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Research institutes, centres and groups

The research institutes and groups at the University of Southampton are among the best in Europe. Our experts cover a range of different disciplines, giving you a wide choice of specific topics from single subject areas.

232 research institutes, centres or groups

Engineering

Acoustics Group
We explore the science and real-world application of acoustics. Our research includes underwater acoustics, aeroacoustics, and virtual acoustics.
Health science
Engineering
Medicine

Active Living
The Active Living research group aims to enable lifelong active living through enhancing movement and general health.
Photonics and optoelectronics

Advanced Fibre Applications

We are dedicated to exploring advanced applications of cutting-edge optical fibres, with a special emphasis on hollow core fibres. These fibres are designed and fabricated by the Zepler Institute Hollow Core Fibre group, while our group focuses on as...
Photonics and optoelectronics

Advanced Laser Laboratory
Advanced Laser Laboratory is a joint TRUMPF Lasers UK (formerly SPI Lasers) and Optoelectronics Research Center (ORC) lab. The group is led by Dr C Codemard (TRUMPF) and Professor M N Zervas (ORC), embedded in the ORC, addressing fundamental fibre la...
Business

Advanced Project Management Research Centre

We are a community of academic experts and industry leaders working in collaboration with project professionals and research bodies for the advancement of project management knowledge and practice. Our focus is on people, technology and processes.
Photonics and optoelectronics

Advanced Solid-State Sources
The Advanced Solid-State Sources group develops novel approaches for scaling output power from lasers for use in a variety of applications including industrial manufacturing, medicine and defence.
Engineering

Aerodynamics and Flight Mechanics Group
Our group undertakes top-class research on fundamental fluid dynamics, applied aerodynamics, flow control, flight dynamics and aeroacoustics.
Health science

Ageing and Dementia
We research health issues and care systems that affect quality of life in old age. Our solutions help people stay healthy and independent for as long as possible.
Electronics and computer science

Agents, Interactions and Complexity
We research the science and engineering of complex systems. We focus on areas including human-machine teams and human-in-the-loop interaction.
Philosophy

Analytic Aesthetics and the History of Aesthetics
We specialise in the philosophy of music, film, and literature. We also focus on tragedy, ontology and definitions of art, fictional characters, pictorial representation, and art and morality.
Economics

Applied Economics
The Applied Economics group produces innovative research that furthers and deepens our understanding of economic behaviour and global economic challenges, that informs and influences economic policy.
Mathematical sciences

Applied Mathematics and Theoretical Physics
We focus on mathematical modelling and mathematical physics, and investigate everything from neutron stars to superfluids.
Archaeology

Archaeological Prospection Services of Southampton (APSS)
We undertake a wide range of geophysical and topographic surveys in Britain, Europe, the Near East, and North Africa.
Art, design, media and fashion

Archaeologies of Media and Technology
We investigate the conditions of existence of contemporary media technologies through design and art.
Engineering

Astronautics Group
Our group covers a wide range of fundamental and applied research in space physics and spacecraft engineering.
Physics and astronomy

Astronomy Group
Our research aims to better understand the nature of cosmic objects and the life cycle of stars including the impact of surrounding galaxies.
Education

Autism Community Research Network @ Southampton (ACoRNS)
ACoRNS is a research-practice partnership that aims to improve the lives of autistic children and adults through addressing questions that matter to practice and enabling autistic voices by applying creative methods.
Archaeology

Bioarchaeology and Osteoarchaeology at Southampton (BOS)

The Bioarchaeology and Osteoarchaeology at Southampton (BOS) research group brings together human osteoarchaeology and zooarchaeology.
Engineering

Bioengineering Group
Our research focuses on the application of engineering principles and life sciences. We're exploring ways to solve problems across topics such as biology, medicine and healthcare.

BiOmics

Technological advances have allowed scientists to gather large amounts of data about a vast array of species, organisms and single cells. Our researchers are using mathematical modelling, machine learning and other algorithms to extract information ...
Health science

Bladder and Bowel Management
Our research aims to find sustainable solutions for people living with bladder and bowel leakage problems to improve their quality of life.
Engineering
Medicine

Bone and Joint Research Group
We explore new technologies and treatments to promote the repair and regeneration of bones and cartilage. Our research cuts across the boundaries of the biological, medical and physical sciences.
Medicine

Cancer Sciences
A brilliant team who collaborate to deliver innovative discovery cancer science and patient benefit.
Biological sciences

Cell and Developmental Biology
We research how cells become specialised, communicate with each other and respond to the environment, leading to an impact on the development of cancer, neurological diseases and the function of the immune system.
Business
Economics
Politics and international relations

Centre for Behavioural Experimental Action and Research (C-BEAR)
We utilise, develop, and apply experimental methods to study key questions in the behavioural and social sciences. We engage with societal challenges via research, consultancy, policy outreach, and training postgraduate students, early-career researc...
Medicine

Centre for Cancer Immunology
We undertake interdisciplinary research involving scientists and clinicians. Through worldwide collaborations, we combine our expertise to understand and develop potential new treatments for cancer.
Psychology

Centre for Clinical and Community Applications of Health Psychology
We promote the application of psychology to improve health and wellbeing, and to alleviate or prevent health problems, in clinical and non-clinical populations.
Chemistry
Electronics and computer science
Engineering
Mathematical sciences
Medicine
Physics and astronomy

Centre for Defence and Security Research
Our multi-disciplinary research responds to the breadth of defence and security requirements, delivering leading edge capability to both government and to our industrial partners.
Politics and international relations

Centre for Democratic Futures
We carry out interdisciplinary research on the conditions of achieving democratic futures, ranging from conceptual debates to challenges of institutional innovation and public policy. We provide a forum to share ideas and information, supporting each...
Medicine

Centre for Developmental Origins of Health and Disease

Our research characterises how the environment during human development contributes to risk of chronic disease, underpinning resilience to challenges in later life.
Business
Economics
Electronics and computer science

Centre for Digital Finance
The Centre for Digital Finance aspires to be a global leader in understanding the complex interrelationship between finance and emerging transformational technologies.
Sociology, social policy and criminology
Politics and international relations
Social statistics and demography
History
Archaeology
Art, design, media and fashion

Centre for Eastern European and Eurasian Studies
The UoS Centre for Eastern European and Eurasian Studies is an interdisciplinary research centre dedicated to advancing knowledge of a complex region that has been of key significance in shaping both historical and contemporary developments across th...
Business

Centre for Empirical Research in Finance and Banking
Our aim is to enhance understanding of the growing challenges that corporations, financial markets and banks are facing in developing national and global landscapes.
Politics and international relations

Centre for English Identity and Politics
The political salience of England and British identities was evident in recent elections and referenda. The centre explores both the formation and meaning of these identities and England’s local and national governance.
Electronics and computer science

Centre for Flexible Electronics and E-Textiles (C-FLEET)
We bring together expertise working on flexible, stretchable functional materials for electronic systems.
Mathematical sciences

Centre for Geometry, Topology, and Applications

The Centre fosters cutting-edge collaborative research in geometry, topology, homotopy theory, noncommutative geometry and group theory and provides a focal point for interdisciplinary applications in modern data science.
Law
Politics and international relations

Centre for Global Constitutionalism

Global Constitutionalism is an interdisciplinary field of study that draws on insights from politics, law, international relations, political theory, and philosophy to study the basic laws and norms of the international system.
Modern languages and linguistics

Centre for Global Englishes

CGE (Centre for Global Englishes) produces and disseminates research on the linguistic and sociocultural dimensions of global uses and users of English (Global Englishes), and on English as a Lingua Franca in particular. The centre provides a forum f...
Social statistics and demography
Politics and international relations

Centre for Global Health and Policy
GHaP aims to be a central focus of social science related global health research within the School of Social, Economic and Political Sciences and the whole of the University of Southampton.
Electronics and computer science
Medicine

Centre for Health Technologies
Our research areas are: Optimizing Treatment and Behaviours; Novel Medical Devices and Systems; Community Health and Wellness; AI and Health.
Mathematical sciences
Business

Centre for Healthcare Analytics

Bringing partners together to become a global leader in healthcare analytics that significantly impacts everyone’s health.
Medicine

Centre for Human Development, Stem Cells and Regeneration
The CHDSCR brings together researchers studying stem cells and development and ways to promote the regeneration of diseased or injured tissues. We aim to provide an environment where excellent scientists can make exciting discoveries for patient bene...
English
Film
History
Modern languages and linguistics
Music
Art, design, media and fashion

Centre for Imperial and Postcolonial Studies
We specialise in the study of the global empires that have defined so much of the world for centuries, and which continue to profoundly shape it today.
Business

Centre for Inclusive and Sustainable Entrepreneurship and Innovation
CISEI builds on an interdisciplinary collaborative foundation to understand sustainability holistically, to co-create knowledge and value for a range of stakeholders, including individuals, communities and organisations.
Psychology

Centre for Innovation in Mental Health

We use our expertise in child development, psychological interventions and affective neuroscience to research ways to help those affected by mental health issues.
Law

Centre for International Law and Globalisation
The Centre for International Law and Globalisation (CILG) was established in 2022 and brings together researchers working in a broad range of fields of international and global law.
Electronics and computer science

Centre for Internet of Things and Pervasive Systems

We bring together researchers who are creating the future of internet of things and pervasive systems, from underpinning semiconductor and sensor devices, machine intelligence and data science, through to new application domains.
Modern languages and linguistics

Centre for Language Study
We provide a wide range of language learning courses and resources, for students.
Modern languages and linguistics

Centre for Linguistics, Language Education and Acquisition Research
CLLEAR promotes the excellence of research in areas of Linguistics and Applied Linguistics. Our members’ research is concerned with cognitive and socio-cultural aspects of language, language use, and language education.
Electronics and computer science
Engineering
Health science

Centre for Machine Intelligence

Centre for Machine Intelligence (CMI) is a platform involving researchers and practitioners with the aim to deliver the impact of machine intelligence to society.
Archaeology

Centre for Maritime Archaeology
Our multi-disciplinary research addresses diverse maritime archaeological and underwater cultural heritage questions.
Business

Centre for Marketing Research
We research the science and art of marketing, focusing on areas like consumer behaviour, branding, and digital and data science.
History
English
Archaeology
Music

Centre for Medieval and Renaissance Culture (CMRC)
We are a vibrant community of researchers composed of four departments of the School of Humanities (Archaeology, English, History and Music) who promote an interdisciplinary perspective on medieval and Renaissance studies.
English
Film
History
Philosophy
Modern languages and linguistics
Music
Art, design, media and fashion

Centre for Modern and Contemporary Writing (CMCW)
The Centre for Modern and Contemporary Writing supports interdisciplinary research on 20th and 21st-century writing and culture.
Education
Music
Politics and international relations
Social statistics and demography
Sociology, social policy and criminology

Centre for Music Education and Social Justice

We are committed to the study of and advocacy for equality in music education. We bring together music practitioners and local, national and international partners in conversations about social justice and the alleviation of inequality, powerlessness...
Business
Mathematical sciences

Centre for Operational Research, Management Science and Information Systems (CORMSIS)
We apply advanced mathematical and analytical modelling to help people and businesses make better decisions. We’re one of the largest groups of our kind in the UK.
Psychology

Centre for Perception and Cognition (CPC)
We investigate cognitive psychology and human perception processes through vision, touch and sound. Our research explores high-level functions, including learning, memory, metacognition and reading.
Politics and international relations

Centre for Political Ethnography (CPE)
We aim to rescue ethnography from its current void in political science and build the UK's first centre for ethnographic research in politics and administration.
Social statistics and demography
Economics
Sociology, social policy and criminology
Ageing and gerontology

Centre for Population Change
We explore the causes of population change and the effects on people, communities and governments. Lawmakers and planners use our research to make policy decisions that improve society and the world we live in.
Law
Business

Centre for Private and Commercial Law
The Centre for Private and Commercial Law encourages academic staff in researching and building impact in all aspects of private and commercial law, regulation and policy.
Health science

Centre for Psychosocial Research in Cancer
The research we carry out increases our understanding of the psychosocial effects of cancer on daily life. By managing its impact we can improve health outcomes and help people live well.
Business

Centre for Research in Accounting, Accountability and Governance

Our central aim is to bring world leading scholars in Accounting together to exchange knowledge and expertise to address persistent challenges affecting our national and international societies and environment.
Education

Centre for Research in Inclusion
Our educational researchers are working to further theoretical understandings and practices of inclusion, through participatory and practitioner-based methodologies.
Ageing and gerontology

Centre for Research on Ageing

The Centre for Research on Ageing is an international and multi-disciplinary research centre examining key issues in ageing and the lifecourse, informing policy and debate at the national and local level.
Psychology

Centre for Research on Self and Identity
We look into social and societal phenomena through the perspective of the self and through our identities.
Business

Centre for Research on Work and Organisations
We are a hub for research-active staff from the Department of Human Resource Management & Organisational Behaviour. We respond critically to academic, policy and practitioner debates around a broad range of work and organisations-related issues.
Business

Centre for Risk Research
Our aim is to better understand the nature of risk and decision-making through research, consultancy and education. We develop new approaches to risk analysis, and help individuals and organisations improve the quality of their decision-making.
Archaeology
Geography and environmental science

Centre for the Archaeology of Human Origins (CAHO)

Palaeolithic archaeology is about reconstructing how ancient species of hominins lived. Some of these species were our ancestors and others were not. We study a variety of different kinds of evidence, trying to place together how these ancient specie...
Modern languages and linguistics
Film
Geography and environmental science
History
Law
Politics and international relations
Sociology, social policy and criminology

Centre for Transnational Studies
The Centre for Transnational Studies is an interdisciplinary research centre with a global membership, based in the Department of Languages, Culture and Linguistics. We bring together researchers, educators, cultural producers and the refugee volunta...
Chemistry

Characterisation and Analytics
The Characterisation and Analytics research group specialises in research-led analytical problem-solving by using the latest instruments to examine and analyse chemical data.
Chemistry

Chemical Biology, Diagnostics and Therapeutics
We contribute to the progress of new developments in healthcare, the environment, bioenergy systems and bio-nanotechnology.
Chemistry

Chemistry Education and Training
Our group of education specialists and researchers provides technical support to make sure our chemistry students are ready for research.
Medicine
Electronics and computer science
Health science

Child and Adolescent Research Group
Our research focuses on the physical and mental health of Children and Adolescents.
Medicine

Clinical Ethics, Law and Society (CELS)

We bring together interdisciplinary expertise to address ethical, legal and psychosocial issues of implementing new technologies.
Medicine

Clinical Neurosciences
We study clinical areas that include major human infectious diseases and diseases that affect the central nervous system.
Medicine

Clinical Trials Unit
Our expertise is in the design, conduct, and analysis of multi-centre interventional clinical trials.
Biological sciences

Computational and Systems Biology
We use an interdisciplinary approach to understanding complex biological phenomena and problems in biomedicine and fundamental biology.
Engineering

Computational Engineering and Design Group
We're a centre for multidisciplinary engineering simulation and design, and combine a range of analytical, computational and experimental techniques.
Photonics and optoelectronics

Computational Nonlinear Optics

We develop theoretical models and computer simulations for a wide range of photonics systems, such as optical fibres, integrated waveguides, and quantum technology.
Chemistry

Computational Systems Chemistry
Our research activities cover a range of computational techniques and theories, from multi-scale modelling to semiconductor and metallic nanoparticles.
Electronics and computer science

Cyber Physical Systems
We explore and develop cyber physical systems - mechanisms controlled or monitored by computer-based processes.
Electronics and computer science

Cyber Security
We bring together expertise and excellence in the field of cyber security research and education.
Medicine
Health science

Data Science Group
Our data science research uses large volumes of complex, heterogeneous, multi-dimensional and often unstructured dataset from different sources. We aim to understand patterns, trends, and associations of diseases to inform preventive action.
Modern languages and linguistics

Debating Ethnography
Ethnography is the study and description of culture, based on a qualitative research method that comes from the discipline of anthropology but is applicable to other disciplines. Debating Ethnography fosters dialogue within and beyond Modern Language...
Social statistics and demography

Demographic and Migration Modelling
The Demographic and Migration Modelling research group develop innovative methods for estimating and forecasting demographic change.

Digital Health
Our researchers are examining and developing information and communication technologies to help address the health problems and challenges faced by patients.
Electronics and computer science

Digital Health and Biomedical Engineering
Our group brings together engineers and computer scientists to discover new approaches to prevent, diagnose and manage health and medical conditions. Our research is end-to-end across digital health from sensors and meditech through to data science, ...
English

Digital Humanities
We enable staff and students to take digital and computational approaches to the humanities teaching, research, and enterprise.
Photonics and optoelectronics

Distributed Optical Fibre Sensing
We design and develop novel optical fibre sensors capable of measuring temperature, strain, and vibration at thousands of points using a single strand of optical fibre. Such sensors have applications in wide range of fields from aerospace and civil e...
Engineering

Dynamics Group
Our group's research covers a wide range of interests in the modelling, measurement and control of structural vibrations.
Biological sciences

Ecology and Evolution
Our research focuses on adaptations to changing environments, including the responses of organisms to stress factors brought about by environmental change at physiological, population and community levels.
Economics

Econometrics
The Econometrics group produces research in both econometric theory and applied econometrics with particular emphasis on methods and applications designed to deepen our understanding of economic and financial problems.
Economics

Economic Theory and Experimental Economics

Economic theory provides a framework for understanding how people make decisions about allocating resources. We test and refine these theories in controlled experiments to better understand economic behaviour and inform policy makers to improve the w...
Geography and environmental science

Economy, Society and Governance
We are a group of human geographers with research interests in economic geographies, governance, and citizenship.
Education
Electronics and computer science

ECS Education Group
We aim to improve education across the whole of Electronics and Computer Science in a meaningful, healthy, and sustainable way.
Electronics and computer science

Electrical Power Engineering
Our group researches and develops electrical technologies with a focus on efficient power transmission, satellite technology and renewable power generation.
Chemistry

Electrochemistry
The Electrochemistry Group has research programmes to generate new materials and new electrochemical approaches to energy conversion and storage. This includes research into fuel cells, thermoelectrics, lithium batteries and supercapacitors.
Engineering

Energy and Climate Change Group
The research group seeks engineering solutions for reliable, affordable and sustainable energy stemming from renewable resources.
Engineering

Energy Technology Group
We research modern scientific and technological challenges faced by the world, with a focus on energy efficiency, emerging energy technologies and sustainability.
Engineering

Engineering Materials and Surface Engineering Group
We’re working to enable surface interactions to occur with minimal energy loss and impact on the environment through enhanced materials performance and improved designs.
Geography and environmental science

Environmental Change and Sustainability
We carry out geospatial analysis and experimentation to understand environmental change and its impact on climate around the world. Our work has socio-economic impact and informs environmental policy and decision making.
Philosophy

Epistemology
We explore fundamental questions in epistemology concerning the nature of knowledge, the challenge of scepticism, and the scope of self-knowledge.
Medicine

Experimental Cancer Medicine Centre

Southampton Experimental Cancer Medicine Centre (ECMC) delivers access to world class experimental cancer medicine for the population of southern England and beyond.
Social statistics and demography

Family and Social Demography
Our department is recognised for its use of quantitative and qualitative methods to study social processes and family change.
Photonics and optoelectronics

Fibre Bragg Gratings
We design and fabricate passive and active periodic fibre devices, including fibre Bragg gratings, for a variety of applications in photonics.
Photonics and optoelectronics

Fibres and Communications

We develop new fibre technologies and explore their applications in areas including communications, sensing, lasers, materials processing and imaging.
Chemistry

Functional Inorganic, Materials and Supramolecular Chemistry
Our research group examines the synthesis of new materials and functional molecules that contribute to innovation and technology.
Photonics and optoelectronics

Gas Photonics in Hollow Core Fibres 

Hollow core fibres enable gas-light interactions over extended lengths, opening up diverse applications in high sensitivity gas sensing, novel wavelengths generation, and waveguide enhancement.
Ocean and earth science

Geochemistry
We use advanced facilities to perform the precise and accurate analysis of the chemical and isotopic composition of Earth materials.
Geography and environmental science

GeoData
We manage, analyse and process environmental data. Our consultancy services and interdisciplinary research projects range from managing river catchments and coastal zones to the wider fields of environment, social and economic development.
Ocean and earth science

Geology and Geophysics
We research in a wide range of societally impactful areas of geology and geophysics for a sustainable future, enabled by state-of-the-art facilities and technology development.
Social statistics and demography

Global Health (Demography)

The Global Health research group in Social Statistics and Demography is focused on exploring health issues and inequalities around the globe, especially in low- and middle-income countries.
Ageing and gerontology
Engineering
Medicine
Social statistics and demography

Global Health Community of Practice
The Global Health Community of Practice is an open forum to support all members working across Global Health in either Research, Education or Knowledge Exchange, and innovation.
Mathematical sciences

Gravity
Research conducted by the Southampton Gravity group focuses on gravitational waves, general relativistic spacetimes around black holes, and the properties of ultra-dense matter in neutron stars, such as superfluidity and superconductivity of nuclear ...
Health science

Health Workforce and Systems
We research how healthcare is organised and delivered in a range of contexts, with the aim of achieving better outcomes for patients.
Photonics and optoelectronics

High Power Fibre Lasers

The High Power Fibre Laser group, led by Professor Johan Nilsson, works on advanced fibre lasers for beam combination and sensing for lidar and net-zero aviation (pollution monitoring).
Philosophy

History of Philosophy
We offer supervision in many areas of European philosophy, with particular research expertise in the work of Kant, Schopenhauer, Kierkegaard, Nietzsche, and Heidegger.
Photonics and optoelectronics

Hollow Core Fibre

We are world leaders in Hollow Core Optical Fibre research. Our ground-breaking fibres guide light at vacuum speeds and unprecedented intensities, enabling advances in telecoms, manufacturing and sensing.
Chemistry
Electronics and computer science
Engineering
Medicine

Human Genetics and Genomic Medicine

Our research is centred around understanding the mechanisms of disease, using contemporary techniques and bioinformatics to identify and understand the basis of human disease and translating this for patient benefit.
Physics and astronomy

Hybrid Quantum Networks Lab
We research quantum light-matter interactions between atomic ensembles and single photons. We aim to merge these systems to form large-scale quantum photonic networks for processing over global distances.
Medicine

Immunology and Inflammation
Our research spans fundamental discovery through to clinical trials, across multiple specialisms like infectious diseases, cancer, dermatology, ophthalmology, rheumatology, and metabolic disease.
Engineering

In situ and Remote Intelligent Sensing (IRIS)
Iris is the world’s only research centre dedicated to developing intelligent, self-powered sensing systems. We operate in some of Earth’s most remote, harsh environments, giving a better understanding of the natural phenomena that occur at the extrem...
Medicine

Infection and Immunity
Our aim is to develop new diagnostic tools, treatments and prevention strategies for infectious diseases, with emphasis on rapidly lethal and chronic infections.
Engineering

Infrastructure Group

The Infrastructure Research Group has expertise across structural and geotechnical engineering. We address research challenges found onshore and offshore, supporting sustainability and resilience.
Medicine

Innovative Nutrition Solutions for Lifecourse Health
i-NutriLife is a Diet and Health Open Innovation Research Club (OIRC) Innovation Hub. OIRC is a network funded by the UK Research and Innovation Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council that promotes collaborations between academia and ...
Archaeology
Art, design, media and fashion
Biological sciences
Business
Chemistry
Engineering
Mathematical sciences
Medicine

Institute for Life Sciences
We bring together researchers with expertise across the themes of health and medicine, living systems, disruptive life technologies, and insights through data. We have an established reputation for working collaboratively, taking disruptive approache...
Sociology, social policy and criminology

Institute of Criminal Justice Research
We are an interdisciplinary research hub that explores and develops the relationships between criminal justice scholarship, research, policy, and practice.
Law

Institute of Maritime Law (IML)
The Institute of Maritime Law is a world leading centre for research, consultancy and training in maritime law, led by Director, Professor Andrea Lista.
Engineering

Institute of Sound and Vibration Research
Our research focuses on improving our understanding of acoustics and vibration, their impact on community wellbeing, and the quality and performance of engineering products.
Photonics and optoelectronics

Integrated Photonic Devices

Exploiting optical interactions at surfaces for bio/chemical analysis.

Integrative Molecular Phenotyping Centre
Southampton’s unique in-depth expertise in multi-omic technologies, combined with access to patient cohorts from world-leading collaborative clinical and commercial partners, aims to transform precision medicine across the disease spectrum, from canc...

Interdisciplinary Dementia and Ageing Centre
We are a network that brings together local expertise from across the research spectrum within the University and University Hospital Southampton. Our aim is to increase understanding of dementia and brain ageing and how to treat and care for people...

Interdisciplinary Musculoskeletal Health

The University hosts a substantial interdisciplinary community of researchers working to transform musculoskeletal health across the life course.
Electronics and computer science

IT Innovation
We develop new information technologies and their use in industry and commerce. We focus on ways in which this technology can inform areas like secure systems, risk management, cyber security and social media analysis.
Geography and environmental science

Landscape Dynamics and Ecology
We use multi-proxy environmental data, and model past and present environments to further our understanding of environmental change.
Photonics and optoelectronics

Laser-Direct-Write (LDW) Technologies for Biomedical Applications
We explore the use of lasers to create sensors that can be used by a patient’s bedside to test for an underlying disease or a health condition.
Law

Law and Technology Centre
The Law and Technology Centre brings together leading scholars with shared research interests in the intersection of law and technology drawing on the long-standing reputation of Southampton Law School as a vibrant hub in this field.
Education

Leadership, Educational Effectiveness and Policy (LEEP)
We bring together colleagues to research the areas of leadership, school improvement, educational effectiveness and policy.
Health science

Long Term Conditions
Our research helps us understand how people live with one or multiple long term conditions. By focusing on what matters to people we can improve their support and wellbeing in the community.
Economics

Macroeconomics
Macroeconomics at Southampton spans a variety of research directions, and emphasises building models of aggregate behaviour by adding up the behaviour of individual economic agents. The researchers in the group strive to advance the methodology of ma...
Chemistry

Magnetic Resonance
Our group explores ways to extend the timescale over which we can create magnetic resonance. A theme of the group is the integration of magnetic resonance methods into microfabricated lab-on-a-chip devices.
Ocean and earth science

Marine Biogeochemistry
Our multidisciplinary research team studies the biogeochemistry of marine systems, both in the open ocean and in shelf seas. We take on societal and global environmental issues.
Ocean and earth science

Marine Biology and Ecology
Research in our group focuses on understanding the effects of environmental change and human activities on marine ecosystems and biodiversity from the coast to the deep-sea. We investigate changes at biochemical, cellular, individual and community le...
Engineering

Maritime Engineering
We aim to explore and understand the dynamic behaviour of engineering systems and structures in a maritime environment.
Mathematical sciences

Mathematical Modelling
The modelling group focuses on mathematical modelling across science and engineering, including physics (from the physics of quanta and strings to that of liquid crystals), chemistry (modelling lithium-ion batteries and solar cells), engineering (con...
Education

Mathematics and Science Education (MaSE)
We have a global reputation for research in the areas of mathematics and science education.
Engineering

Mechatronics
Our research interests include electric machines, microfluidics, ultrasonics, thick-film sensors, and control systems.
Health science

Medicines Management
Our research provides evidence to support effective management of medicines by patients, carers and health professionals so they are prescribed safely and used by informed patients to manage symptoms and promote health and well-being.
Social statistics and demography

Methodological Innovation: Survey Methods and Official Statistics
Experts in the design and use of surveys, with particular relationships with official statistics, the use of administrative data sources, longitudinal surveys and modelling with survey data.
Biological sciences

Microbiology
We work on topics like patient treatment regimens, catheter design and management, and surgical instrument decontamination.

Microfluidics and Sensors

Microfluidics is the interdisciplinary study of the behaviour, manipulation and application of fluid at the microscale. It underpins the concept of the lab-on-a-chip, where multiple key components and operations are integrated onto one small platform...
Biological sciences

Molecular and Precision Biosciences
We research how molecular machinery governs cellular life, developing tools to tackle diseases caused when these molecular operations are disrupted.
Medicine

MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Centre
The MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Centre (Director, Professor Nicholas Harvey) was established in 2021, following reconfiguration from the forerunning MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Unit. At the MRC LEC, we study the determinants of musculoskeletal and me...
Photonics and optoelectronics

Multimode Photonics
Our research encompasses both fundamental optical physics as well as the design, fabrication and testing of fibre-based and on-chip devices for a broad range of applications.
Physics and astronomy

Multiwavelength Accretion and Astronomical Transients

Our group carries out frontline research on observational astrophyics. We study the formation and growth of black holes across the electromagnetic spectrum.
Medicine

Musculoskeletal Disease
We use lifecourse epidemiological methods to reduce the population burden of common chronic musculoskeletal disease and disability.
Photonics and optoelectronics

Nanophotonics Group
Understanding and harnessing light-matter interactions at the nanometre scale.
Biological sciences
Chemistry
Engineering
Medicine
Photonics and optoelectronics
Physics and astronomy

National Biofilms Innovation Centre (NBIC)
The University of Southampton is a core partner of NBIC, together with the University of Edinburgh, University of Liverpool, and the University of Nottingham.
Engineering

national Centre for Advanced Tribology at Southampton (nCATS)
We specialise in tribology which is the science of friction, wear and lubrication of surfaces that come in to contact in motion.
Social statistics and demography
Geography and environmental science
Education

National Centre for Research Methods
The National Centre for Research Methods (NCRM) provides training in research methods. The centre also produces online learning resources, conducts research and supports methodological innovation.
Engineering

National Infrastructure Laboratory

We work with industry and academia to tackle global challenges relating to infrastructure.
Health science

National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Applied Research Collaboration Wessex

At the NIHR Applied Research Collaboration (ARC) Wessex, we conduct applied health research with our partners and others in the health and care sector, alongside patients and members of the public. Applied health research aims to address the immedi...
Biological sciences

Neuroscience
We research national and global health priorities, from basic neuroscience to age-related neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s disease.
Electronics and computer science

Next Generation Wireless
The group researches the next generation of wireless communications systems and their components to transform our communications systems.
Medicine

NIHR School for Primary Care Research
This partnership works to increase the evidence base for primary care practice through high quality research and strategic leadership.
Health science
Medicine

NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre

The NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre takes new discoveries, treatments and technologies into the clinic, using unique tools, facilities and world-changing expertise.
Medicine

NIHR Southampton Clinical Research Facility

The NIHR Southampton Clinical Research Facility is an extensive, dedicated space for early-stage clinical research located at Southampton General Hospital.
Photonics and optoelectronics

Nonlinear Semiconductor Photonics
We explore the development and optimization of new semiconductor material platforms for application in nonlinear photonics. Our work draws on elements of materials science, nonlinear waveguide optics, photonic component design and device fabrication....
Medicine

Nutrition, Endocrinology and Metabolism
Our mission is to understand disease processes and to improve lifelong human health and wellbeing through research and innovation in the areas of nutrition, endocrinology and metabolism.
Mathematical sciences

Operational Research
Our group uses analytical and scientific methods to study complex organisational problems and to help decision-making through mathematical models.
Photonics and optoelectronics

Optical Engineering and Quantum Photonics Group

Led by Professor Peter Smith, our group specialises in the development and manufacture of novel optoelectronic devices for applications in quantum technology, integrated optical sensors and laser optics. 
Photonics and optoelectronics

Optical Fibre Communications
We find new ways to use and apply optical technologies in telecommunications.
Photonics and optoelectronics

Optical Fibre Sensors and Devices
Our group develops a variety of innovative optical fibre devices and sensors. We go from the study of fundamental physics to the development of ruggedised portable units which include electronics/data analysis and are field deployable.
Chemistry

Organic Chemistry, Synthesis, Catalysis
We study the structure, properties and reactions of organic compounds. One of our research aims is to develop environmentally sustainable approaches to chemical manufacture that minimise chemical waste.
Archaeology

Osteoarchaeology
Our experts progress archaeology's traditional strengths in zooarchaeology and human osteoarchaeology.
Ocean and earth science

Palaeoceanography and Palaeoclimate
Humans are now the main cause of climate change on Earth. We work all around the world to understand how Earth's climate system works naturally. We use what we learn about past changes in climate, to predict the ways in which Earth will respond to hu...
Law

People, Property, Community
People, Property, Community (PPC) comprises a collaborative network of legal and other scholars concerned with exploring the broader implications of contemporary property ownership.
Medicine

Perioperative and Critical Care
We aim to improve the survival, recovery and quality of life of those experiencing surgery or critical illness.
Philosophy

Philosophy of Language, Philosophy of Mind and Epistemology
We focus on topics such as semantic normativity, epistemic normativity, scepticism, the nature of belief, self-knowledge, and more.
Photonics and optoelectronics

Photonic Systems, Circuits and Sensors Group
Our group’s research in photonics is helping the development of critical global technologies.
Ocean and earth science

Physical Oceanography
We seek to understand, quantify and predict the physical character of the ocean, and the dynamic processes that control its circulation and mixing.
Photonics and optoelectronics

Physical Optics
The Physical Optics Group is led by Professor Peter Kazansky. Research activities in the group are focused on adventurous and potentially high impact research in optics, quantum and physical electronics.
Photonics and optoelectronics

Planar Waveguide and Slab Lasers
We specialise in developing novel photonic materials, waveguide devices, and laser systems for application in remote sensing, defence, manufacturing, and metrology.
Biological sciences

Plants and Food Security
We study the response of plants to the environment at the molecular, whole plant and ecological levels. This includes interactions with nematodes, insects and microbes.
Philosophy

Political and Legal Philosophy
We have a strong expertise in Western political thought with emphasis on ancient Greek and European political philosophy, as well as American political thought.
Medicine

Population Health
We focus on the patterns and causes of poor health and develop interventions that enhance prevention, early detection, and management.
Geography and environmental science
Health science
Medicine
Politics and international relations
Social statistics and demography
Sociology, social policy and criminology

Population Health Sciences
We research prevention of disease, reduction of health inequalities and optimisation of health and wellbeing for whole populations across the lifecourse, in the UK and internationally.
Geography and environmental science

Population, Health and Wellbeing (PHeW)
Our group specialises in the spatial analysis of census and population data. We study geographical population trends and future population measurement systems.
Medicine

Primary Care
We undertake world leading primary care research, helping to inform and improve evidence based health care.
Medicine
Psychology

Primary Care Behavioural Science Group
We focus on behavioural research across a wide range of conditions and populations. We aim to improve health-related outcomes at individual, community and population level.
Business

Product Returns Research Group
Product returns are an increasing problem in multichannel retail. We are an interdisciplinary team of academics working with retailers to address the root causes, influence customer behaviour, and increase sustainability.
Photonics and optoelectronics

Pulsed Fibre Lasers
We specialise in developing pulsed laser technology for use in medicine, defence, renewable energy, and manufacturing.
Mathematical sciences

Pure Mathematics
We work with researchers around the world to contribute to research in algebra, analysis, geometry and topology.
Photonics and optoelectronics
Physics and astronomy

Quantum Theory and Technology

We explore the ultimate limits of light-matter interaction in nanophotonic devices, aiming to unlock the potential for advancements in quantum material engineering and high-precision sensing.
Physics and astronomy

Quantum, Light and Matter Group
Our research group examines the connections between physics, chemistry and engineering.
Medicine

Respiratory Allergy and Critical Care
Our research covers respiratory conditions such as asthma, rhinitis, COPD, primary ciliary dyskinesia, and cystic fibrosis.
Engineering

Signal Processing Audio and Hearing Group
We research the processing, perception and control of complex signals.
Photonics and optoelectronics

Silica Fibre Fabrication
We conduct fundamental and applied research in the field of optical fibre technology covering materials science, new fibre designs and fabrication techniques required for high-power lasers, generation of new wavelengths, sensing, and telecommunicatio...
Photonics and optoelectronics

Silicon Photonics
The group works at the forefront of all aspects of silicon photonics. Our work ranges from fundamental study of devices and circuits to close collaboration with industry.
Health science

Skin Sensing Research Group
Our research explores skin health and comfort using sensing technologies. We improve medical devices and wearable products to increase quality of life, patient safety and health outcomes.
Electronics and computer science

Smart Electronic Materials and Systems
Our interests range from nano-scale biological sensors to complete sensor systems.
Photonics and optoelectronics

Smart Lasers and Special Fibres
Our research vision is to revolutionise manufacturing in the digital era by developing the next generation of reconfigurable, scalable, resilient, power efficient, disruptive ‘smart’ fibre laser tools for the demanding medical and biosciences sectors...
Medicine

Southampton Centre for Medical and Health Humanities
We provide a platform for teaching innovations, public engagement, and advanced inter-disciplinary research.
English

Southampton Centre for Nineteenth Century Research
Our group focuses on the ‘long nineteenth century' between 1789 and 1914 and promotes inter-disciplinarity in 19th century research and teaching.
Law
Medicine
Philosophy

Southampton Ethics Centre

We aim to build on existing interdisciplinary ethics teaching, and to nurture interdisciplinary research and outreach.
Geography and environmental science
Social statistics and demography

Southampton Geospatial
We create data to show you as a business leader or public servant what's happening at any location you work in. Whether you want to know when potential customers will come, or if your decisions are improving a local environment, we can help.
Medicine

Southampton Health Technology Assessments Centre
We are a leading centre for health technology assessment and health services research in the UK. Our expertise in evidence synthesis, health economics and information science informs timely policy decisions on the use of new healthcare technology and...
Physics and astronomy

Southampton High Energy Physics
We explore the underlying theories of particle physics, from collider phenomenology to string theory.

Southampton Imaging
Imaging has become an essential part of scientific research, from biomedical sciences to engineering to optoelectronics.
Archaeology
Art, design, media and fashion
English
Film
History
Modern languages and linguistics
Music
Philosophy

Southampton Institute for Arts and Humanities
SIAH places culture at the heart of world-changing research. We work across subjects to support socially engaged, creative and critical work.

Southampton Marine and Maritime Institute
We work with partner organisations to tackle global marine and maritime challenges. From developing green technologies to influencing government policy, our experts from across the University are improving quality of life and the environment.
Physics and astronomy
Mathematical sciences

Southampton Theory Astrophysics and Gravity (STAG) Research Centre
The Southampton Theory, Astrophysics and Gravity (STAG) Research Centre brings together three research groups with world-leading expertise on issues relating to fundamental physics and astronomy.
Physics and astronomy

Space Environment Physics
We study the interaction between the Sun and the magnetospheres and upper atmospheres of Earth, Saturn and Jupiter.
Modern languages and linguistics
Education

Special Interest Group in Language Testing and Assessment (SIGLTA)
The Special Interest Group in Language Testing and Assessment (SIGLTA) was founded in 2017 to increase the University of Southampton’s profile in the fields in educational measurement and language assessment.
Social statistics and demography
Mathematical sciences

Statistical Sciences Research Institute (S3RI)
We're one of the largest groups of university statisticians in the UK researching statistics and demography methodologies. Whether it's improving the accuracy of census data or helping predict levels of air pollution, our work guides policymakers aro...
Mathematical sciences

Statistics
As part of the Southampton statistical sciences research institute (S3RI) we carry out research in methodology and substantive applications.
Law

Stefan Cross Centre for Women, Equality and Law
Founded in 2018, the Centre explores structural, societal, legal and regulatory issues associated with gender discrimination, raises awareness, investigates the causes and seeks better solutions.
Mathematical sciences

String Theory and Holography
The group works on all aspects of fundamental physics - string theory; quantum field theory; applications to gravity, black holes, cosmology, particle physics, condensed matter and quantum information.
Biological sciences
Business
Chemistry
Electronics and computer science
Engineering
Geography and environmental science
Mathematical sciences
Social statistics and demography

Sustainability and Resilience Institute (SRI)
We bring together researchers from across the University to answer one of the most pressing questions of our time: 'How will we choose to manage our planet for ourselves and future generations?'
Electronics and computer science

Sustainable Electronic Technologies
Our group explores how to improve renewable energy sources and create more efficient electronic device technology to benefit the environment.

The India Centre for Inclusive Growth and Sustainable Development
We are a globally recognised centre for excellence which generates rigorous scientific evidence for policy impact and business solutions in India. The centre is led by co-directors Professor Jane Falkingham, Professor Sabu Padmadas and Amarjit Singh.
Archaeology
English
History
Modern languages and linguistics
Music
Art, design, media and fashion
Film
Philosophy
Sociology, social policy and criminology
Politics and international relations
Education

The Parkes Institute
The Parkes Institute for the Study of Jewish/non-Jewish Relations researches, teaches and raises awareness of relations between Jews and non-Jews, from the ancient to the contemporary world.
Engineering

Transportation Group
Our research is helping to secure sustainable transport for the UK and the world. We're interested in how society influences technological developments in transport.
Photonics and optoelectronics

Ultrafast X-ray Group

Our group uses high-intensity femtosecond lasers to generate very short (attosecond) pulses of coherent extreme ultraviolet (XUV) and soft X-ray radiation. This radiation can be used for imaging and spectroscopy at very small dimensions (<50nm) and a...
Health science
Medicine

Versus Arthritis and MRC Centre for Musculoskeletal Health and Work
Our research explores the adverse impacts of musculoskeletal problems in the workplace. We aim to improve the lives of workers, patients and employers by informing policy and practice.
Electronics and computer science

Vision, Learning and Control
Our group explores the theory behind technological areas including control, machine learning and computer vision.
Engineering

Water and Environmental Engineering
Our work focuses on water engineering, water and wastewater resource management, eco-hydraulics, and bioenergy and organic resource utilisation.
Electronics and computer science

Web and Internet Science
The Web and Internet Science (WAIS) group at the University of Southampton researches large-scale systems that combine computational, data and human components. We're part of the School of Electronics and Computer Science (ECS).

Web Science Institute
We combine expertise in web science, data science and artificial intelligence to study the relationship between society and the largest information system in history: the World Wide Web.
Art, design, media and fashion

Winchester Centre for Global Futures in Art, Design and Media
We highlight historical, contemporary and future roles for art, design and media within the nexus of local, national and global circumstances.
Business
Sociology, social policy and criminology
Art, design, media and fashion
Geography and environmental science

Work Futures Research Centre (WFRC)
We are an interdisciplinary research and enterprise hub tackling some of the most pressing challenges facing the world of paid and unpaid work.
Geography and environmental science

World Pop
Regularly updating data on population numbers and characteristics to help with effective governance and efficient allocation of resources.
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