Arts and Humanities research
A vibrant culture of collaboration underpins our research in the Faculty of Arts and Humanities. Almost three quarters of our research was classed as world-leading or internationally excellent in the most recent Research Excellence Framework – a measure of its reach beyond academic circles and impact on the wider world. Explore our research centres and projects to see how we’re working with others to bring influential new ideas to light.
1st in Scotland
for research impact in Communications, Cultural and Media Studies
REF 2014
100% of research impact
in History rated as world-leading or internationally excellent
REF 2014
1st in Scotland
for research publications in Law
REF 2014
100% of research
environment in English rated as world-leading or internationally excellent
REF 2014
Research spotlight
Take a closer look at just some of the major research projects staff from the Faculty of Arts and Humanities have been working on.

Beyond natural science
Led by staff from our Philosophy department, this international collaboration has received more than $800,000 in funding to help explore how we should think of our knowledge and ourselves.

Rediscovering James Hogg
Explore our in-depth research into Scottish author James Hogg – a collaboration that has brought together international partners and attracted £400,000 in funding from the Arts and Humanities Research Council.

Preserving global heritage
Read more about our partnership with Historic Environment Scotland and The Forbidden City in China to learn how our heritage expertise is helping to preserve vital sites around the world.

Equality in the EU
Politics Professor Paul Cairney is part of the IMAJINE consortium – a major project funded by the European Commission to address spatial justice and territorial inequalities in Europe.

Historical short courses
Tap into our experts' knowledge by letting them guide you in person through key historical sites in central and eastern Scotland. Choose from multiple short course options to find your perfect itinerary.

Research seminars
We run a regular programme of seminars within the Faculty of Arts and Humanities, sharing our latest research and inviting guest speakers to do the same.
Research centres
We have six distinct Centres within the Faculty of Arts and Humanities that act as hubs of interdisciplinary research and teaching. Take a closer look at each one for more information about our work.
Research areas
While our Centres naturally act as interdisciplinary research hubs, there are many other research projects being undertaken within the Faculty of Arts and Humanities at any one time. Explore the areas below for a detailed look at the wide variety of research taking place.