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)
Exploring our understanding of Indigenous Treaties
The Treatied Spaces Research Group is expanding our understanding of Indigenous treaties, resources and sovereignty.
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
Birmingham teenager first patient in the UK to receive groundbreaking diabetes treatment
Published 12 February 2025
A young patient identified by the ELSA study as having early stages of Type 1 Diabetes, has received treatment to delay the condition.
Researching love at Birmingham
Published 12 February 2025
As we celebrate our 125th anniversary and it is Valentine's Day, we talk through some of our past love research.
Keeping hearts beating for 125 years
Published 11 February 2025
When the heart skips a beat: research from discovery science through to benefits for patients and the NHS.
Common antibiotic could treat inflammatory bowel disease, new study finds
Published 10 February 2025
Trial showed promising results for patients with IBD and autoimmune liver disease with 80% achieving clinical remission