Impact and Engagement Case Studies
Making a difference
Here at Newcastle University, we prioritise research that has a tangible and early impact on the wider world. These examples show how engagement with a range of publics is woven into our research.
In this way, we can make a real difference.
We developed a framework to help European city authorities tackle the effects of climate change. We also offered a toolkit for museums to ensure that migrants have a voice in public spaces across the continent.
Rare disease as a discipline
Newcastle University has a long and unique history of leadership in rare disease as a discipline. Our researchers from the John Walton Muscular Dystrophy Research Centre have led international initiatives. These include:
- improving diagnosis, treatment and care for any and all rare diseases (of which there are approximately 8000)
- advancing important neuromuscular research
We united expertise in multiple disease areas to launch a new Centre for Rare Diseases at Newcastle University in the autumn of 2020.
European Reference Networks
In our daily work, we collaborate with:
- industry figures
- healthcare professionals
- researchers
- patients
- policy-makers
A key success here was our role in launch the European Reference Networks (ERNs) for rare diseases. Designed to cover both research and care fields. This is essential to translate rare disease discoveries into effective adopted therapies.
We also led three of those ERNs, specifically those dedicated to:
- immunodeficiency, auto-inflammatory and autoimmune diseases
- liver diseases
- neuromuscular diseases
Ramses: Science for cities in transition
Quantifying climate change impact
This research project delivered quantified evidence of the impacts of climate change. It looked at the costs and benefits of a wide range of adaptation measures, focusing on European cities.
Between 2012-2017 we partnered with leading scientific institutions in Europe.
The project developed a set of innovative methods and tools that quantify the impacts of climate change. This provided evidence to enable policy makers to design adaptation strategies.
Find out more information about On-Urban-Resilience.
Project outcomes
Ramses delivered:
- a strategic framing for evidence-based adaptation decision-making
- multi-level analysis
- quantification of adaptation costs
- policy relevance and acceptance of adaptation measures
Ramses brought together scientific expertise from very different disciplines. It led to the publication of more than 35 scientific journals. It also helped to develop solutions for future city planning.
The Collaborative ReDesign with Schools
Getting together to change school space
This project explores the impact of learning environments. They can either support or constrain particular teaching and learning activities.
Well-designed learning spaces impact on the wellbeing, engagement and attainment of learners. They also provide pivotal support for school level change.
Across Europe, new schools are being designed and built, and older ones are being refurbished or redesigned.
We want to drive improvements in education by supporting school communities. Understanding the learning environment will enable them to undertake informed change.
Project objectives
Our aim now is to develop trialled tools and resources, which we will make freely-available to the teaching profession. The resources would:
- evaluate the current school learning environment
- determine the changes necessary to support teachers' current practices
- develop more innovative and inclusive learning and teaching experiences for pupils
We will continue to develop resources with our university partners and education practitioners. We will also share and disseminate resources across our social media platforms.
If you are interested in similar projects and activity with our EU-based collaborators at the School of Education, Communication, and Language Sciences, please visit our school website.