2RG Rail Research Group

Theoretical research that delivers practical solutions for the rail industry.

Two engineers in hi-vis and safety gear on a railway line. One stands with a clipboard and the other kneels, pointing at a notepad in their hand.

2RG Rail Research Group

World-leading rail research and innovation facilities

The Rail Research Group (2RG) works in partnership with the rail industry sector to maximise the impact of internationally leading research. We are a member of UKRRIN and play a key role as part of the higher education sector’s work in rail research and innovation. 

2RG brings academia together with a wide range of industrial partners to: 

  • tackle current operational problems 
  • de-risk delivery of future technologies 
  • assess the biggest challenges facing the rail industry 
  • train the next generation of scientists and engineers.

We bring together academics from different disciplines to work collaboratively in areas such as:

  • system integration and optimisation 
  • existing and future rail systems 
  • robotics and mechatronics 
  • internet of trains: digital railways 
  • vehicle dynamics and tribology 
  • socio-economic factors, through our links with the Institute for Transport Studies.

Access our expertise

  • Work with us

    Our specialist expertise can support you to develop a new project, solve a difficult problem, or seek funding to get an idea off the ground.

    Three people are sat on soft seating in a cafe on campus. Two are sat on a grey sofa facing the camera and looking at a third person who is sat on a grey armchair and showing the other two an open laptop.
  • Explore training opportunities

    Engage with sector-specific professional development opportunities and advance your career in the rail industry.

    An academic tutor stood teaching in the middle of a large, busy classroom. The modern room has big, bright windows along the side, with large digital screens and clusters of people working together on their laptops, around shared desks.