Research at The Open University

Research that transforms lives

We use our research to transform lives across the four nations and globally.

We take a challenge-led and open approach to research through our Open Societal Challenges (OSC).

These Challenges are driving real change across the themes of Sustainability, Tackling Inequalities and Living Well.

We need the brightest minds to address the most pressing needs of our time and we are building a more diverse next generation of research leaders to continue to support this and to broaden our horizons.

 Learn more about the OSC programme Collaborate with us

Research at The Open University

Research news and articles

Victoria Nicholas and Francesco Crea against a dark blue and light blue background

Inaugural insights: Student success and the future of cancer treatment

In their inaugural lectures on 23 June 2026, Professors Victoria Nicholas and Francesco Crea explored how the right support helps Open University students thrive, and how changes in how cells read DNA can drive cancer — and how this knowledge is opening the door to more precise treatments.

23rd June 2026
A band with two people on guitars and one on drums playing on a stage, with a person wearing a green hat with shamrocks on it dancing in front of them

New OU research grant looks at music as cultural refuge in Northern Ireland

A new Open University research project, Music as Cultural Refuge, has been awarded £186,751 by the Arts & Humanities Research Council to explore how young people in Northern Ireland used music to navigate the emotional and social pressures of the Troubles.

19th June 2026
The planet Mars against a black background

OU to support mission to search for signs of ancient life on Mars

The Open University has been awarded £254,000 from the UK Space Agency to advance the UK’s scientific leadership on the European Space Agency’s Rosalind Franklin Rover Mission, launching in 2028.

18th June 2026
The bright lights and pink and purple swirls of starts and galaxies against a black background

OU researchers win major grant to probe how galaxies grow and evolve

A new Open University research project will use cutting edge space telescope data and advanced cosmological simulations to uncover how galaxies like our own Milky Way were built.

17th June 2026
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