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Current Research News

Brain cells as traffic controllers

A groundbreaking study led by Dr Marco Bocchio in our Department of Psychology reveals how specific brain cells called interneurons can act as our in-built traffic controllers.
Abstract colourful image of a person's head and brain.

New imaging of bacterial DNA uncovers secrets to future antibiotic design

In a new study, scientists from our top-rated Biosciences department joined forces with researchers from Jagiellonian University (Poland), and the John Innes Centre to reveal how a bacterial enzyme called DNA gyrase twists and stabilises DNA.
Graphic of DNA

Loneliness in old age and the role of social workers

Loneliness has been identified as a major challenge for social work because of its significant impact on health and social care services, particularly for older people. It is linked to conditions like heart disease, stroke and Alzheimer’s disease.
Three older women chatting to each other.

How teaching shortages could be tackled

A worldwide comparison of 18 countries suggests that teaching needs to be made more attractive to a wider pool of graduates to tackle shortages in the profession.
A group of school pupils with their hands up in a classroom with a teacher.

Abuse crisis in Catholic Church has led to drop in Mass attendance

A third of Catholics who previously went to Mass have reduced their attendance or stopped going altogether as a result of the child sexual abuse crisis in the Catholic Church.
A rosary on a bible

Pupils with SEND continue to fall behind their peers

Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) are continuing to fall behind their peers with the gap widening despite the introduction of SEND legislation.
Close up of a child's hand writing on a lined piece of paper

Misconceptions about dyslexia among professionals risk children being misdiagnosed

Our education experts have found that misconceptions about dyslexia are held by professionals who assess children for the learning difficulty.
A young girl reading a book whilst following the words with her fingers on the page.

How exercise can support eating disorder recovery

Research led by Dr Hester Hockin-Boyers (Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences), suggests that combining seemingly opposing approaches to health management could support eating disorder recovery.
Gym class lifting handheld weights with smiling woman in foreground

White Western women under greater pressure to look thin

New research by our Psychology department has found that White Western women are less positive about their bodies and feel greater media pressure to be thin than Black Nigerian and Chinese women.
Diverse group of women in underwear in a line showing torso and upper legs only

Multiple concussions in rugby players change proteins in their blood

A new study shows that retired rugby players who have suffered multiple concussions have abnormal levels of certain proteins in their blood.
Male rugby players in a game.

Why the Catholic Church should listen more to victims and survivors of abuse

New research by our Centre for Catholic Studies finds aspects of Catholic culture were implicated in how clerical child sexual abuse happened.
Lots of colourful fabric ribbons in bows tied to a fence.

Supporting the next generation through oracy development

The Commission on the Future of Oracy Education in England officially launched today at the Voice 21 Speaking Summit.
Arlene Holmes-Henderson MBE pictured outside the Department of Classics and Ancient History