World-leading research

Oxford is a world-leading centre for research across the disciplines of the social sciences. Characterised by a wide range of methodologies, themes and fields of scholarship, multi-disciplinary research and innovative ideas thrive in an environment underpinned by excellence across the disciplines of the social sciences. Our size and shape mean that we are well placed to respond, and contribute, to many of the challenges and themes emerging from funding bodies and government.

Discover our...

A graphic image of bright, multi coloured irregular segments.

RESEARCH EXCELLENCE

A graphic image of bright, multi coloured irregular segments.

COLLABORATION AND ENGAGEMENT

A graphic image of bright, multi coloured irregular segments.

IMPACT

Find out more

Hand holding a tree sappling

Research and Impact Strategy 2023 - 2028

REF 2021 logo orange and grey

Social Sciences Division REF 2021

Research news highlights

The UN headquarters against a bright blue sky, with a row of national flags in the foreground

Professor Shazia Choudhry named as the UK's candidate for the UN's Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women

ERC Advanced grants

Oxford social scientists among Europe's 'outstanding' research leaders to receive ERC Advanced Grants

Men and women carrying objects such as a cog, a megaphone, a lightbulb, jigsaw pieces and a test tube with green liquid in, over a jigsaw bridge linking to buildings.

Bridging the gap between research and local policy: Local Policy Lab launches

A male academic addresses a room full of researchers who listening to him attentively, and seated around tables that are covered in pens and paper, brainstorming activities, and lunch

Finding Common Ground on climate change and health

Thematic research spotlights

AI and Society

AI and Society: Why do social sciences matter?

Close-up image of U.S. dollar bill texture with bold white text in the center reading "INEQUALITY AND POVERTY."

Inequality and Poverty: How can social sciences make a difference?

A view of the earth from space, superimposed with the title "climate change: why do social sciences matter?"

Climate change and resource management

Title COVID-19: How are social sciences making a difference? superimposed on a black and white image of a high street with a few people wearing face masks

COVID-19: How are social sciences making a difference?