

Advancing Research through philanthropy
Research is driven by creative and innovative thinking.
It is the discovery and application of new knowledge and ideas. It is fundamental to improving society, enabling economic growth and changing people’s lives for the better. In a world facing a climate transition, a migration crisis, global political turmoil and rapidly increasing inequality, research, and the right kind of research, is needed now more than ever. The independence and quality of research at UK Universities is internationally recognised, and of increasing value in a shifting global political context.
Our research reflects our remarkable community. From a spark of curiosity and a desire to change things for the better, we explore the unknown and open up new ideas and opportunities for all.


York’s mission to be a University for Public Good drives our commitment to ask the tough and challenging questions and to acknowledge complexity. We have a responsibility to develop profound insights and to find solutions to wicked problems.
A key question we ask ourselves at York is not just what are we good at but what are we good for?

This is not easy and it takes a diverse community to make it happen.
Philanthropy and donors have been with us every step of the way and they remain crucial partners in optimistically pushing onwards in delivering research to make the world a better place. For over 60 years researchers at York have worked across disciplinary boundaries to answer complex questions - from founding the field of Health Economics and the establishment of our world class biomedical research facilities, through to today being at the forefront of safe use of AI in autonomous vehicles and leading the UK’s research to transform Adult Social Care.
Today the power of philanthropy continues today to fuel research groups across disciplines at York. Through four major research institutes we are advancing mental health research, championing breakthroughs in biomedicine, exploring sustainability and leading research into opportunities for safe autonomy and AI. Through four major research institutes we are exploring human rights, poverty and opportunities for digital heritage. We are supporting early career researchers, pushing boundaries of human knowledge and working to solve the world’s biggest challenges.

Macular Degeneration


