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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 computer-generated image of a space telescope layered on top of a multicoloured render of wispy reds, pinks and purples depicting space.

Cardiff astronomers to provide key technologies for revolutionary NASA mission

28 September 2026

Astronomy Instrumentation Group to provide far-infrared filters and internal calibration sources to probe cold universe as part of UK PRIMA team

A man is photographed in a rainforest wearing a pink t-shirt and a rucksack.

Satellite assessments of recovery from climate stresses must be backed up by on-the-ground data, researchers argue

24 September 2026

Study calls for closer integration between remote sensing and field ecology

A portrait of a young man with black hair wearing a brown shirt. He is standing in front of tree-lined terraced housing.

Childhood in Oman’s mountains inspires undergraduate’s first research paper

24 September 2026

Computer science third-year Arsalaan Ahmad led paper on mapping natural disasters with satellite AI

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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.