Bradford University Highlights Key Research Projects of 2025

Innovative studies across health, technology, and heritage

The University of Bradford has released its Annual Research and Innovation Report for 2025, detailing a variety of ongoing projects that span health sciences, artificial intelligence, environmental sustainability, and cultural heritage. The report outlines significant advancements that may influence both local and global communities in the coming years.

Health and Medical Technology Developments

• Nanotechnology for Bone Healing: Researchers at Bradford are developing injectable nanotech implants designed to generate electrical signals from body movement. This technology aims to accelerate bone repair without the need for surgery, targeting conditions such as osteoporosis and fragility fractures. The project is supported by a £2.2 million UKRI Future Leaders Fellowship grant. Additionally, the technology has potential applications in creating batteryless pacemakers.
• AI Concussion Detection App: An artificial intelligence application developed at Bradford assists in detecting concussions in boxers during training and matches. This tool seeks to reduce the risk of severe brain injury in contact sports and has been featured on BBC TechNow and in industry publications.
• Improving Glaucoma Diagnosis: A project funded with £1.18 million is advancing eye health diagnostics by converting standard eye scans into three-dimensional images. This technique aims to reduce misdiagnosis rates and potentially save costs within the NHS.
• Medieval Teeth Analysis: Examination of dentine from 275 skeletons dating back to the Black Death period provides insights into childhood malnutrition and its effects on survival during the plague. The findings may offer relevant information for current public health understanding.

Environmental and Technological Innovations

• Tyre Recycling Techniques: Polymer researchers at Bradford have developed a process that recycles old tyres into new products containing up to 75% recycled material. This method addresses the global issue of tyre waste and contributes to environmental sustainability.
• Portable Biometric Scanner: Engineers have created a device that combines 3D facial imaging with advanced fingerprint analysis. The portable scanner is intended to enhance border security through improved biometric identification.

Heritage and Social Research

• Submerged Landscapes Research: Using sonar and underwater drones, the Submerged Landscapes Research Centre investigates prehistoric coastal settlements lost to rising sea levels. This research sheds light on human life from approximately 12,000 years ago and informs heritage conservation efforts.
• Immersive Technology and Local History: A project titled ‘Stories from Valley Parade’ employs 3D modelling and virtual reality combined with community narratives to preserve and present the heritage of Bradford City Football Club.
• Exploring Underrepresented Voices: Researchers are applying dialogical methods to study trauma and empowerment among marginalized groups, with the aim of influencing policy and practice related to gender-based violence support.
• Pharmaceutical Supply Chain Study in Tanzania: A study mapping medicine waste in Tanzania identifies systemic challenges and contributes to developing sustainable solutions for health systems worldwide.

These projects collectively demonstrate the University of Bradford’s commitment to advancing knowledge and addressing complex challenges through interdisciplinary research.

For further details, the full report is available here.