Law research and expertise

Research and expertise

— Inspired thinking. Global impact.

Academic staff in the School of Law boardroom

Our research

The School of Law fosters and promotes research in all major fields of legal study. Our research is organised into four leading research centres, whose staff deliver teaching and supervision to our students at all levels. Our research explores contemporary issues across the fields of law and criminal justice, informing policy and practice on a national and international level.

In addition to the School's research centres, the N8 Policing Research Partnership is led from the School. This cross-instituational hub for research and innovation is a dynamic Northern Powerhouse in policing research and knowledge exchange which facilitates collaborations between universities, PCCs, police forces and partners across the north of England. 

Our research centres

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Centre for Business Law and Practice

The Centre for Business Law and Practice is a leading research centre with expertise in corporate and financial law; contract, commercial and consumer law; competition law, regulation and tax; and international trade law.

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Centre for Criminal Justice Studies

The Centre for Criminal Justice Studies is an interdisciplinary research institute which conducts research into security governance and regulation, criminal behaviour and desistance, and criminal justice processes.

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Centre for Innovation and Research in Legal Education

The Centre for Innovation and Research in Legal Education addresses key questions within university education in Law and Criminal Justice.

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Centre for Law and Social Justice

The Centre for Law and Social Justice supports scholars, activists, organisations and practitioners who are interested in and engage with questions about the existence of inequalities in welfare and social justice.

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Impact and engagement

Our research tackles current, real-world issues. I'm passionate about corporate accountability. My students graduate with integrity to become ethical, responsible global citizens.

Professor Joan Loughrey

Our research has global impact, whether influencing policy, improving professional practice or shaping intellectual debates. Through our research we aim to have a significant impact on society and our team of academic experts frequently gain international recognition for their work.

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Research projects

Our research informs policy and practice in law, criminology and criminal justice. Find out about the current research projects taking place within the School.

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Our experts

Our academic team is formed by a diverse group of over 65 experts who are dedicated to having a positive impact on society through their research and teachings.

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Visiting scholars

The School of Law welcomes visiting scholars under two schemes. Joining us as either a liberty fellow or visiting scholar you will receive a warm welcome from our academic and research community.

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Research degrees

Join our postgraduate research community and pursue your passion with the support of our expert academics.

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4th

in the UK

for research power according to the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2014

98%

of our research

is of international quality according to the Research Excellence Framework 2014

88%

of our research

is either 'world-leading' or 'internationally excellent', REF 2014

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