College of Science and Engineering

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School of Computing

Technology plays a vital part in our every day lives. It provides a channel for opportunities to develop how we communicate, educate, entertain, buy and sell products and develop healthcare systems. Join us to be at the forefront of emerging industry needs and opportunities.

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School of Engineering

Engineers help tackle problems and play a key role in laying the foundations for the future of our country and the world. Our expertise in applied mechatronics, sustainable construction materials, net zero energy and zero emissions transport will help to create a sustainable future.

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School of Science

The world needs science more than ever. We're focused on improving the health and security of individuals and society, as well as tackling the most prevalent challenges faced all over the world. Our work helps to detect and combat disease, unravel criminal cases and solve climate change.

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School of Sport and Exercise Science

Sport and Exercise Science provides a platform for success with performance sport, exercise, and health and well-being, driving performance and improving peoples’ quality of life. With our expert staff, exciting research and industry engaged provision, we can make a significant impact.

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Question. Understand. Change.

As scientists and engineers, we’re naturally curious about our world. By asking three key questions - how does it happen? why does it happen? what impact does it have? — we can investigate almost anything, including some of the biggest challenges we face today, such as:

Once we understand these issues better and what their impacts are, we can take action and call for change. We are in a position to help make the world greener, healthier, safer and more productive. If that inspires you, then we hope you'll join us - either as a student, staff member, researcher or collaborator.

College of Science and Engineering News

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Fuelling the future on Earth Day - how researchers are making a difference

University of Derby academics and students comment on the urgent need for ‘greener’ energy sources for Earth Day 2025

Posted: 17 April 2025
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UK’s first long Covid anti-viral drug trials underway five years on

A ground-breaking research project looking to find a treatment for symptoms of long Covid is underway, as the nation marks five years since the start of the pandemic.

Posted: 2 April 2025
Senior Lecturer in Entertainment Engineering Jon Burton on stage at HELA launch event
World’s first safe listening certification launches, setting new standard for live events

The live event industry is set to transform with the launch of the HELA (Healthy Ears, Limited Annoyance) Certification, the world's first initiative aimed at promoting best practices for responsible sound management at live events. 

Posted: 3 March 2025
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Derby academics ranked among most cited scientists

Academics at the University of Derby have been ranked amongst the most highly-cited scientists in the world, according to research by Stanford University, with eight current members of staff from Derby in the top 4% of scientists.

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New Institute of Technology will lead the UK's Digital and Green Revolution

The University of Derby, Loughborough College, Loughborough University and the Derby College Group (DCG) will work together on the new Institute, which will create the highly advanced workforce needed to lead the digital revolution – otherwise known as Industry 4.0.

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Our research centres

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Built Environment Research Group

The Built Environment Research Cluster (BERC) is a group of academics and researchers working towards achieving net-zero carbon in the construction industry and buildings. 

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Data Science Research Centre

Data is all around us. Our new Data Science Research Centre is exploring pioneering ways to manage, process, analyse and obtain intelligence from this data for maximum impact.

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Institute for Innovation in Sustainable Engineering

We achieve cutting-edge solutions to challenges small and medium-sized enterprises are facing and support advanced manufacturing and engineering companies.

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Rail Research and Innovation Centre

This Centre supports collaborative research and innovation projects with rail supply chains. The objective is to drive up productivity, sustainability and growth.

an image of multiple plants against a black background. Nature at Dawn, Photo credit: Stephanie Rushton

Recognised for 'World-leading' research

The University of Derby is delivering world-leading and internationally excellent research in Education, according to the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021 results. The University submitted 27 Case Studies demonstrating how research has impacted business and society across its core subjects.

REF 2021 resultsREF 2021 results

Our services and facilities

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Our Services

We're committed to using our research and knowledge, expertise and resources to inspire and develop the businesses of today and tomorrow.

Sports Centre
Our Facilities

Our industry-standard facilities include a fantastic sports centre, forensic house, custody suite, courtroom and two NHS-standard hospital wards.

Dr Chris Bussell

Professor Chris Bussell
Pro Vice-Chancellor and Dean, College of Science and Engineering

Chris's academic field is in human physiology, with particular focus on responses and adaptation to high performance and health outcomes arising through increased participation in physical activity.

Email
c.bussell@derby.ac.uk
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Take a virtual tour

Can’t make it to our Open Day in person? Don’t worry, our virtual tour is the next best thing. Explore the University of Derby from wherever you are in the world and catch a glimpse of your new student life.

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