Research impact

Our researchers address some of the complex challenges facing the world today. We work with experts from other fields – and communities themselves - to help achieve real improvements on the ground.

Some of our projects have also contributed to national policy changes. The research reflects our core values as a University and our commitment to transforming people, the places where they live and wider society. 

Examples of our case studies include:

  • Tackling environmental inequality by showing that people who live in deprived areas disproportionately experience poor air quality and are at greater risk of their homes being flooded. Professor Jon Fairburn has worked with government agencies and the World Health Organisation to bring about real change.
  • Transforming Stoke-on-Trent’s disused Portland Inn into a community space and social enterprise, testing the role of culture and creativity in driving community-led change. Associate Professor and artist Anna Francis has also been supporting residents to create a 100-year plan for their area.
  • Little is known about the fate of millions of people persecuted by the Nazis or what happened to their remains. Professor Caroline Sturdy Colls has shed light on this through her research, using forensic archaeological methods to identify, study and protect Holocaust sites.
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Research Excellence Framework

Read more about our internationally recognised research and how it’s having a significant impact on people’s lives. Our mission is to be a catalyst for change.
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Impact Case Studies

Discover some of the fascinating research at University of Staffordshire. See how we are making a major difference locally, nationally and globally.

Latest news

All news
A man wearing a face mask and rubber gloves next to a taxidermy bear in a glass cabinet

Student analyses museum bear’s hair to help tackle wildlife crime

A University of Staffordshire student is using hair from a 120-year-old taxidermy bear to explore new ways of preventing wildlife crime

A line of dark red spots splattered on white paper framed by a ruler

PhD student wins forensic science award for pioneering bloodstain research

A University of Staffordshire PhD student's award-winning research could transform how bloodstain evidence at crime scenes is analysed

The inside of Tutankhamun's tomb with paintings of people on the walls

‘Real mummy’s curse’ behind sale and trade of mummified remains exposed

Experts have warned of the hidden health risks associated with the unregulated global trade of mummified remains

Join our research community

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Postgraduate Research

Find out more about pursuing research with us. We have a range of options for postgraduate students so you can tailor your studies to your interests.
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Collaborate with us

Find out more about our partnerships with businesses and other organisations. If you are interested in collaborating with us, get in touch.

Find a researcher

See how our research community can help, whether you want to collaborate with us, draw on our consultancy work or do research yourself.

Research governance

Read about our efforts to ensure research meets the highest standards. We provide guidance on research integrity, ethics and other key areas.
University of the year

Daily Mail University Guide, 2027

University of the year

Academic Employability Awards 2026, Graduate Futures Institute

for overall student positivity

National Student Survey 2026

university in the UK

National Student Survey 2026

for Social Inclusion

The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026

in the UK for Games Education

Rookies Games Design and Development 2023, 2025

TIGA Best Games Institution 2024, 2025

of Research is “Internationally Excellent” or “World Leading”

Research Excellence Framework 2021

of Research Impact is ‘Outstanding’ or ‘Very Considerable’

Research Excellence Framework 2021