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Be a part of our research

Join a community of world-leading researchers and innovators

Research that changes the world

At Newcastle our research is changing lives and shaping the future.  

Across our strengths in health, culture and creative art, cities, data, and sustainability, we’re tackling global challenges to benefit people and our planet.  

As a postgraduate researcher, you’ll find a supportive environment where your ideas can thrive and make an impact. You’ll work with top researchers, use world-class facilities and contribute to new discoveries.  

Whether you’re passionate about advancing healthcare, responding to climate change, or exploring the intersections of culture and society, you’ll have the freedom to explore your own ideas. You’ll be supported by experts who are shaping knowledge and practice.  

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Awarded 5 QS stars for Research 2025
65% increase in Research Power since 2014 Research Excellence Framework 2021
88% score in Quality of Research Supervision Postgraduate Research Experience Survey 2023
Ranked 65th in the world for Research Quality Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026

Global recognition for excellence

As a member of the Russell Group, we’re committed to delivering pioneering research that makes a positive global impact. 

We’ve been awarded 5 QS Stars for Research (2025) and are ranked 65th globally for research quality in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026.  

This excellence is also reflected in the most recent Research Excellence Framework (REF 2021) results: 

  • 42% of our research is classified as 4* - the highest possible score 
  • our research capacity, or ‘power’ in REF terms has grown by 65% since 2014 
A library interior with labelLed bookshelves, including an
So much of the research we do here at Newcastle is genuinely world-leading, spanning a full range of disciplines - and often bringing those disciplines together to produce real impacts that make our world a better place.

Professor Matthew Grenby

Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Research and Innovation

Our research is powered by collaboration

Through our Centres of Research Excellence, we bring together researchers across disciplines and career stages to respond to worldwide challenges.  

Our success in the latest Knowledge Exchange Framework (KEF5) highlights the strength of our collaborations, with our score rising to 30 out of 35. We performed strongly in innovation and business engagement, reflecting the impact of our partnerships. 

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With the support of my academic team, I have the scope and freedom to explore topics and research projects that fit my interest and goals.

Eleasha, Geography PhD

Faculties, schools and research units

Learn more about our three faculties and their academic schools, research institutes, and research centres. You can also search for academic staff, or browse staff lists, on individual School and Faculty websites.