Research

Our research earns grants and investments totalling tens of millions of pounds and attracts top researchers from around the world.

In the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021 90% of our research was found to be world-leading or internationally excellent making us a top 20 university in the UK for the overall quality of our research. Our inclusive approach to supporting research excellence across all disciplines was achieved by supporting Cardiff researchers to deliver research that matters. This was evidenced by a 100% submission and significant growth of our research community over the REF 2021 period.

We're part of the Russell Group of 24 leading research intensive UK universities. Our research staff are world-class and include Nobel Laureates, Fellows of the Royal Society and members of other prestigious institutions.

Our research expertise and facilities are used by industry and commercial partners, government bodies and other organisations internationally.  We help to generate business ideas and spin-out companies and contribute to economic growth and job creation in Wales and beyond. Our research contracts have a total value of £500M.

We have created major Research Institutes to pursue new scientific approaches to some of the world's most pressing concerns.