Our research
IOE’s research is world-leading in education and social sciences - ranked #1 in the world for Education (QS World University Rankings) since 2014.
Our diverse research community are dedicated to improving lives and addressing complex, real-world challenges.
Through our national and international partnerships, we deliver innovative and interdisciplinary research that impacts policy, practice and debate locally and globally.
#1 in the UK for 'Research power in Education' and for 'Research strength in Education'
Research Excellence Framework (REF) 20216 major longitudinal national cohort studies in the UK
Centre for Longitudinal Studies250+
active externally funded research projects at any point in time
£25 million+
annual research income
Engagement and impact
Insights from IOE research projects and their impact in policy and practice nationally and internationally.
IOE research culture and environment
We support research staff and students and nurture research excellence and innovation.
Find a researcher
With over 700 staff engaged in research at any one time, IOE's expertise is unparalleled in depth and breadth.
Research partnerships and opportunities
Work with us to expand research, share insights and engage in impactful projects. We welcome collaboration with institutions, researchers and students worldwide.
IOE Research Strategic Plan
Our vision for IOE’s research from 2022 to 2027 to inspire and sustain the aspirations of our researchers, collaborate with our partners, and fulfil our responsibilities to the wider community.
What Matters in Education
From the IOE Pro Director and ESRC Education Research Programme, this series aims to spark new thinking on how research, policy and practice can most productively interact.
For over a century, IOE has contributed cutting edge research in education and society. Our work is rooted in a mission to further the development and wellbeing of children and young people, families and wider communities. We remain steadfast in this endeavour, leveraging our significant disciplinary expertise while innovating and setting new and socially empowering research agendas.
Our podcast
Research for the Real World
This IOE Podcast series focuses on conversations about education and social science research and its impact on policy, practice and our everyday lives.
Research news
Did TikTok just divide and conquer feminism?
TikTok’s promotion of commodified femininity erodes feminism’s potential for social justice, finds research from IOE academics exploring young women’s process of identity-formation online.
07 May 2026
What does “family” mean, and whose family experiences get recognised?
A new UCL study is inviting non-binary adults in the UK to share their experiences of family life, in research that aims to address a significant gap in evidence.
30 Apr 2026
New book argues care leave should be treated as a universal social right
Care leave needs a radical rethink – not as a workplace benefit for some, but as a universal social entitlement across the life course, argues the new book co-authored by UCL Professor Peter Moss.
23 Apr 2026
What's on
All events at UCL06 May to 03 Jun
online
Secondary data analysis with longitudinal population studies (SDA with LPS)06 May 2026 - 03 Jun 2026
11 May to 15 May
online
Mental health and wellbeing across contexts: Research, practice and lived experience11 May 2026 - 15 May 2026
11 May
online
Building enriched learning environments for bilingual language and literacy development18:00 - 19:30
Got questions? Get in touch
Contact us if you have any questions about research at the UCL Institute of Education.
