Bringing life to research

At Bristol we do things differently. We bring all we are to deliver bold answers to big questions.

Why Bristol?

5th

for excellence in research across all subjects (Research Excellence Framework 2021)

94%

of research is internationally excellent (Research Excellence Framework 2021)

3rd

in the UK for spin-outs companies, (KEF Results) 

27

subjects ranked in world top 100 (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2023)

Making a positive impact

"We believe that when people come together with a shared passion and the motivation to fix a problem that seems insurmountable, anything is possible."

Dr Jon Hunt, Executive Director, Division of Research, Enterprise & Innovation

Our global research pillars

Forging a future for our planet

Find out how we're reducing greenhouse gas emissions to zero - and preserving our planet for future generations.

Committed to digital transformation

Explore how we're utilising 'deep tech' and information theory to enhance the lives of people and our planet.

Striving for socially-just societies

We're challenging systems and demanding a world where human rights are respected, and prejudice cannot flourish. See our research in action.

Driving equity in healthcare

Can we accurately predict, prevent and treat major health challenges? Find out how our research helps everyone reach their full health potential. 

Championing creative industries

Learn how we're investing in culture and creativity to help integrate communities and enhance quality of life. 

Redressing historic power imbalances

Discover an Africa-led mission to level up global research and restore Africa’s rightful place.

Our research partnerships

Our research goes much further than our labs. It inspires the creation of new business spinouts that turn discoveries into real world impact.

Three members of the bioengineering team in a lab, in smart-casual clothes, smiling at the camera.

Inspiring action

Research partners

Discover how we can work together for greater impact.

Research experts

Find out about our research and connect with experts in your field.

Research students

Discover how to pursue an exciting future as a research student.

Realising lifetime ambitions

"I had never heard of autisim when my son Zak was diagnosed. It comes with social exclusion and stigma in our culture. The experience inspired me to pursue a PhD at Bristol - and set up Autism Independence to support other marginalised families. I am no longer ashamed but proud. I am an activist and a campaigner for people with autism."

Nura Aabe, Founder of Autism Independence (PhD in autism in ethnic minority groups)

Spotlight on research

The secrets of moth wings

BBC Springwatch: Researchers study the intricate patterns found on moth wings to develop sound-absorbing wallpaper.

Disruptive, ethical leadership

How the pandemic disrupted leaders' beliefs about their organisation's purpose – and shaped a new era for responsible business.

Advancing AI discovery

University of Bristol to host UK’s most powerful supercomputer, spearheading AI innovation and scientific discovery.

Cultivating a positive research culture

Research environment

Find out about our vision, community and facilities.

Postgraduate research

Discover our diverse range of research-led courses.

Staff vacancies

Join a vibrant community of world-leading researchers.

Putting Bristol on the map

"We are a global civic university, committed to be in the Top 50 in the world by 2030. We work with partners to pioneer a unique blend of cutting edge technology and creativity to bring cultures from across continents together to forge an exciting future."

Professor Agnes Nairn, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Global Engagement

Sharing knowledge

Making social research more LGBT+ inclusive

Inclusive social research practices: working 'with' rather than 'on' LGBT+ participants.

The role of universities in decolonisation

The question of decolonisation has grown in prominence in the in the past decade.

How to pitch a book to academic publishers

Key considerations for choosing an academic publisher and preparing your pitch.