Global Impact - Durham University

Research to empower and inspire

We are a globally outstanding centre of teaching, learning and research excellence. We are a world top 100 university, with 12 of our subjects ranked in the world top 50 and 19 in the world top 100. We conduct innovative and impactful research to transform lives and make a difference, globally and locally: research to empower and inspire.

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Latest news

Payday loan stigma affects borrowers’ wellbeing and stops them from getting support

The stigma around payday loans can have significant negative mental, emotional and social effects on borrowers, leading them to conceal the use of such services, preventing them from accessing vital support and resources.

Worried heterosexual, caucasian couple sitting in the kitchen looking at bills

Biggest ever supercomputer simulation to investigate the Universe

We’re part of an international team of astronomers who have carried out the biggest ever computer simulations from the Big Bang to the present day to investigate how the Universe evolved.

A supercomputer simulation of the Universe showing the cosmic web structure in yellow against a blue background

UK Approves Controversial New North Sea Oil Field, Outraging Climate Activists

DEI fellow Professor Gavin Bridge from our Department of Geography has co-authored an article in The Conversation which claims that Rosebank shows the UK’s offshore oil regulator no longer serves the public good.

An image of an oil rig to be used on a news post.

Vatican ceremony honour for Durham theologian

One of our leading theologians has been honoured in a ceremony at the Vatican.

Professor Anna Rowlands receives her Expanded Reason award at the Vatican

Durham represented in 2023 Earthshot Prize

Alumnus Sam Cooper (pictured second from right) represents Durham as a finalist in HRH Prince William’s prestigious Earthshot Prize this year.

Durham hosts new £10m supercomputer to investigate the Universe

We’re home to a new £10m supercomputer that will help scientists around the world investigate the mysteries of the Universe.

Chi Onwurah MP pushes the button on the launch of the COSMA 8 supercomputer

“What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger” - leadership in disruptive times

People that experience frequent disruptive events are much more likely to become aware of their own leader identity, according to new research.

Top view of four students having group discussion

Explosive volcanic eruption led to record-breaking underwater flows

Research involving our Departments of Earth Sciences and Geography has revealed how an explosive volcanic eruption triggered the fastest underwater flows ever recorded and led to extensive damage of seafloor cables.

Members of Tonga Geological Services watch a volcanic eruption from a boat. Image credit Taniela Kula, Tonga Geological Services

Defining what makes the best virtual first impression

A new study by psychologists at Durham has found the answers to creating the best first impression in a virtual meeting, such as Teams or Zoom, is a visual background of house plants and books.

Image contains three people pictured against three backgrounds, including a man with a background of books, a woman with a background of house plants and a man with a background of a walrus

Defining what makes the best virtual first impression

A new study by psychologists at Durham has found the answers to creating the best first impression in a virtual meeting, such as Teams or Zoom, is a visual background of house plants and books.

New expectations for research: More impact and practical relevance

Global challenges, rapid change and complexity are creating new pressures on research and the role of the researcher.

Brian Castellani and Jonathan Wistow with Colleagues

“Senzenina: What have we done?” We are all entangled in the politics of peace

On International Day of Peace, 21 September, Professor Stefanie Kappler from our School of Government and International Affairs reflects on the politics of peace in relation to art and, in particular, the work of South African artist and activist Haroon Gunn-Salie.