Research in the College of Health, Science and Society

The College of Health, Science and Society (CHSS) brings together experts from Applied Sciences; Education and Childhood; Health and Social Wellbeing; and Social Sciences.

The College has a vibrant research culture organised primarily through research centres, groups and institutes.

Research centres

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Centre for Appearance Research

The world's largest research group focusing on the role of appearance, body image and visible difference in people's lives.

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Centre for Biomedical Research

Incorporating world-class research in the fields of human health and disease, biosensors and diagnostics, and workforce and practice development in biomedicine.

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Centre for Health and Clinical Research

Bringing together researchers working in the fields of long-term conditions, palliative and supportive care, and emergency care, to inform knowledge mobilisation across the lifespan.

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Centre for Public Health and Wellbeing

Connecting experts from mental health sciences; children and young people; emergency and critical care; public health and wellbeing; health, ethics and society and evaluative research.

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Centre for Sustainable Agri-Food and Environment

Pairing rigorous research with real-world translation to improve human and animal health, protect ecosystems, and deliver fair, sustainable prosperity.

Illustration of 8 multi-coloured cogs representing the core activities of the Science Communication Unit: Research, Engagement, Communication, Creativity, Vision, Idea, Concept and Inclusivity.

Science Communication Unit

Internationally renowned for its diverse and innovative activities, designed to engage the public with science.

Research groups

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Education and Childhood Research Group

Research within ECRG encompasses four established and emerging research theme strands.

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Psychological Sciences Research Group

The Psychological Sciences Research Group conducts applied research that has a positive influence on people and places; at home, in the workplace, and in the wider social environment.

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Social and Public Policy Research Group

The Social and Public Policy Research Group is a multidisciplinary, applied research group that focuses on conducting and applying social science research to the real world.

Institute

Institute of Bio-Sensing Technology

Industry and academia working together to develop novel bio-sensing technologies.

Research links and collaboration

Many projects are undertaken in collaboration with end-users to focus on meeting the needs of a sustainable economy and society, and we have leadership roles in several major regional, national and international initiatives.

Our collaborators include health trusts, local, national and international communities, local councils, government departments and private companies - ranging from start-ups to multinationals, patients and their carers, museums and schools.

A key collaboration is Bristol Health Partners, of which we are a member along with the University of Bristol, Bristol City Council and six NHS organisations serving the area.

The Journal of Psycho-Social Studies is an established international e-journal, edited by Dr Elizabeth Frost. Discover scholarly articles, new ideas and book reviews in the field of Psycho-Social Studies.

Research ethics and governance

We have a Research Ethics Committee that is committed to promoting high ethical standards in the conduct of research undertaken by our staff and students.

Research development

The extent of research development in the College was underlined by the results of the 2014 Research Excellence Framework when it led UWE Bristol submissions in:

  • Allied Health Professions and Nursing (79% of the submissions deemed world-leading or internationally excellent).
  • Agricultural, Veterinary and Food Science (63% world-leading or internationally excellent).
  • Politics and International Studies (34% world-leading or internationally excellent).
  • Social Work and Social Policy (46% world-leading or internationally excellent).
  • Philosophy (43% world-leading or internationally excellent).

Our research is funded by a wide range of organisations including the UK Research and Innovation, European Commission and the National Health Service.

Professor Olena Doran
Associate Dean, Research

Transforming tomorrow, today.

Our unique approach to research, innovation, skills, enterprise and just and ethical practices is driving societal improvements and transforming futures for the better.

RISE

Postgraduate research study options

Our Doctoral Academy offers you the opportunity to contribute to our dynamic and leading edge research.

Postgraduate research study

Research by school

Students conducting lab research

Research in the School of Applied Sciences

The School of Applied Sciences is active in many areas of research and has established research projects attracting funding from various bodies, both in the UK and abroad. 

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Research in the School of Education and Childhood

There is strength and diversity in the programme of educational research and evaluation at UWE Bristol. A broad range of substantive areas of enquiry is sponsored by a wide range of funding bodies.

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Research in the School of Health and Social Wellbeing

The School of Health and Social Wellbeing engages in a diverse programme of transformative research that has real world impact.

Psychology students conducting research

Research in the School of Social Sciences

The School of Social Sciences is active in many research areas, with real-world impact. Our research projects attract national and international funding.