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We are a vibrant department with a culture of public engagement. Our research addresses issues of public concern and asks questions about key dilemmas facing policymakers today.

Our mission is to disseminate our work as widely as possible as our research shapes policy, raises public awareness, and informs political debate.

97% of our research outputs are rated ‘world leading’ or ‘internationally excellent’, meaning that the University of Reading is 6th highest in the UK for research outputs (Times Higher Education analysis of the latest Research Excellence Framework 2021 – Politics and International Studies, when scoring by GPA Output).

Our commitment to the practical applications of research is illustrated by our strategic partnerships, policy and practitioner exchanges, and media engagement.

Strategic partnerships

We develop strategic partnerships with international institutions. For example, Dr Sarah von Billenbeck works closely with the UN, and Professor Dominik Zaum has worked with the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

Policy and practitioner exchanges

We have informal collaborations with relevant stakeholders that enable us to organise joint workshops, produce policy papers and provide consultation.

Media engagement

We share our research widely through media engagement. It is covered in major media outlets and social media platforms on a global scale.

Our academics are experts in their field and are regularly featured in the media, sharing their work, offering their expertise and giving opinions on current issues and affairs.

Recent media coverage

Examples of media exposure include:

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Research centres

We work within a number of research centres. We collaborate on projects with academics from a range of disciplines across the University, as well as international organisations such as the UN.

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Meet our experts

Our staff have exceptional knowledge in an impressive range of political topics and issues. Many of our academics are directly involved in international politics, sharing their expertise with governments and policymakers.

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News and events

Our academics make headlines with their research and their input on current affairs. Keep up with the latest news from our Department.