Research stories

A breakthrough in world science

Sheffield scientists are part of the international team behind what may be the most significant breakthrough in particle physics of the last 30 years. The team, working on the Large Hadron Collider at CERN in Switzerland, have discovered a particle thought to be the elusive Higgs boson.

Their results provide the most stringent test so far of the Standard Model of particle physics, which represents in a single equation our understanding of how the universe works, at the smallest distance scales.

The Sheffield group, led by Professor Dan Tovey of the Department of Physics and Astronomy, have been closely involved in all aspects of the experiment, from its design and construction through to analysis of the final data.

Revolutionary design

Professors Nigel Dunnett and James Hitchmough of the Department of Landscape were appointed principal horticultural and planting design consultants for the Olympic Park in 2008.

Working with landscape design architecture practice LDA Design, Nigel and James developed a planting strategy for the whole site, producing concepts and detailed proposals for herbaceous vegetation in the park. Their objectives were sustainability and increased biodiversity. Their highly ambitious approach was revolutionary for a major UK urban park.

Closer to a cure for deafness

Researchers from our Department of Biomedical Sciences, led by Dr Marcelo Rivolta, have developed a method to turn human embryonic stem cells into ear sensory cells.

They transplanted these into a model of neuropathic deafness showing, for the first time, evidence of functional restoration. Their breakthrough could lead to a treatment for this form of hearing loss.

Philosophy in the city

Philosophy in the City is just one of the ways we put our knowledge to good use in the community.

The programme helps Sheffield school children develop stronger thinking, writing and speaking skills. Student volunteers provide flexible, interactive sessions and mentoring for pupils, using philosophical arguments, ideas and debate.