Research

Our research covers a wide range of disciplines and subject areas. Research is carried out in the fields of Islamic studies: the languages, literatures and cultures of the Arab World and other cultures of the Middle East, including Arabic, Persian and Kurdish languages; and the history, politics, economies, societies, and anthropology of the region.

Research Assessment Exercise

In 2008, the latest Research Assessment Exercise, the UK government’s main measure of quality of universities’ research rated the Institute of Arab and Islamic Studies’ research activity as 80 per cent internationally recognised and 15 per cent as world leading. 91 per cent of staff were assessed for this RAE, representing a very high percentage for the UK university sector. Institute staff continue to obtain new research grants and staff numbers have expanded by 50 per cent since 2007.

Research clusters

Research in the Institute is carried out on three main themes, these are listed below. Some of our research overlaps within themes, and also collaborates with other departments within the College of Social Sciences and International Studies and the College of Humanities. More detailed information can be found under research clusters.

• Islamic studies
• History and social sciences
• Language, literature and material culture

Research centres

The Institute has several research centres focusing on various geographical and subject areas. Centres organise regular workshops and conferences. More information can be found about individual research centres.