Research excellence

One of the world’s leading research universities, Edinburgh is ranked fourth in the UK for research power, based on the quality and breadth of our research.

Be at the forefront of international research

As a student with us you will work with some of the most influential academics in your chosen field and learn about the very latest developments in your subject.

We have an international reputation for innovative research across a wide range of disciplines.

Some of our current research activities include stem cells and regenerative therapies, renewable energy and wave and tidal-stream power, and intellectual property and technology law.

Research power

Edinburgh’s position as one of Britain’s leading research universities has been reaffirmed by the results of the 2014 Research Excellence Framework (REF2014).

Based on the quality and breadth of our research, we have been rated fourth in the UK and by far the most successful university in Scotland.

The REF2014 results showed that 83% of our research activity is in the highest categories (4* and 3*), which are classified as ‘world leading’ or ‘internationally excellent’.

Research impact

Edinburgh is also one of a select group of British universities to achieve outstanding results when demonstrating the impact of its research on wider society.

More than half of our research in this category has been classed as 'world leading'.

A series of case studies highlights the extensive regional, national and global impact of our current research.

Record levels of investment

In 2012/13 we attracted record levels of investment for our pioneering research work.

The total value of competitive research grants was £300 million, including awards from government, the EU, research councils, charities and industry. This is 20% more than the £250 million we secured in 2011/12.