The University’s first list of star achievers has just been announced - and there are even more than predicted.

A key element of the University strategy is the celebration and promotion of our research peaks - areas with a critical mass of world-leading research in which we excel and are internationally renowned. This list of gold, silver and future peaks is a demonstration of the University’s commitment to advancing knowledge, developing outstanding students and scholars and making a major impact on global society.

But what makes a peak? Characteristics include a wealth of expertise, external recognition and a reputation for international excellence and world-leading research. Identifying the peaks was a huge job, and an extensive amount of communication and consultation was undertaken – suggestions were made by deans after discussions with their faculty colleagues, which were then reviewed by the strategy group.

“This list is a real demonstration of our success – and how much we have already achieved – not just by those working in the peaks but the entire University community,” said Pro-Vice-Chancellor for research Professor John Fisher. The commitment to research excellence across the University means a continuous supply of developing peaks are envisaged. The next step is supporting our academics through investment, planning and processes wherever needed, and ensuring all areas across the University are encouraged to develop.

“The journey will depend on where you are,” said University Vice-Chancellor Professor Michael Arthur. “It could be about developing a major theme, asking interesting and important questions and building teamwork around that focus, or recruiting people to contribute new angles. Our strategic investments will occur both across our broad base of international excellence in schools, institutes and faculties as well as our emerging and established peaks.

“One of the great strengths of our University is its breadth. I would like to retain that breadth, and see everyone be successful.”

Peaks of excellence

• English
• Centre for international business at the University of Leeds
• Cancer: oncology, haematology, pathology and tumour biology
• Astbury centre
• Institute for transport studies
• Earth and environment systems science
• Leeds algebra and logic group
• Astrophysical and geophysical fluid dynamics
• Polymer and complex fluids
• Energy
• Institute of medical and biological engineering
• Institute of particle science and engineering
• Institute of colonial and postcolonial studies
• Centre for cultural studies
• Centre for criminal justice studies in law
• Centre for advanced studies in finance
• Musculoskeletal disease, rheumatology, rehabilitation, psychometrics
• Plant sciences
• Membrane biology
• Colour science
• Physical science of food
• High frequency and nano-electronics
• Institute for medieval studies
• ICS, centre for European political communication
• Interdisciplinary centre for scientific research in music
• Disability studies
• Leeds social science institute
• Cardiovascular research institute at Leeds
• Cell biology
• Nanoscale science and quantum information
• Structural and functional materials research
• Computational fluid dynamics