Research at The Open University

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

Dr Sara Calvo Martinez, with shoulder length dark blond hair, wearing a blue and white polka-dot blouse, smiling at the camera

Research image of the month – amplifying voices through visual research

This month’s research image of the month (August 2025) encapsulates Dr Sara Calvo Martinez’s research on how community social enterprises can create inclusive, healing, and empowering spaces for marginalised groups.

7th August 2025

Unlocking the secrets of pollen: OU’s role in a groundbreaking international digitisation project

In a transformative leap for the century-old science of palynology - the study of pollen - The Open University is helping in/contributing to a global effort to digitise and preserve one of the world’s most important botanical collections.

4th August 2025

Carys Jennings, with light brown hair and a pair of glasses on the top of her head

Research image of the month - a ripple of understanding

This month’s research image of the month (July 2025) encapsulates Carys Jennings' research on how children experience happiness, particularly in a school setting.

24th July 2025

OU awarded funding to support world-class doctoral training

The Open University has been awarded funding from the Arts and Humanities Research Council to train postgraduate researchers in creative economy and arts and humanities.

23rd July 2025

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