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

Rajiv Prabhakar, wearing a light-coloured shirt and a blue jumper, standing in front of trees

Shortlisted for research into gender pension gap in THE Awards 2024

An OU academic has been shortlisted in this year’s Times Higher Education (THE) Awards 2024 for research into the gender pension gap.

12th September 2024
OSC Challenge Us! Competition 2024

OU research challenged to collaborate to drive sustainable change

UK charities and Milton Keynes businesses have challenged The Open University to collaborate with them to solve some of society’s most pressing issues.

10th September 2024
Two young girls crouching down by a stream and looking at things in it

£922,000 grant for transforming education through haptic touch experiences

Professor Advaith Siddharthan's new project, 'Feeling the Untouchable: Haptic touch experiences for naturalistic learning' has just received a £922,000 grant through round one of UKRI’s highly competitive cross-council responsive mode scheme to explore how children could experience and learn about the natural world through touch.

5th September 2024
Bart Rienties, wearing an orange top and a bike helmet, riding a bike on a road lined with bushes

Challenging misconceptions about transplant recipients' abilities

In an effort to challenge long-held misconceptions about the physical capabilities of transplant recipients, a team led by Professor Bart Rienties from The Open University is conducting innovative research that could transform the medical and public understanding of transplant recipients' potential for physical activity. 

22nd August 2024
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