Research

World-leading research at Aston

See our REF 2021 results

World-leading research at Aston

Our mission is to deliver research that changes lives for the better. As a public research university, we foster collaboration between students, academics and industry leaders, bringing together people from all backgrounds and disciplines in the pursuit of knowledge, academic excellence, and a better world. For over 70 years, we’ve pushed boundaries at the heart of the UK’s second city. We’ve embraced diversity, led change, and championed learning. We empower our researchers with access to cutting-edge facilities and investment opportunities. And we aim to magnify the impact of our research beyond academia, to the benefit of all.

University Research Institutes

Aston Institute of Photonic Technologies (AIPT)

Making significant achievements in all aspects of light-based Information and communication technology

Energy and Bioproducts Research Institute (EBRI)

Conducting world-class research into all aspects of bioenergy, as well as developing new bioproducts and services

Institute of Health and Neurodevelopment (IHN)

Advanced technology to explore brains, development and healthy behaviours. Our research in children extends from ‘bench to bedside’; our discoveries become the next advances in healthcare and educational policy for literacy, eating and neurodevelopmental disorders.

Aston Institute for Forensic Linguistics (AIFL)

Improving the delivery of justice through the analysis of language, from police interviewing techniques to legal texts

Research by College

College of Business and Social Sciences

Uniting the study of language, history, culture, politics, sociology, commerce and enterprise to deliver innovation and opportunity

College of Health and Life Sciences

Bridging the gap between laboratory and clinic to help scientists and practitioners make a real difference in their communities

College of Engineering and Physical Sciences

Nurturing technical skills in engineering and the application of science to address challenges that are critical for the future

Impact Case Studies

Our impact case studies showcase the breadth of research excellence at Aston. Our academics are dedicated to conducting pioneering research that has the power to reach far beyond academia and make positive changes in our society.

Read how our research is changing the world

Supporting our Researchers

RKE Support for Research

Find out more about the range of support offered by the Research and Knowledge Exchange Team, including funding opportunities and grant application support