Research and Innovation
Queen Mary’s research drives innovation in health and wellbeing — from pioneering clinical discoveries to community-based studies that improve access to care and reduce health inequalities globally.
The 100,000 Genomes Project
Queen Mary researchers played a leading role in the national 100,000 Genomes Project, which sequenced the genomes of NHS patients with rare diseases and cancers. By linking genetic data with clinical information, the initiative transformed how conditions are diagnosed and treated, paving the way for personalised medicine within the UK’s public health system. The project has already improved diagnosis rates for rare disorders and provided actionable insights for thousands of families. Its success is helping to embed genomics into everyday healthcare, making precision medicine more equitable and effective.
Helping London’s children breathe more easily: how Queen Mary research influenced the introduction of the Ultra Low Emission Zone
Research, ‘Helping London’s Children Breathe More Easily’, led by Queen Mary scientists demonstrated how traffic-related air pollution was damaging children’s lung growth and overall health in London. The evidence directly influenced the creation of the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ), one of the city’s most significant public-health interventions. The work connected air-quality data with clinical outcomes to show tangible health improvements when emissions are reduced. This research has shaped policy, reduced exposure to harmful pollutants, and improved respiratory health for thousands of children
Floodwaters, landfills and toxic contaminants
Research at Queen Mary University of London, by Professor Kate Spencer, has shown how rising floodwaters increase the risk of toxic contaminants being released from historic coastal landfills (CHLs). The research highlights the vulnerability of aquatic ecosystems and communities to hazardous pollutants being released from CHLs into marine environments. It was revealed that 30% of England's protected coastlines and bathing water catchments are at risk from CHL pollution, posing both environmental and public health risks. More than 1,200 sites face potential tidal flooding, with 10% at risk of erosion by 2050.
A £2.9 million UKRI/DEFRA grant has been awarded to enhance resilience in coastal communities facing landfill pollution through the ResAnth project. These outcomes ensure that communities will be better prepared for the environmental and public health risks posed by CHLs.
Ethnic differences in breast cancer development and outcomes
New research by Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, found that women of African or South Asian genetic ancestry tend to develop breast cancer and die at a younger age than women of European ancestry. The study, which looked at clinical and genetic data from over 7,000 women with breast cancer, also found important genetic differences in these women’s cancers that
Barts Cancer Institute
The Barts Cancer Institute is part of the Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry at Queen Mary University of London, and has one overriding objective: to conduct pioneering research that drives meaningful progress for people with cancer.
The BCI is split into six Research Centres, and our more than 350 research staff and 100 graduate students focus their efforts on two objectives: increasing the chances of cancer survival through early detection and diagnosis and improving patient survival through the discovery and development of more effective and innovative therapies.
These objectives are underpinned by research into improving our understanding of the basic cell and molecular biology of cancer and the body's natural immune response to it.
The Wolfson Institute of Population Health
The Wolfson Institute of Population Health brings together more than 500 interdisciplinary staff across public health, primary care, mental health, and data science to tackle major population health challenges. Based in East London—an area with one of the UK’s most diverse and deprived communities—the Institute emphasises reducing health inequalities through applied research, policy translation and community-engaged work. Its partnerships include national bodies (e.g., NIHR Policy Research Units), international collaborations (including a WHO Collaborating Centre), and cutting-edge programmes that translate health data into action for prevention, early diagnosis and equitable care.
COMBI trial hopes to reverse the cycle of low birth weight in Zimbabwe
This Queen Mary study found that cotrimoxazole reduced preterm births by 40% for pregnant mothers in Zimbabwe, contributing to healthier pregnancies and reduced infant mortality. This low-cost intervention has the potential to improve maternal and child health in low-income countries, offering scalable solutions for global health challenges.
New tests for early detection of pancreatic cancer offer significant hope
Researchers at Queen Mary developed a breakthrough diagnostic test capable of detecting pancreatic cancer earlier than current methods. Using innovative biomarkers, the test allows clinicians to identify cancer before symptoms appear, improving survival prospects for one of the most challenging cancers to treat. This advancement supports precision medicine and reduces the burden on patients and healthcare systems. By improving early diagnosis, it represents a major step forward in life-saving cancer research and equitable access to healthcare innovation.
Action leading the law – medication abortion pills changing access around the world
Queen Mary researchers in Geography and Global Health explored how medical abortion pills are reshaping reproductive rights and access globally. Their work documents how women and health networks navigate restrictive legal systems to secure safe and affordable care. The findings inform international policy debates and healthcare guidelines, highlighting the intersection of law, health, and gender equity. This research empowers evidence-based policy reform and protects women’s health through improved access to essential medication.
Research offers better health outcomes for British Bangladeshi and Pakistani people
Scientists at Queen Mary’s Blizard Institute uncovered genetic and environmental factors influencing the higher rates of certain diseases in British Bangladeshi and Pakistani communities. Their work integrates genomics with social research to tailor prevention and treatment strategies to specific populations. By identifying how genetic variation affects disease risk and medication response, this research promotes more equitable, effective healthcare. It also informs national health policy, ensuring underrepresented groups are included in medical innovation and public health planning.
A smart toothpaste that “knows” what you need
Researchers at Queen Mary’s Institute of Dentistry and the School of Engineering & Materials Science developed BioMinF®, a “smart” toothpaste using patented bioactive glass technology that releases fluoride, calcium and phosphate ions over 10–12 hours to protect teeth from decay and reduce sensitivity. Clinical trials show the product is twice as effective at reducing pain compared with other leading sensitivity toothpastes, and it is now used globally in over 20 countries, with >100,000 tubes produced per month.
The spin-out company BioMin Technologies Ltd (founded in 2014) today generates over £500,000 annual revenue through commercial licence agreements across multiple international markets. This research helps reduce preventable dental disease, improves oral health outcomes, and embeds innovative materials science into global healthcare markets—demonstrating how Queen Mary’s translational research advances wellbeing at scale.
Improving the oral health of vulnerable children
Queen Mary’s Institute of Dentistry is tackling childhood tooth decay—one of the UK’s most common preventable diseases—through community research and school-based interventions. The programme supports children in deprived areas with preventive care, education, and dental access, working alongside local authorities and NHS partners. By focusing on early prevention and community engagement, the project strengthens lifelong oral health and reduces health inequalities. It exemplifies how targeted, collaborative research can improve wellbeing in vulnerable populations.
Study uncovers the true burden of asthma in African pupils
A Queen Mary-led study revealed that asthma is a far greater health burden in African schools than previously recognised, affecting up to one in ten pupils in some regions. The research highlighted links between urbanisation, environmental exposure, and respiratory disease, identifying major gaps in diagnosis and care. By providing robust, continent-wide data, it supports better resource allocation and awareness among educators and healthcare providers. This study strengthens international understanding of respiratory health and promotes action to improve children’s quality of life globally.