The University of Northampton is committed to delivering outstanding life-changing research, underpinned by a culture of entrepreneurship and social enterprise recognised around the world for its originality and impact.
In the latest Research Assessment Exercise (2008), the University of Northampton entered nine Units of Assessment (subject areas). Of those, four were recognised as being of 'World-leading Research': Business and Management; Education; Health; and History. The remaining five were of 'International Excellence': Art and Design; Asian Studies; Dance, Drama and Performing Arts; English; and Leather and Materials.
The University undertakes research in all the main areas of academic activity. Our staff are active researchers and consultants, bringing real-world experiences and insight into the University to share with their students. We are also proud of our many partnership arrangements, which link businesses and organisations with staff and students.
Our current and recent research includes:
Lung cancer and radon gas
Visiting Professor Tony Denman and Professor Paul Phillips in the School of Science and Technology look at the interaction between smoking and radon gas and incidence of lung cancer.
Young people's experience of housing developments
Funded by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC), Associate Professor John Horton from the School of Social Sciences studies young people's access to services in urban areas.
The genetics of musculoskeletal conditions
Dr Stuart Raleigh from the School of Health and colleagues from South Africa have patented a test for genetic conditions that affect the tendons in the foot.
Information and communication technology
Professor Nada K Kakabadse in the Northampton Business School examines the information and communication technology (ICT) impact on the individual, business and society.
Mental health and special education
The School of Education is researching the mental health of young people with special educational needs in residential special schools.
E-Waste and developing countries
Based in the School of Science and Technology, Professor Margaret Bates and her team regularly visit Africa to train the waste sector on ways to harvest precious metals without harming their health or the environment. Funded by the British Council, the project has led to relationships with companies such as Dell and Phillips, as well as the Kenyan Minister for Environment.
Cult TV Cultures Network
Dr Lorna Jowett, Reader in the School of Arts, will bring together academics from across the UK to explore cult television through this Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC)-funded project.
