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

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
Petrol pump display

US defies forecasts of economic slowdown, but it's growth isn't making ordinary people better off

US economic growth is picking up again after a slowdown towards the end of 2025. According to price data released on May 28, US GDP grew by 1.6% year-on-year in the first quarter of 2026

10th June 2026
Erica Borgstrom with long dark hair and a flowery black and white top, standing next to Rebecca L. Jones, who is wearing glasses, a white t-shirt and a red jacket, with a light and dark blue background

Reimagining sexuality, ageing and death

In their inaugural lectures on 3 June 2026, Professors Rebecca L. Jones and Erica Borgstrom delivered two inaugural lectures exploring how we understand sexuality and ageing, death and grief.

2nd June 2026
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