10th
Ranked 10th in the Russell Group for Grade Point Average (Source: REF 2021)
Our Research
Our unbound approach to research lets us reimagine and rethink the established. In all our research, we are transforming lives across the globe and changing how the world works.
Research reimagined
We are unveiling the hidden with quantum technology, understanding how future atmospheres affect biodiversity, removing barriers to create more inclusive education, promoting cultural understanding, and preventing maternal deaths.
To bring our research to a global audience, we have mirrored the unbound approach of our researchers and created a campaign featuring artistic interpretations of their research.
Our research challenge themes
Guiding our focus and drawing across our vast expertise and resources, our five research challenge themes showcase our pioneering breakthroughs, multidisciplinary collaboration, and significant global impact.
Thriving planet
Our research is improving air quality and access to clean water, and advancing the clean technologies needed to ensure a sustainable future.
Life-changing technologies
We are driving innovation with industrial and manufacturing partners, advancing technology and accelerating impact on human progress.
Connecting cultures
Our research promotes and connects diverse cultures, fosters social inclusion, shared ownership, and a sense of belonging.
Global health
We are improving the health of people across the world through new discoveries, treatments, and patient pathways.
Fairer world
Our research is driving meaningful change to tackle inequalities that permeate society.
- 92%
Of our research is rated as world-leading or internationally excellent (Source: REF 2021)
Changing how the world reveals the invisible
Professor Michael Holynski explains how the QuSIT Hub is working to translate quantum science into practical technologies that can be used in a variety of applications such as healthcare, infrastructure, transport and communications.
Research portal
Search our researchResearch institutes and centres
Explore our research excellencePartner with us
Discover how we can work togetherResearch environment
Discover our collaborative culture
Postgraduate research
We offer a wide range of world-leading research opportunities to choose from.
Find out how to apply
125th Anniversary Fellows and Chairs
We welcome the latest cohort of researchers joining us as 125th Anniversary Fellows and Chairs. Discover who will be driving our ambitions to become a global top 50 university.
Meet our researchers
Latest research news
Understanding why PARP inhibitors may stop working for some cancer patients
Published 5 March 2025
New findings could help identify patients likely to become resistant to anti-cancer drugs and aid exploring different ways to kill cancer resistant cells.
Global study on male infertility to advance development of new non-hormonal female contraceptives
Published 4 March 2025
Reproductive science team from across Europe has received $5million in funding from the Gates Foundation
The University of Birmingham celebrates 125 years (and counting) of world-changing research
Published 27 February 2025
To mark the University of Birmingham’s 125th anniversary The Exchange invites Brummies to explore research that is changing how the world works.
Largest ever UK surgical trial to make future operations safer
Published 27 February 2025
University of Birmingham to lead £10m funded trial which will recruit 26,000 patients across country to reduce post-surgery infections