Development studies research
Explore the work we're doing across our two areas of expertise in Development Studies
In 1949, the 33rd president of the United States, Harry Truman, said in his inauguration speech that 'more than half the people of the world are living in conditions approaching misery.' From crippling poverty and lack of resources, to inequality and human rights abuse – for the most vulnerable, every day brings more suffering.
Through our research in Development Studies, we're using our expertise to find new ways to tackle these problems, and exploring how to make the world a better place.
Alongside the governments, communities, and people of developing countries, we're looking at ways to encourage growth in stagnant economies, and helping develop the sustainable technology needed to provide vital resources to developing countries. We're also working to improve the health and wellbeing of under-resourced communities.
Our research is breaking down barriers of poverty, disease, and civil turmoil caused by natural disasters and conflict – by investigating how aid workers, charities and non-government organisations (NGOs) can most effectively work within the cultures and communities of developing nations, and by understanding how gender, ethnicity or religion impacts the lives of people around the world.
Explore our Development Studies areas of expertise
Find out more about the facilities and research methods that shape our research in the areas below – and learn more about our recent projects, the academic and industrial partners with whom we collaborate, and the major funders who fund our work.
Development theory, policy and practice
We're using our expertise to tackle gender and ethnic inequality, shield the most vulnerable from turmoil, and find solutions to the sustainable growth challenges.
Women and Development, Women And War
We're focusing on gender, and researching how the Cold War and migration in East Asia may be experienced by women and men differently.
Research groups
Women's and Gender Studies Research Group
We're researching violence against women and girls, access to justice, peace-building and conflict resolution.
Peace Conflict and Security Research Group
We're researching the complex reality of the struggles over the meaning of security, citizenship and rights.
Interested in a PhD in Development Studies?
Browse our postgraduate research degrees – including PhDs and MPhils – at our Area Studies postgraduate research degrees page.