify plastic recycling for consumers so that more usable recycled plastics can enter the circular economy.
Cup of coffee

Greater clarity needed over caffeine consumption during pregnancy

Scientists from Tommy’s stillbirth research centre at Manchester warn that expectant parents need to know more about caffeine and its potential risks pre-birth.

Clock on table

Shift workers at increased risk of asthma

Research shows that shift workers, especially those working permanent night shifts, are at a higher risk of developing moderate or severe asthma.
Organic photocalysis diagram

Using sunlight to transform chemical manufacturing

Chemical engineers have manipulated carbon nitride to use sunlight to synthesize fluorine-based molecules, which are key in pharmaceutical products.

Diamond micro chip.

'Revolutionary’ algorithms underestimate patient risk

Research shows that machine learning algorithms hailed as game changers in healthcare can significantly underestimate the level of risk to patients.

blood glucose meter

Impact of lockdown on diabetes diagnosis published

Research shows that between March to July 2020 new diagnoses for type 2 diabetes were down 46% in England.
Aerial shot of campus

Our structure

Our cross-collaborative research allows for a blend of specialised approaches and interdisciplinary innovation.
Group of Global Development Institute students.

Institutes

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

Impact

Find out about some of the areas in which our research is making a difference.
The University of Manchester

REF 2014

The University was confirmed as a research powerhouse.
Portrait of a Lecturer at the University

Researchers

Learn more about the people who keep pushing our research forward.
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.