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.

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Research at The Open University

Research news and articles

A group of people walking in a mall

Teenagers are preparing for the jobs of 25 years ago – and schools are missing the AI revolution

The government has recently released its national youth strategy, which promises better career advice for young people in England.

17th December 2025
A black and white x-ray image of cells

Fellowship to advance research on drug-resistant hospital infections

Dr Ilias Kounatidis, from the School of Life, Health and Chemical Sciences, has been awarded a prestigious fellowship grant from the UK’s national synchrotron facility, Diamond Light Source.

16th December 2025
A woman holding a child's hand, both wearing backpacks, in an airport looking out of the window at the planes on the tarmac

Parental child abduction: why extending criminalisation is not the answer

The government is proposing a change in the law on parental child abduction. The crime and policing bill, under consideration in parliament, would make it a crime for a parent to take their child on holiday and then not return them at the end of the agreed holiday period.

9th December 2025
Olivier De Schutter, wearing a blue top and a suit jacket, standing in front of buildings

Eradicating poverty without growth: can it be done?

The Open University hosted its second lecture in its Global Development Annual Lecture series on 20 November 2025.

27th November 2025