Research and expertise

Find out about our internationally renowned research and expertise at the University of Plymouth

With world-leading research in marine and earth sciences, sustainability and health, the University of Plymouth takes a solutions-oriented, systems-thinking approach to solving complex global challenges, addressing critical issues through environmental, societal and economic lenses. Transdisciplinary, place-based research aligns with government agendas for people and place, while our approach to pioneering emerging technologies and digital inclusion allows us to engage effectively with policy agendas locally, nationally and internationally.

The scope of research at the University of Plymouth spans all 17 of the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Addressing global research challenges

Celtic Sea

World-leading facilities and research expertise supporting the roll-out of floating offshore wind (FLOW)

Earth Smart

Innovative approaches to using advanced agri-tech and sensor solutions for productive, sustainable, healthy landscapes

Dr Elsa Fouragnan in the Brain Stimulation Lab (purple wash)

Transcranial Ultrasound Stimulation (TUS)

Pioneering human brain stimulation research to further the treatment of depression and chronic pain

Featured research

Marine

One of the largest marine and maritime portfolios in Europe, reinforced by an international reputation for world-leading, transdisciplinary research.

Cyber-Resilience of Offshore Wind Networks (CROWN)
World-leading expertise in maritime cyber security and vulnerabilities of offshore wind control systems

Ropes to Reefs FISP
Assessing the wider benefits of the UK’s first large-scale offshore mussel farm, and its impact on marine protected areas and fisheries

Virtual fish
Working with industry and academia to develop 3D in vitro models as effective alternatives to live fish studies for biomedical research

Earth

Pioneering an interdisciplinary, systems-thinking approach to tackle sustainability challenges and connect research expertise with the wider world.

Environmental Land Management Strategic Knowledge Exchange Hub
Research leadership and knowledge exchange to support the implementation of new agricultural policy

Crops in a farmed field covered by protective sheeting

BIO-PLASTIC-RISK: biodegradable bioplastics – assessing environmental risk
Research to establish the fate of biodegradable bioplastics in the environment and their effect on organisms and ecosystem function

Advancing Controlled Environment Agriculture
Integrating dynamic LED lighting with artificial intelligence to optimise photosynthesis and crop health

Health

Improving human health and care, from cutting-edge discovery research to translation into novel interventions and application within the community.

Older man playing video games with a young boy

ICONIC: Intergenerational Codesign Of Novel technologies in Coastal communities
Improving digital inclusion and fostering intergenerational connection in isolated regions with new technology

A set of dentures being held by hands wearing white gloves

In vitro modelling of oral mucosal response to denture wear
Analysing how tissue responds to the repeated physical pressure associated with functional dentures

TULAY: Co-designing Philippine community physical rehabilitation
Working with stroke survivors and families to facilitate recovery care delivered within the community setting

SHAPE disciplines address global challenges associated with marine, health and sustainability through the lens of place

Through five place-based research themes, we investigate the intricate relationships between communities, the natural world, and technology.

Locally, we co-create sustainable solutions to complex problems in order to build resilient and thriving neighbourhoods, cities, and regions. This work transcends geographical, social and political boundaries to become applicable on a global level.

Explore our research

SHAPE – Social Sciences, Humanities, and the Arts for People and the Economy

Driving research and innovation from the South West

Our research plays a key role in supporting the ambition of Great South West – a strategic initiative aimed at fostering economic growth and development in the region – in terms of both food and energy security, and defence.

Explore our contribution to the regional security and net zero agenda

Hear from our experts

Thought leadership and opinion from our experts to highlight how our research is tackling critical sustainability challenges.

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Global Plastics Treaty

With Professor Richard Thompson

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Net Zero

with Professor Ian Bailey

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Energy Security

with Professor Deborah Greaves

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Clean Maritime

with Dr Richard Pemberton

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Soil Health

with Dr Jennifer Rowntree

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People and Place

with Professor James Daybell

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Entrepreneurial Futures

A major new initiative, powered by a £5.6 million investment from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, that aims to inspire innovation and drive economic growth by connecting businesses in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly with the region’s further and higher education institutions through research and development-led activities.

Focusing on research priorities in support of key sectors for the county’s economy, University of Plymouth is delivering activities around net zero, clean energy, agri-robotics, immersive technologies and coastal communities.

Find out how your business can get involved with Entrepreneurial Futures

Brain illustration showing neuron connections

Delivering solutions-focused research in life sciences

Our research covers a wide spectrum of life sciences, ranging from clinical medicine to marine biology, public health to neuroscience, psychology to agriculture and food sciences. Our scientists are working to combat antimicrobial resistance, food security, health inequality, and sustainable use of the blue economy.

We feature on South West Life Sciences – bringing together a critical mass of life sciences research, education and industry across the South West.

Discover more about life sciences at the University of Plymouth

Research centres

Interdisciplinary Strategic Institutes

Our diverse research spans three Strategic Institutes. Collaborative endeavour in rich, natural environments drives solutions to global challenges.

Marine Institute
Marine, maritime, education and innovation expertise integrate to train scientists, engineers, policymakers, artists, technicians and business.

Admissions information Additional information and documentation required for the application process.Access to application forms, download guides and confirmation information. Visit our admissions homepage.

Plymouth Institute of Health and Care Research
Transformation in life course, ageing, methodologies, e-health, technology and interventions in health, social care, lifestyle, health and wellbeing.

Aerial view from high altitude of little planet earth with small village houses and distant green cultivated agricultural fields with growing crops on bright summer evening

Sustainable Earth Institute
Science, engineering, arts, humanities, health and business, with community, businesses and individuals, innovate to build resilience for our planet.