Why the turtle?

You may have noticed that the University of Derby turtle appears in many of our adverts around the world. But do you know why?

Scientific models suggest that 90% of the planet's coral reefs will be extinct by 2030.

Although the University of Derby is not by the coast, Michael Sweet, Professor of Molecular Ecology, has developed a pioneering technique which coaxes corals to reproduce. In the wild, corals spawn once a year at night just after a full moon. These baby corals can then be transferred onto damaged reeds, paving the way for international conservation efforts and ultimately saving precious marine life, including the beloved turtle.

Our students are at the heart of this project and are working alongside academic researchers to share this important knowledge with other organisations and institutions across the world. This research will have a game-changing impact on coral reef restoration.

The turtle symbolises our research ethos to build a better future for everyone, and this image acts as a constant reminder that through our work we are making a powerful, direct and measurable impact on the world.

The University of Derby is turning the tide in the world of aquatic research. The story of coral spawning, which took place at our Aquatic Research Facility, was recently featured in The Times. Our research is also having an impact in health, long-Covid, the arts, criminology, psychology, energy, law, artificial intelligence and many other fields.

The future is you.

Person looking into fishtanks in the Aqua Research Facility

Our Aquatic Research Facility

Our Aquatic Research Facility offers our students a unique opportunity to participate in high-level research and work with some of the world leaders in the field of aquarium and zoo research.

Find out more about the AQFFind out more about the AQF
Image of Coral reef
Conserving coral reefs in the face of climate change

Researchers at the University of Derby have developed an innovative technique for inducing the spawning of corals in captivity for the first time.

Student labelling plants for her Biology course
Biology and Zoology courses

With a strong emphasis on applying scientific knowledge to real-world problems, our courses offer you the chance to specialise in an increasingly important environmental field.

diver among the coral
How we're helping corals survive

Coral reefs are dying off at an alarming rate. Our Aquatic Research Facility is carrying out work with organisations across the globe to make corals more resilient in the face of man-made afflictions.

Scenic coastal line.
Environmental Sustainability Research Centre

The Environmental Sustainability Research Centre (ESRC) provides students, academics, government agencies, industry and business with exciting opportunities to contribute to urgent global challenges.

Fish within corals.
Research on coral reef conservation

Coral Reefs are the most diverse aquatic ecosystems on the planet but are suffering from a multitude of threats including global climate change.

Funghi growing in a lab.
Environmental news

Our students, staff and visitors all contribute to the University's environmental impact and we aim to bring environmental sustainability into all aspects of the University.

Plants against a black background.

Innovation and research

We are an applied research University that places research at the heart of our curriculum, demonstrates positive impacts for society and works with industry to drive business growth.

Explore how our research makes an impactExplore how our research makes an impact