The scope of research at the ¶¶Òõ¶ÌÊÓƵ spans all 17 of the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Research and expertise
Find out about our internationally renowned research and expertise at the ¶¶Òõ¶ÌÊÓƵ
Addressing global research challenges



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
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.
ICONIC: Intergenerational Codesign Of Novel technologies in Coastal communities
Improving digital inclusion and fostering intergenerational connection in isolated regions with new technology
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.
Driving research and innovation from the South West

Entrepreneurial Futures


Delivering solutions-focused research in life sciences
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.
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.
Sustainable Earth Institute
Science, engineering, arts, humanities, health and business, with community, businesses and individuals, innovate to build resilience for our planet.
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Latest news
- University celebrates a decade of funding for brain tumour research 13 March 2025
- Increased rainfall and vegetation changes result in sediment shifts at the Roof of the World 12 March 2025
- Study explores effects of climatic changes on Christmas Island’s red crabs 11 March 2025
- University helps to lead calls for investment in coastal communities 10 March 2025
- Accelerating action this International Women’s Day 7 March 2025

Upcoming academic and research events
- Increasing the visibility of exclusion from school 18 March 2025 14:00 - 16:00
- The MAIR (Masters in International Relations) Research Seminar Series 19 March 2025 13:00 - 14:00
- Plymouth Institute of Health and Care Research (PIHR) seminars 20 March 2025 12:00 - 13:00
- Cochrane – PIHR Research Priority Methods Setting Webinar Series 20 March 2025 12:00 - 13:00
- Plymouth Institute of Health and Care Research (PIHR) seminars 20 March 2025 13:00 - 14:30
