Research at The Open University

Research with real-world impact

At The Open University, research is not just about discovery – it’s about transforming lives, influencing policy, and addressing societal challenges. Our research excellence is recognised internationally, and our work contributes to knowledge, practice and policy across Ireland, the UK and globally. 

We work collaboratively with academic partners, governments, community organisations and industry to tackle pressing issues, create evidence-based insights and share discoveries openly for maximum impact. 

 

Our research themes

The Open University’s research activity is challenge-led and impact-focused. Across disciplines and projects, we contribute to understanding and solutions in areas that matter most: 

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Living well

We investigate what it takes for individuals and communities to thrive – from health and wellbeing interventions to social support systems – grounded in evidence and shaped with communities. 

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Tackling inequalities

OU researchers work on projects that explore discrimination, unequal access to rights and services, and social exclusion. Our work aims to support fairer opportunities and outcomes for all communities. 

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Sustainability

Climate change, environmental justice and sustainable futures are interdisciplinary priorities. Our research draws on science, technology, social science and policy to inform a more sustainable and equitable future. 

Ireland-relevant research examples

We support research that is relevant to communities and policy in Ireland. For example:

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Open Research

We champion open research practices, making data, findings and insights available wherever possible to maximise transparency, reuse and public benefit. 

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Comparative policy research with PolicyWISE

The OU leads PolicyWISE, the first UK-Ireland academic network for comparative public policy research and knowledge exchange. This initiative helps policymakers and civic leaders tackle complex social and economic issues across nations. 

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Next Generation

The Open University has a commitment to fostering a more diverse staff and research student population to bring a broad range of perspectives and experiences to our research.

Collaborations and partnerships 

Our researchers work with institutions across Ireland, the UK, Europe and beyond. Partnerships extend research reach and deepen connections between academic knowledge and real-world problems.

Research repositories

Open Research Online (ORO) provides open access to OU publications and outputs, making research widely available to students, practitioners and the public.

Supporting the next generation

We are committed to building research capacity and diversity. The OU fosters environments where early career researchers, postgraduate students and interdisciplinary teams can flourish, bringing fresh perspectives to complex problems.

Get involved

Whether you’re and established researcher, student, policymaker or community partner, there are many ways to engage with OU research: 

  • Explore ongoing research projects and publications
  • Collaborate with researchers across disciplines
  • Access open data and outputs via ORO
  • Join research events and knowledge exchange forums 

Find out more about how our research is shaping understanding, policy and practice at The Open University's main research hub.