Research and innovation
Rail Centre
Our multidisciplinary centre for collaborative research into rail transport systems aims to improve social welfare
Find out moreResearch and innovation
We are a leading transport research centre worldwide. We deliver internationally excellent research outputs, which impact upon transport policy and practice, and contribute to the wider economy and society. Our research mission is to support the development of intelligent mobility systems that are connected, inclusive, productive and resilient. To find out more, browse a selection of our current and past research projects.
Research themes and centres
Virtuocity
Virtuocity is a unique programme for city simulation and co-design which provides a world-leading technical platform and leverages research and innovation expertise from across the University.
More on VirtuocityRail Centre
Our aim is to enhance understanding of the economics of rail transport demand and supply, rail operation and control, and the economic value of rail technical innovation and investment.
More on Rail CentreChoice Modelling Centre
We bring together expertise from a range of disciplines to work both in modelling choices and the development of surveys and techniques for capturing data on choices.
More on Choice Modelling CentreConnected and Shared Mobility
Our research aims to shape future sustainable transport systems by addressing the dynamic interaction between emerging technologies and the evolving mobility of people and goods.
More on Connected and Shared MobilityEnergy
Our research looks at the provision of sustainable, low carbon and secure sources of energy to fuel transport systems of the future.
More on EnergyGlobal South
We are finding ways to transform transport environments in the Global South to address mobility and access challenges faced by low income populations in developing cities.
More on Global SouthAutomation
Research conducted under this theme is focussed on understanding the human factors implications and challenges of connected and automated vehicles.
More on AutomationDigital Futures
Research under the Digital Futures theme, a part of the ‘Big Data’ genre, aims to harness the potential of new forms of digital data to generate policy relevant insights for the transport sector.
More on Digital FuturesOur research groups
Choice Modelling
Our research covers new methodological developments, theoretical insights and practical solutions to real world problems.
More on Choice ModellingEconomics and Appraisal
We look at the economics of transport from a demand and supply side perspective to assess the overall business case for transport investment.
More on Economics and AppraisalHuman Factors and Safety
We investigate road users’ interactions with new and current transport systems and technologies to advance transport safety.
More on Human Factors and SafetySpatial Modelling and Dynamics
We develop mathematical and statistical models and simulation tools for the representation, analysis and optimisation of traffic and transportation systems.
More on Spatial Modelling and DynamicsSocial and Political Sciences
We investigate transport and mobility from perspectives of the social and political sciences studies with the aim of delivering effective and sustainable mobility systems.
More on Social and Political SciencesResearch projects
Our research expertise is driving solutions to global issues, shaping environmental planning, protection and influencing our transport future. You can search and read our impactful, innovative and highly diverse projects in our Research directory.
Driving simulator
The University of Leeds driving simulator is one of the most advanced driving research environments in the world; and allows research into driver behaviour to be performed in accurately controlled and repeatable laboratory conditions. The facility consists of a large motion-based driving simulator, an advanced commercial truck simulator, and an immersive pedestrian laboratory.
Research degrees
Studying for a PhD will be a journey that will stimulate your passion for your subject and push you to reach your potential.
Search our PhD projects, ideas, funding opportunities, research areas and PhD supervisors.