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RESEARCH GROUPS

The Unit leads three of the University’s multidisciplinary research themes (MDRTs) which bring together researchers from across departments and specialities creating unique, collective expertise to address key regional, national and global societal challenges. Within these three MDRTs are our five research groups, each targeting one or more of the UN’s sustainable development goals. These align across four departments within the University. The diagram below illustrates the Unit’s organisation, click on each of the boxes to find out more. 



MDRT Extreme Environments

Within this MDRT are the research groups: 

  • Cold and Palaeo Environments (33%*) (SDG 13**) – aligns with the Departments of: Mathematics, Physics and Electrical Engineering; Applied Sciences; Geography and Environmental Sciences 
  • Solar-Terrestrial Science (15%) (SDG 13) – aligns with the Department of: Mathematics, Physics and Electrical Engineering


MDRT BioDesign for the Bioeconomy

Within this MDRT is the research group: 

MDRT Global Development Futures

Within this MDRT are the research groups: 

Sustainable Development Goals

1. No Poverty; 5. Gender Equality; 8. Decent Work and Economic Growth; 10. Reduced Inequalities; 11. Sustainable Cities and Communities; 12. Responsible Consumption and Production; 13. Climate Action; 15. Life on Land

*Percentages indicate proportion of total staff 

**Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) which the group targets



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Page last reviewed: 22 July 2026

Next review due: 22 July 2027

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