News archive - 2015

Wolfson Foundation donates £2m towards future of science at Exeter

Exeter has received a £2 million gift from The Wolfson Foundation to support the establishment of a new Living Systems Institute, which will pioneer a new approach to treating the world’s most serious diseases.

Plastic pollution threatens one of the ocean’s key inhabitants

Microscopic plastic pollution, which is present throughout the world’s seas, could affect the feeding habits of one of the ocean’s key inhabitants.

Study reveals why geese adopt a ‘roller coaster strategy’ to combat life’s highs and lows

A new study has discovered that the world’s highest flying bird, the bar-headed goose, employs an unusual flight strategy when migrating at extreme altitudes across the Himalayas in order to cope in the relatively low-density mountain atmosphere.

Wild pollinators at risk from diseased commercial species of bee

A new study from the University of Exeter has found that viruses carried by commercial bees can jump to wild pollinator populations with potentially devastating effects. 

Doubt cast on global firestorm generated by dino-killing asteroid

Pioneering new research has debunked the theory that the asteroid that is thought to have led to the extinction of dinosaurs also caused vast global firestorms that ravaged planet Earth.

Exeter specialists work with Manchester United to revolutionise heart health

A unique research project to identify the effects of exercise on young hearts has been announced today.

Pasty-thefts: new evidence, usual suspects

When it comes to swooping-and-snatching, not all gulls are created equal.

Public invited to assist international aid efforts by mapping remote locations

Exeter students call for help to compile and digitise detailed maps of uncharted areas of the world

Exeter team to monitor impact of wild beavers on our waterways

A team at the University of Exeter is to study England’s only breeding population of wild beavers in order to understand their impact on pollution, flooding and water quality after an announcement yesterday.

James tells his story of surviving a traumatic brain injury

A man who suffered a traumatic brain injury (TBI) will describe his incredible experience and the challenges faced by himself and others at a special event at the University of Exeter on February 4.

You can be a coward or a fighter. Just pick one and stick with it, says study

When the chips are down, having a strong personality may be the difference between thriving and failing.

Plain packaging reduces ‘cigarette-seeking’ response by almost a tenth, says study

Plain tobacco packaging may reduce the likelihood of smokers seeking to obtain cigarettes by almost 10% compared to branded packs, according to research from the Universities of Exeter and Bristol.

Critical green turtle habitats identified in Mediterranean

A new study led by the University of Exeter has identified two major foraging grounds of the Mediterranean green turtle 

Night skies brightest in human history

Artificial sky glow around the world has been quantified for the first time by researchers using a global network of sky quality monitors.

Algae aid corals in their fight against climate change

Corals may be better equipped to tolerate climate change than previously believed, according to research led by the University of Exeter.

Seeking sanctuary:Refugee Week events

Encouraging people to take a positive look at asylum and celebrating the contributions of refugees in the UK forms the basis of Refugee Week.

Weekend evolution: Bacteria ‘hotwire their genes’ to fix a faulty motor

Scientists have found how simple bacteria can restart their ‘outboard motor’ by hotwiring their own genes.

Hormone disrupting chemicals and climate change increase the risk of population-level impacts in wildlife populations

The impact of pollution on wildlife could be made dramatically worse by climate change according to a new study published today in the journal PNAS. 

Tackling concussion with Exeter Chiefs

Specialists from the University of Exeter are working with Exeter Chiefs Rugby Club on a project to model what happens to the brain of a player when they are concussed in order to improve safety and manage the impact of injuries following head trauma.

‘No take zones’ in English Channel would benefit marine wildlife and the fishing industry

Marine conservationists are increasingly pinning their hopes on marine protected areas (MPAs) to save threatened species and reduce over-fishing.

First direct evidence that drought-weakened Amazonian forests ‘inhale less carbon’

For the first time, an international research team, including a tropical forest ecologist from the University of Exeter, has provided direct evidence of the rate at which individual trees in the Amazon Basin ‘inhale’ carbon from the atmosphere during a severe drought. 

Old mothers know best: killer whale study sheds light on the evolution of menopause

A new study led by the Universities of Exeter and York has shown that female killer whales survive after menopause because they help their family members find food during hard times. 

Being smart about SMART environmental targets

Successful environmental conservation needs to focus on the negotiation process, not just the end target.

Love, love me do: male beetles that have more sex are more insecure, study shows

Males that mate more often are more insecure about their social status than those mating less, according to new research on the behaviour of burying beetles.

Nature’s inbuilt immune defence could protect industrial bacteria from viruses

Findings from a new study that set out to investigate the evolution of immune defences could boost the development of industrial bacteria that are immune to specific viral infections.

Switch off the lights for bats

New research has discredited the popular belief that street lighting is attractive to common bats.

Light pollution shown to affect plant growth and food webs

Artificial night time light from sources such as street lamps affects the growth and flowering of plants and even the number of insects that depend on those plants for food.

Paul hopes to solve the mysteries of flamingo fatherhood

A researcher at the University of Exeter has launched a bid to analyse the DNA of a group of flamingos in order to answer some of the questions surrounding paternity and social behaviour in the distinctive pink birds.

Amazon’s carbon uptake declines as trees die faster

The most extensive land-based study of the Amazon to date reveals it is losing its capacity to absorb carbon from the atmosphere.

Part-night lighting is ineffective in capturing natural peaks in bat activity

Part-night lighting, a proposed mitigation option to reduce the negative impacts of light pollution, is unlikely to benefit bats, a study published this week confirms.

Policy makers should not discount the damages from future climate tipping points

Society should set a high carbon tax now to try and prevent climate change reaching a point of no return according to a new study. 

World-leading dementia research team joins the University of Exeter

A global figure in the field of dementia study has joined the University of Exeter to lead a new Centre for Research in Ageing and Cognitive Health (REACH).

A difficult climate: New study examines the media’s response to the IPCC

A study, published today in the journal Nature Climate Change, has for the first time analysed how Twitter, TV and newspapers reported the IPCC’s climate evidence.

Global Conversation: Exeter’s New Global Lecture Series

The University of Exeter has launched Global Conversation; a new international lecture series, showcasing some of the latest developments in world-leading research.

Short bouts of high-intensity exercise before a fatty meal best for promoting vascular health in youth

A short burst of intensive exercise before eating a high fat meal is better for blood vessel function in young people than the currently recommended moderate-intensity exercise.

Direct evidence for a positive feedback in climate change

A new study has confirmed the existence of a positive feedback operating in climate change whereby warming itself may amplify a rise in greenhouse gases resulting in additional warming.

Biodiversity damage mapped by global land-use study

Humanity’s use of land for agricultural production has come at a cost to local ecosystems worldwide, but some of the damage can be reversed.

Public urged to report basking shark sightings for new tracking project

The University of Exeter and the Marine Conservation Society are joining forces in an exciting new satellite tracking project to tag and follow basking sharks in Cornish waters.

Warming seas pose habitat risk for fishy favourites

Popular North Sea fish such as haddock, plaice and lemon sole could become less common on our menus because they will be constrained to preferred habitat as seas warm.

Mindfulness-based therapy could offer an alternative to antidepressants for preventing depression relapse

Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) could provide an alternative non-drug treatment for people who do not wish to continue long-term antidepressant treatment.

Online discussion forums good for well-being, study shows

A new study has found that internet discussion forums have positive links to well-being and are even associated with increased community engagement offline.

Work-life balance subject of TedxExeter talk

Professor Michelle Ryan will be taking to the stage at the hugely popular TedxExeter this Friday (24 April) to talk about work-life balance and issues of time and identity.

Water project scoops prestigious national award

A research project which showed how enhancing water storage on peat land can improve water quality and carbon storage – as well as releasing less water during times of flooding – has won a national award.

University adds to its Athena SWAN awards in 2015

The University added an additional award to its Athena SWAN tally this year with a Bronze for the Biosciences department at Exeter.

University of Exeter needs local people to hear or catch sight of a cuckoo

The people of Devon are being urged to get involved in the second phase of a project which is trying to map the movements of cuckoos.

New Zealand stoats provide an ark for genetic diversity

Extinct British genes have been preserved in the stoat population of New Zealand, a new study has found.

Climate change: how Brits feel about ‘smart’ energy

Reluctance to share data about personal energy use is likely to be a major obstacle when implementing ‘smart’ technologies.

New study shows parrotfish are critical to coral reef island building

Parrotfish, commonly found on healthy coral reefs, can also play a pivotal role in providing the sands necessary to build and maintain coral reef islands.

One percent of tree species in the Amazon forest account for half of its carbon

A new study published in the journal Nature Communications has discovered that fewer than 200 species of Amazonian tree, barely 1%, are responsible for half of all tree growth and carbon stored in the Amazon.

Male beetles up their game when they catch a whiff of competition

Male flour beetles increase their courtship effort and their sperm count if a female smells of other males according to a study published in the journal Behavioural Ecology.

Coastal light pollution disturbs marine animals, new study shows

Marine ecosystems can be changed by night-time artificial lighting according to new research.

Elderly crickets are set in their ways, study finds

As insects grow old their behaviour becomes increasingly predictable according to new research.

£3 million research centre will target disease

A new research centre will bring together experts in a diverse range of fields to tackle some of the greatest health issues of our time – and the public are being invited to get involved.

Mine’s a pint…. Of science

A festival which pulls science out of the lab and into the pub is coming to Exeter for the first time.

Grant success for University of Exeter researchers at Cornwall’s Wave Hub

University of Exeter researchers are part of the biodiversity research team of a new EUR 17 million EU Horizon 2020 funded project 

Mining pollution alters fish genetics in south west England

Pollution from historic mining activities in south west England has led to a reduction in genetic diversity of brown trout.

Research through the arts initiative breaks new ground in Exeter

An Arts Council England funded project called Exeter Enquires aims to engage a wider public in the innovative work and practise of academic-artistic collaboration.

Ecosystem management that ignores ‘taboo tradeoffs’ is likely to fail

Research published today recommends a new approach to the difficult tradeoffs that environmental managers face when choosing between environmental sustainability and profitability. 

On the trail of the clever snail

Animals, like humans, excel at some tasks but not others according to a new study published in the journal Scientific Reports

CLES success at the Teaching Awards 2015

Students, academics and staff from the University of Exeter and the Students' Guild gathered on 30 April to celebrate the 2015 Teaching Awards with the College of Life and Environmental Sciences winning 3 awards and placing as runner up in 3 categories.

Frogs face virus risk in garden ponds

Pond owners are being urged not to use garden chemicals, or to release goldfish into ponds.

Study reveals largest turtle breeding colony in the Atlantic

The Central African country of Gabon is providing an invaluable nesting ground for a vulnerable species of sea turtle 

Ladybird colours reveal their toxicity

For one of Britain’s best-loved and colourful group of insects, ladybirds, their colour reveals the extent of their toxicity.

Female scientists take to their soapboxes at free public event

A host of Devon’s leading female scientists will be taking to their soapboxes this week to showcase their fascinating science to the general public at a free event in Exeter city centre.

Teenagers should exercise like kids to achieve best health outcomes, study shows

As little as two minutes of high-intensity exercise four times a day improves health outcomes in adolescents, but the same amount of moderate-intensity exercise does not reap the same rewards.

Wild mongooses avoid inbreeding with unusual reproductive strategy

Mongooses can discriminate between relatives and non-relatives to avoid inbreeding 

Exeter researchers lead international initiative to face devastating crop disease

Exeter researchers lead international initiative to face devastating crop disease 

University of Exeter scientist elected President of the European Society for Evolutionary Biology (ESEB)

Professor Nina Wedell has been elected President of the European Society for Evolutionary Biology (ESEB) by its membership, and will serve as President Elect 2015-2017, President 2017-2019, and Past President 2019-2020.

Female scientists took to their soapboxes at city centre spectacle

A host of Devon’s leading female scientists took to their soapboxes at the weekend to showcase their fascinating science to the general public

Flamboyance of the flamingo explored in new book

They are among the most iconic and easily-recognisable animals anywhere in the world, and play a striking role in both art and popular culture throughout the ages. Now, the elegant and captivating flamingo is the subject of a fascinating new book, authored by a leading expert from the University of Exeter.

Local schools join the fight against bacterial resistance

Researchers from Biosciences will be working closely with school pupils from Newton Abbot College to discover new antibiotics from soil bacteria.

Exeter researchers and school pupils track ticks to reveal Lyme disease hotspots

University of Exeter researchers are set to work with local school pupils on a new study to explore the distribution of Lyme disease in the region. 

Study concludes that racehorses are getting faster

A new study from the University of Exeter has found that racehorses are getting quicker

Big Bang event creates an explosive atmosphere

This Year’s Big Bang South West Fair at the University of Exeter was a truly explosive event

Online computer game can help shed weight and reduce food intake

A simple new computerised game could help people control their snacking impulses and lose weight.

Think you know your cat? New study suggests not

Study finds pet owners reluctant to face up to their cats’ kill count

Monaco meeting considers Antarctica's future

ESI Director part of influential international group considering Antarctica's future and biodiversity.

Pesticide study shows that sexual conflict can maintain genetic variation

New research from the University of Exeter has shown that the sexually antagonistic gene for resistance to the pesticide DDT helps to maintain genetic variation. 

Humans across the world dance to the same beat

Study reveals a common beat in global music

Key element of human language discovered in bird babble

New study deciphers bird sounds to reveal language precursors in babbler birds

Devon pupils lead citizen science on plastic

Young people will take part in a unique outreach project in which they will lead and participate in a scientific research project on chemicals in plastic food packaging.

Genetic switch detects TNT

Cleaning-up post-war explosive chemicals could get cheaper and easier, using a new genetic ‘switch’ device.

Scientists warn of species loss due to man-made landscapes

Study found 35% fewer bird species in agricultural habitats.

Romeo and Juliet roles for banded mongooses

Mongooses take life-threatening risks to mate with partners from rival groups.

Study shows grey squirrels are quick learners

A new study from the University of Exeter has shown that grey squirrels are quick learners capable of adapting tactics to improve efficiency and reap the best rewards.

Brawling badgers age faster

Research reveals the strain of living with competitive males

Surfing for science

Scientists from the University of Exeter and Plymouth Marine Laboratory (PML) plan to use surfers to monitor the coastal environment.

Future looks gloomy for Robben Island penguins

Fish feast boosts penguin numbers.

University of Exeter’s inaugural Technical Services conference is a great success

On the 13th July, technical staff from all over the University gathered for our first ever technical services conference. This was designed with a particular focus on staff development and offered short training sessions in everything from wellbeing to research sustainability.

Exeter scientist planning to send microscopic worms into space

A University of Exeter scientist is set to send thousands of microscopic worms on a mission to the International Space Station (ISS) in an experiment aimed at increasing our understanding of what triggers the body to build and lose muscle.  

Selfishness lasts a lifetime, according to mongoose study

Researchers studying wild banded mongooses in Uganda have discovered that these small mammals have either cooperative or selfish personalities which last for their entire lifetime. 

Sleep makes our memories more accessible, study shows

Sleeping not only protects memories from being forgotten, it also makes them easier to access, according to new research from the University of Exeter and the Basque Centre for Cognition, Brain and Language.

Free online therapy for depression offered as part of exciting new research trial

Researchers from the University of Exeter have launched a large-scale research study to improve understanding of treatments that are currently offered to people with depression. 

Leading earth scientists release free educational application

Have you ever wondered how to make a volcano erupt in your front room, or wished you could make your own goo? You too can now take part in a variety of fun scientific experiments using the new, free, educational application ‘Libby’s Lab’.

Butterflies heat up the field of solar research

The humble butterfly could hold the key to unlocking new techniques to make solar energy cheaper and more efficient, pioneering new research has shown.

Two top Exeter researchers secure distinguished science award

Two world-leading scientists from the University of Exeter have been honoured with a prestigious national science award.

 

Researchers call for Crediton residents to pool flood info

Crediton residents have so far provided a wealth of information about flooding vulnerabilities around the town.

Crop pests outwit climate change predictions en route to new destinations

Researchers highlight the dangers of relying on climate-based projections of future crop pest distributions.

Targeting the early-teens for extra exercise could cut diabetes risk

A study has found that physical activity provides the greatest benefits to adolescent insulin resistance when the condition peaks at age 13, but provides no benefit to it at age 16.

Animal-eye view of the world revealed with new visual software

New camera technology that reveals the world through the eyes of animals has been developed by University of Exeter researchers. 

New partnership will help manage Cornwall’s environment

An exciting new partnership in Cornwall is hoping to use academic research to inform the management of the county’s world-class natural habitats.

Severe droughts could lead to widespread losses of butterflies by 2050

Widespread drought-sensitive butterfly population extinctions could occur in the UK as early as 2050 according to a new study.

Newly identified tadpole disease found across the globe

Scientists have found that a newly identified and highly infectious tadpole disease is found in a diverse range of frog populations across the world.

Colour changing sand fleas flummox predatory birds

Sand fleas have a remarkable ability to change colour in order to match dramatically different backgrounds.

Sediment dwelling creatures at risk from nanoparticles in common household products

Researchers from the University of Exeter highlight the risk that engineered nanoparticles released from masonry paint on exterior facades, and consumer products such as zinc oxide cream, could have on aquatic creatures.

Here’s looking at you: research shows jackdaws can recognise individual human faces

Wild jackdaws recognise individual human faces and may be able to tell whether or not predators are looking directly at them.

Humans responsible for demise of gigantic ancient mammals

Early humans were the dominant cause of the extinction of a variety of species of giant beasts, new research has revealed.

Scary Science in the Square

Visitors to the University of Exeter’s annual Science in the Square event found out that while nature might sometimes seem scary, science can help make sense of terrifying phenomena as diverse as erupting volcanoes and intestinal parasites.

Life Through a Lens: Images of Research 2015

Post-doctoral researchers, Dr Andrew Watts and Dr Sulayman Mourabit, have been selected as category winners for their respective photographs “Plastic Waste” and “Fish Selfie” in the Image of Research 2015 competition, run by Researchers Development at University of Exeter.

Persist and shout: Male bluebirds alter their songs to be heard over increased acoustic noise levels

Birds ‘shout’ to be heard over the noise produced by man-made activity, new research has shown.

Female guppies become better swimmers to escape male sexual harassment

In the animal world, sexual reproduction can involve males attempting to entice or force females to mate with them, even if they are not initially interested.

Fishermen discards could increase prevalence of turtle disease in the Turks and Caicos Islands

Fishermen in the Turks and Caicos Islands could be increasing the local prevalence of a disease that is affecting turtle populations worldwide, by selectively harvesting healthy creatures and throwing back infected animals.

Sea temperature changes linked to mystery North Pacific ecosystem shifts

Longer, less frequent climate fluctuations may be contributing to abrupt and unexplained ecosystem shifts in the North Pacific, according to a study by the University of Exeter.

Large parks key to city success

Cities should feature compact development alongside large, contiguous green spaces to maximise benefits of urban ecosystems to humans, research led by the University of Exeter has concluded.

Historical data hold secrets of one of UK’s favourite fish

UK fisheries survey logbooks from the 1930s to 1950s have been digitised for the first time, revealing how cod responded to changing temperatures in the last century.

University hosts largest geography conference in Europe

Exeter researchers will join delegates from across Europe to present work at the Royal Geographical Society's Annual International Conference, which is taking place at the Streatham Campus. 

First glimpse of rare Peruvian animals revealed in extraordinary camera trap footage

A series of remarkable new camera trap videos has revealed some of the first ever footage of rare Peruvian animals.

Satellite technology puts ‘mussel’ into shellfish monitoring

University of Exeter researchers are working with a team of UK scientists to explore the use of satellites and meteorological data to monitor and forecast water quality 

Exeter UK’s top university for sport and best in the South West

The University of Exeter has retained its top ten place in the Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide, and has been named Sports University of the Year 2015-2016.

Beetroot juice improves sprinting and decision-making during exercise

Rugby players take note: drinking high nitrate beetroot juice improves both sprint performance and decision-making during prolonged intermittent exercise such as rugby and football, according to scientists from the University of Exeter.

University of Exeter contributes to new underwater noise monitoring network

Underwater noise in the marine environment is the focus of a new UK-wide research partnership.

Kenyan actors visit Cornwall to share extreme weather experiences

Researchers at the University of Exeter’s Penryn Campus will today welcome actors from Kenyan charity, S.A.F.E. Kenya.

Ocean circulation rethink solves climate conundrum

Researchers from the University of Exeter believe they have solved one of the biggest puzzles in climate science. 

Can food affect your mood? Researchers call for participants to take part in MoodFood trial

Researchers from the University of Exeter are seeking participants for a trial into whether certain types of food could prevent depression. 

Short, intense exercise bursts can reduce heart risk to teens

Adolescents who perform just eight to ten minutes of high-intensity interval exercise three times a week could be significantly reducing their risk of developing heart conditions, new research has concluded.

Cacti among world’s most threatened species

Thirty-one percent of cactus species are threatened with extinction.

Edible love gifts may influence female behaviour, suggests cricket study

Edible gifts given by male crickets to their female partners during mating contain unique proteins which could affect the females’ behaviour.

Rare bats win lottery boost

The Devon Greater Horseshoe Bat Project has received a grant via the Heritage Lottery Fund. 

Sea turtles face plastic pollution peril

All seven species of marine turtles can ingest or become entangled in the discarded debris that currently litters the oceans.

University of Exeter experts speak at UK’s first Global Wave Conference

Dr Ian Ashton will speak on measuring the impact of marine renewable energy at the Global Wave Conference this week.

Sitting for long periods not bad for health

There’s no harm in sitting down, say researchers

Greenland’s ice sheet plumbing system revealed

Pioneering new research sheds light on the impact of climate change on subglacial lakes found under the Greenland ice sheet.

Funds needed to save Orangutans in Borneo forest fire fight

A University of Exeter researcher is campaigning to raise funds to help put out thousands of forest fires in Borneo, which she warns are causing a global ecological and social disaster and putting the future of orangutans, gibbons and other wildlife at risk.

Prawns reveal the secrets of innovation

If necessity is the mother invention, who is the mother of necessity?

Flying ants mate close to home and produce inbred offspring

Ant queens stay close to home in their hunt for a mate and as a result produce thousands of inbred offspring, a study led by a University of Exeter biologist has found.

Females more promiscuous in colder climates, says insect study

Females have more sexual partners when they live in colder climates and are happier being monogamous when it is hotter, a study into the behaviour of insects has found.

Exeter scientists receive the latest NERC funding for strategic research

University of Exeter researchers are pleased to be among the recipients of the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) highlight topics grants – one of the new ways in which NERC is funding strategic research.

Exeter professor joins international experts on Global Council on Brain Health

Professor Linda Clare, Leader of the Centre for Research in Ageing and Cognitive Health (REACH) in Psychology at the University of Exeter, has been appointed to the Governance Committee of the Global Council on Brain Health (GCBH). 

Common lizards under threat from climate change

A new study has demonstrated that lizards do not cope well with the climate predicted for the year 2100.

Over 100 PhD studentships available for 2016 entry

The University of Exeter is looking to build on its success in the Times Higher Education world university rankings and Research Excellence Framework, by offering over 100 funded PhD studentships for 2016 entry.

Fellow appointments recognise Social Science excellence

Two leading academics from diverse fields at the University of Exeter have been appointed as Fellows of the Academy of Social Sciences.

Exeter climbs up global 100 for Life Sciences

The University of Exeter has cemented its position among the very best universities in the world for Life Sciences.

Moth and butterfly species respond differently to climate change

New research shows that certain species of moths and butterflies differ in how they respond to climate change.

Professor Charles Tyler wins prestigious SETAC Award

The Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry (SETAC) has awarded Professor Charles R. Tyler this year’s Founders Award.

High stress during pregnancy decreases offspring survival, according to mongoose study

Elevated stress hormones during the later stages of pregnancy can affect pup survival rate.

World-leading researcher appointed first Director of University of Exeter Living Systems Institute

One of the world’s most pioneering and influential developmental geneticists has been appointed as the inaugural Director of the University of Exeter’s Living Systems Institute.

Festival of Social Science: A fascinating insight into social science and its influence on our lives

Exeter academics will be demonstrating how our research is investigating the key issues in modern day life at a series of events.

Intensive farming link to bovine TB

Intensive farming practices have been linked to higher risk of bovine TB, new research has concluded.

How best to tackle dangerous climate change: Exeter’s ‘Global Conversation’ comes to New York

The pivotal issue of how best to address perilous global climate change will be discussed by world-leading experts, at a special event in New York.

Extinction can spread from predator to predator, researchers have found

The extinction of one carnivore species can trigger the demise of fellow predators, conservation biologists at the University of Exeter have confirmed.

Marine fungi reveal new branches on tree of life

Researchers from the University of Exeter have discovered several new species of marine fungi inhabiting previously undescribed branches of the tree of life.

Many hands make light work and improve health, researchers have found

Getting help with baby care could keep families healthier and extend their lives, according to a new study into bird behaviour.

Study to tackle transient loneliness

Exeter researchers hope a new study will raise awareness of ‘transient loneliness’.

Half of all Amazonian tree species may be globally threatened

More than half of all tree species in the world’s most diverse forest may be globally threatened, according to a new study.

Resilience: new book contributes to fast-changing debate

An ESI professor's new book adds to the debate around climate change, globalisation, rural and urban poverty and inequality.

Rice basket study rethinks roots of human culture

A new study from the University of Exeter has found that teaching is not essential for people to learn to make effective tools.

Don’t forget plankton in climate change models, says study

A new study found that phytoplankton - microscopic water-borne plants - can rapidly evolve tolerance to elevated water temperatures.

‘Fish fraud’ across Europe in decline, study shows

Tough new policies to combat fish fraud across Europe appear to be working, according to a new study.

Cultural heritage “crucial” to climate change debate

An exploration of the relationship between cultural heritage and climate change is being led by an expert from the University of Exeter at the world’s largest ever climate change talks.

Scientists and fiction writers unite for sleep anthology

Scientists from the University of Exeter have joined forces with storytellers to explore the link between sleep and fiction in a new book about the science of sleep.

Protected area design secrets revealed in new study

It is not only size that matters when planning a protected area, other spatial features such as shape are also critical to the number of animal species found there.

Science for managing climate change risks across Europe under the microscope

An exploration into how science can manage climate change risks across Europe will be presented by an expert from the University of Exeter at the world’s largest climate change talks.

New consortium drives forward congestion-busting project for Exeter

Experts from the University of Exeter are taking part in a new initiative that will put the city at the heart of intelligent use of data to cut traffic jams.

Climate change course run by the University of Exeter inspires new artworks

A free online course run by the University of Exeter which explains the science behind climate change has inspired an artist to produce paintings which depict the risks posed by the changing environment.

Growth potential remains at risk on even the most remote coral reefs

Coral reefs in the Indian Ocean that were severely damaged by a global warming event 17 years ago have bounced back to optimum health.

Baby fish will be lost at sea in acidified oceans

The ability of baby fish to find a home, or other safe haven, to grow into adulthood will be severely impacted under predicted ocean acidification, academics have found.

Phytoplankton like it hot: Warming boosts biodiversity and photosynthesis in phytoplankton

Warmer temperatures increase biodiversity and photosynthesis in phytoplankton, researchers at the University of Exeter and Queen Mary University of London (QMUL) have found.

New Exeter research boosts antibiotic hope

Research carried out at the University of Exeter has advanced understanding of how some damaging bacteria behave and may pave the way for new and more targeted antibiotics.

Depression therapy research makes waves in top 100

A University of Exeter- led study has been ranked as among the most shared and discussed academic research of 2015.

Clinical Psychology at University of Exeter celebrates 40th anniversary

Exeter’s internationally-renowned Clinical Psychology training programme celebrated its 40th anniversary, with a gathering of 100 leading psychologists, alumni and staff.

Exeter academics make world’s best list

Six University of Exeter academics appear on a list of the world’s most influential scientific minds that is published this week.

University of Exeter research explains the worldwide variation in plant life-histories

A “window on the tree of life” created by a team which includes a University of Exeter researcher is helping to explain the worldwide variation in plant life-histories.

Crows caught on camera fashioning special hook tools

Scientists have been given an extraordinary glimpse into how wild New Caledonian crows make and use ‘hooked stick tools’ to hunt for insect prey.

Exeter scientists call for reduction in plastic lab waste

Three researchers at the University of Exeter are calling for action to cut down on the five and a half million tonnes of plastic being generated globally in the course of scientific research.