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.
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Community engagement

Read about our exciting community initiatives and how they are making a positive impact. We work alongside community researchers on some research projects.

Latest news

All news
Emma Tilley

Change in the law could help families of missing persons

An expert on missing persons and unidentified human remains is hoping her research can help bring about a change in the law.

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University of Staffordshire unveils new brand identity

Staffordshire University is thrilled to announce that, from today, it will officially be known as ‘University of Staffordshire.’

Group of people working with post-it notes photographed through glass wall.

KEF4 finds University highly engaged with skills and start-ups

Staffordshire University is in the top 20 per cent of universities which are very highly engaged with CPD and graduate start-ups.

Our research goes beyond experiments in the laboratory. We apply our findings to influence policies and practice.
Nachiappan Chockalingam

Biomechanics researcher

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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Opportunities for Academics

Explore our research expertise and support for academics. Find out about staff development, funding opportunities and collaborative work.

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.

Community engagement

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

Research governance

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

Contact Research, Innovation and Impact Services

The Research, Innovation and Impact Services team can provide information about all aspects of research at our University.

in the UK for Quality Education

Sustainable Development Goal 4, Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2024

for Career Prospects

Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2023

Top 5 for Social Inclusion

The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025

for First Generation Students

The Mail University Guide 2025

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

Research Excellence Framework 2021

for Facilities

Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2023

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

Research Excellence Framework 2021

Four Star Rating

QS Star Ratings 2021