Research
We conduct internationally significant, rigorous and high quality research. Find out more about our research clusters, themes, projects, quality and publications.
The CCRI undertakes much of its work in the form of grant and contract funded research projects. This work is organised into four subject-orientated research clusters, and four cross-cutting themes.
Research clusters
The CCRI’s research is organised around four main research clusters. View more information about our research clusters and projects below.
Culture, Nature and Heritage
Land, Water and Ocean Environments
Sustainable Farming and Food
Rural-Urban Economies and Societies
Research themes
Across these clusters are four cross-cutting themes. View more information about our research themes and projects below.
Research quality
The CCRI has entered the UK Government’s assessments of research, the Research Excellence Framework and its predecessor, the Research Assessment Exercise, under the Architecture, Built Environment and Planning Unit of Assessment.
In the most recent exercise, REF 2021, over 85% of the CCRI’s research was judged as internationally significant, rigorous, and high quality.
Impact case studies are a part of the REF submission and demonstrate the value to society of the research being carried out.
Research projects
The CCRI is currently working on the following projects funded by the EU research programmes, UK Government and others:
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Monitoring & Evaluation for Culture Nature England Project
This work will engage with project leaders and partners, library staff, and audiences to ensure a comprehensive evaluation of the Culture Nature England project, rich in insights and inclusive of diverse perspectives.
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Evidence Enquiry for Wellbeing and Heritage
This review will cover a five-year span, capturing completed and ongoing projects from universities, research institutions, heritage associations, government bodies, and charities. By focusing on both published research and emerging initiatives, the project aims to provide a forward-looking picture that reflects the latest trends in the field.
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Evaluating the effectiveness of AB9 Winter Bird Food in Countryside Stewardship
This project focuses on improving our understanding of the effectiveness of the winter bird food option (AB9) under the Countryside Stewardship scheme.
Publications
Publications such as briefings, annual reviews and research can be found on the University of Gloucestershire’s research repository.
Books
CCRI members have had their work published in a range of books. You can view, download and purchase these publications via the University of Gloucestershire’s online shop platform.
Countryside and Community Press
The Countryside and Community Press is the publishing imprint of the Countryside and Community Research Institute (formerly known as the Countryside and Community Research Unit) at the University of Gloucestershire.
The Countryside and Community Press publish works prepared by the CCRI, or on behalf of colleagues and collaborative partners where synergies occur.