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Research excellence and impact

Research excellence and impact

Our research, innovation and knowledge exchange is focused on the needs of local and global populations to maximise our impact on the world.

Our world-leading collaborative and interdisciplinary research is delivered by our diverse and talented research community. A commitment to excellence and impact underpins all that we do.

  • Research Excellent Framework (REF)

    In 2021, REF results identified that 90% of our research has a quality rating of “world-leading” or “internationally excellent”.

    A person on a bicycle simulator, with another person monitoring their performance on a screen.

  • Knowledge Exchange Framework (KEF)

    Research England have recognised the way we work with partners to benefit the economy and society, including the way we work with business, forge diverse partnerships and support graduate start-ups.

    A researcher in a lab coat and goggles sat at a desk looking through a microscope

  • Our global impact

    We believe in collaboration. Only by bringing together expertise in research and education can we tackle inequalities and drive change for a better future.

    A man receives a vaccination from a male medical professional dressed in blue scrubs

  • Impact stories

    Our vast research community constantly pushes new frontiers with groundbreaking discoveries, and we’re more determined than ever to share our findings with the world.

    Three people doing tests in some water that has appeared in a hole on an ice sheet in a frozen environment. A large boat is in the background.

Our rankings

Top 100 universities in the world

51st in the world for research environment

Top 100 in the world for research quality

REF 2021 90% of the research submitted