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Global research

In the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021 90% of our research was found to be world-leading or globally excellent, making us a top 20 university in the UK for the overall quality of our research.

Our collaborative research with academic partners across the world makes a real difference, and we take our global responsibilities seriously.

We attract the highest calibre of academics and researchers from around the world, enhancing the learning experience for students and bringing a global perspective to our research.

Latest news

A photograph of marshland at sunset.

Groundwater is key to protecting global ecosystems

22 July 2024

New study maps groundwater dependent ecosystems around world for first time

A scientist carrying out an experiment in a laboratory

Partnership to create technology for sustainable chemical industry

9 July 2024

EPSRC grant to bring together expertise and facilities across UK and Europe

A powerful wave crashing down is photographed from beneath

Underwater signals generated by open sea airplane crashes could be key to detecting final resting place of MH370

20 May 2024

Study proposes experiments to seek further insights into aircraft’s fate using hydroacoustic technology

View all research news

Case studies

Protecting communities and preserving environments

Working alongside mining companies all over the world, Professor Wolfgang Maier has helped to prevent the relocation of local communities and protect culturally sensitive land, all whilst providing enormous cost savings.

Carmen Georges Bizet

Transforming performances of Carmen on the global stage

Professor Clair Rowden’s research has generated new ways of thinking about one of the world’s most-performed operas, Carmen.

families leave Paris

Reshaping perceptions of the Second World War in France

Individuals’ personal experiences are central to new understandings of this crucial period in history.

Kenyan court

Influencing electoral reform in Kenya

Research conducted at Cardiff University was instrumental in overturning an election result in Kenya and set a precedent for better accountability, fairness and the peaceful resolution of high-level political disputes.

Proboscis monkey

Protecting flagship endangered species in Borneo

Expertise in habitat mapping led to new conservation measures for the proboscis monkey and other key species.

DNA

Developing the Human Gene Mutation Database into an international resource for improved diagnosis of diseases

The database became the central unified repository for disease-related genetic variation in the germline, with over 9,000 new entries per year by the Cardiff University team.

Changing EU directives

Improving the energy efficiency of building services in the UK and Europe

Our researchers in the Welsh School of Architecture have trialled and implemented a more effective way of monitoring buildings and their services to identify poor energy performance, increase efficiency and reduce carbon emissions.