Research
Recognised globally for the benefit we deliver through our research
Our ambition is that we will be distinguised by our research strengths and recognized globally for the social, economic and cultural benefit we deliver through our research.
Research in SSESW combines five core disciplinary strengths, in Criminology, Education, Social Policy, Social Work and Sociology, so that we proudly proclaim, and see ourselves as key advocates for, the worth and value of the Social Sciences. In addition to promoting the strength of our core disciplines, we are committed to multidisciplinary work that can address local and global challenges, and to creativity and innovation in research agendas and methodologies.
Much of our research is world leading and has influenced policy and practice locally, nationally and globally in many areas including education, criminal justice, the wellbeing of children, social cohesion and mental health. Research in the school is organised around five interdisciplinary research themes: Health, Wellbeing and Inclusion; Children, Young People and Families, Policy and Practice; Crime and Criminal Justice; Contested Societies; and Education: Advancing Understanding, Improving Outcomes.
Professor Joanne Hughes, Director of Research
Research Areas
Featured Projects
Improving Scrutiny of and Knowledge of Police
QUB is driving forward public policy debates in relation police stop and search powers. By examining the history, context and scale of this police practice, such research enhances a deeper understanding of how stop and search is used Northern Ireland’s post-conflict setting. Particularly regarding children and young people, the research is providing new empirical data with national and international significance.
Improving attainment by using SMART Spaces
Dr Liam O’Hare leads a collaboration between a team of researchers at QUB and teachers in the Hallam Teaching School Alliance. The team have developed a programme called SMART Spaces for use during GSCE science revision classes, currently being trialled across England in 160 disadvantaged schools with over 14,000 pupils participating.
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Research Centres and Institutes
Our mechanisms for research delivery include a number of interdisciplinary Research Centres, Research Networks and Institutes
- Our Impact
87% of research in Education and 76% of research in Social Work and Social Policy was assessed in REF 2014 as either 'Internationally Excellent or World-Leading', with Education ranked 4th in the UK for Research Intensity and Social Work and Social Policy ranked 11th.
- Collaborations and Current Projects
Our academics work collaboratively with an array of international partner organisations to be at the forefront of innovative social research.
- Environment and Support
We provide the flexibility for talent to flourish, underpinned by our Graduate School and the Queen’s University Fellowship Scheme.
- Postgraduate Research
Are you interested in doctoral study in the school of Social Sciences, Education and Social Work? Search for PhD supervisors.