Research

Research

The world’s greatest challenges cross disciplines and span continents. To solve them we need people who see things from different perspectives – going beyond expectations, to spark active, positive impact. At Aberdeen, we have been going beyond traditional ways of working, proactively working together to break boundaries for over half a millennium.

Whether it’s leading the global transition to a cleaner energy future, pioneering preventative healthcare for all, harnessing cultural diversity for a more equitable world, protecting the environment and biodiversity, or driving innovation forward through Data and AI; at Aberdeen, there are no boundaries for your ideas and their impact.

Boundary breakers

At Aberdeen it’s not about staying in your lane or sticking to the status quo, it’s about breaking with convention, going beyond traditional methods, siloes, and boundaries in pursuit of a better world.

Learn more about the boundary breakers and change makers championing inclusivity, internationality, and sustainability through a bold, interdisciplinary approach to research.

Orkney cancer gene link

Leading geneticists have discovered that one in 100 people with grandparents from Orkney have a gene variant that causes a higher risk of certain cancers.

Aberdeen top surgeon receives OBE

Professor James N’Dow recognised in new year honours list for his work as a leading prostate surgeon, the founder of a pioneering cancer charity and building a maternity hospital in Africa.

Professor one of most influential climate scientists

Professor Pete Smith, Professor of Soils and Global Change at the University of Aberdeen has been named in the Reuters Hot List - a list of the most influential climate scientists in the world today.

Academic committed to improving lives in Bangladesh

Azizul Islam has made it his life’s work to improve the lives of those working in Bangladeshi garment factories.

Professor honoured for service to health research

Professor Mirela Delibegovic has delivered life changing research in the areas of diabetes, heart disease and Covid-19.

We strive to spark change and work towards creating a fairer and more sustainable future

Recently we published our 2023/24 sustainability report showcasing our work towards the UN's Sustainable Development Goals. Read about some of our boundary breaking work.

University of Aberdeen joins The Turing University Network

The University is now a proud member of The Turing University Network, connecting universities across the data and AI ecosystem. Find out more about events and opportunities in data science & AI.

Interdisciplinary research projects database

Explore the huge range of interdisciplinary research projects that are being funded at the University of Aberdeen.

Using new methodology to improve energy efficiency

A new software tool has been developed to improve the design and efficiency of Hybrid Renewable Energy Systems.

Digital research

Discover the huge range of ways in which our Digital Research Team can assist with internal and external research projects.

Our interdisciplinary challenges

Our interdisciplinary challenges represent research areas of historic and emerging excellence that are capable of supporting a diverse research portfolio and delivering globally excellent and measurable benefits to society, the economy and health. Explore how we are working towards a brighter future, while actively supporting the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.

Energy Transition

For more than 40 years we've combined our academic excellence with industry expertise, to innovate and positively affect the future of global energy.

Social Inclusion and Cultural Diversity

In a rapidly changing world, we aim to be open to other perspectives and understand how culture and diversity shape human experience.

Environment and Biodiversity

By making the most of our proximity to nature, our researchers are addressing major environmental challenges both close to home and far afield.

Data and Artificial Intelligence

We have carried out research in data science and AI for more than 30 years, discovering new ways to improve health and daily life with this technology.

Health, Nutrition and Wellbeing

Our interdisciplinary strengths, healthcare expertise and industry collaborations underpin our commitment to addressing major health challenges with our research.