Skip to main content

Making a difference

Research is at its strongest when it extends beyond discovery and contributes meaningfully to the world.

This means developing new technologies, treatments or interventions. At other times, it can involve shaping public policy, informing professional practice, or creating new businesses from intellectual property.

Oxford researchers work with partners locally, nationally and globally to turn ideas into practical solutions – supporting healthier lives, more resilient communities, a sustainable environment, and a dynamic economy. 

This work takes many forms, it includes fostering innovation and engagement, supporting spinout companies, and understanding and strengthening the economic and societal contribution of research. Oxford’s approach is guided by responsible research, knowledge exchange, engagement and impact (RKEEI) – a framework that shapes how we translate research into real-world benefit.

Explore how Oxford research is making a difference to communities, economies and the global challenges that matter most.

Innovation Building

Knowledge exchange

The University of Oxford is the world’s oldest English-speaking university, has been at the forefront of research, scholarship and innovation for over 850 years and is today a vibrant hub of internationally-leading work spanning all aspects of science, medicine, the social sciences and humanities.

Old Road Campus

Spinout companies

The University of Oxford has adopted best practice approaches which align with the recommendations of the independent review of university spin-out companies.