Research

AUT research is focused on real-world impact, and we're proud of our reputation as a leading research university and have been awarded five stars for research by QS. We have more than 60 research centres and institutes delivering innovative research – from artificial intelligence and robotics to ecology and public health. Our research addresses issues facing the environment, society and the world, and also feeds back into the classroom to benefit our students.

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Latest university research

Pregnant runner

Pregnant runners' pain varies

Sport and recreation
A new study has found key differences in the pain of pregnant runners, depending on whether they’ve previously had children.
Boy Swimming

NZ kids love arts, culture, recreation

A report by AUT’s Dr Rebecca Evans found 97% of 12-year-olds participate in some kind of extracurricular activity.
News Graphic Image

Trust in news declines rapidly in 2024

Communication studies
The latest Trust in News report shows a rapid decline in trust in 2024, despite high interest in news.
China EQ Researchers

Earthquake innovations tested in China

Engineering, computer and mathematical sciences
Earthquake innovations by AUT Associate Professor Shahab Ramhormozian and collaborators were tested on one of the world’s largest shake tables.

Our world-leading researchers

You can see some of our expert researchers below. Want to see more researchers? Refresh this page to see different academic staff or search for a researcher.

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Deborah Heke

Dr Deborah Heke is known for her expertise in Indigenous methodologies and practices, with a particular interest in prioritising the knowledge systems of Māori/Indigenous women.

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Gail Pacheco

Contributing to social good through better decision-making is what drives Professor Gail Pacheco.

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Xiaowen Yuan

Professor Xiaowen Yuan is exploring the potential of agricultural resources to create bio composite materials for energy storage, construction and medical applications.

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Sarat Singamneni

Known for his expertise in advanced materials and manufacturing science, Professor Sarat Singamneni has developed a world-class lab for additive manufacturing research.

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Andrea C. Alfaro

Professor Andrea C. Alfaro is an authority on aquaculture and marine ecology with strong links with all major aquaculture industries in New Zealand.

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Ineke Crezee

Professor Ineke Crezee is known for her expertise in health interpreter education and is the author of internationally recognised key textbooks on this subject.

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Scott Duncan

Professor Scott Duncan uses cutting-edge technology to extract and visualise complex time-use compositions related to physical activity, sleep, transport and multidimensional wellbeing.

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W. Lindsey White

Professor Lindsey White is an authority on seaweed utilisation, both by humans and by marine herbivores, including the use of Undaria pinnatifida and Durvillaea spp.

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Nicola Kayes

Professor Nicola Kayes is known for her expertise in mixed methods rehabilitation research, with enduring partnerships with a diversity of rehabilitation providers.

Research institutes and networks AUT is involved in

Postgraduate study and research

AUT is New Zealand’s fastest growing postgraduate study destination, offering a wide range of programmes.

Use AUT's research facilities

Many of our modern research facilities and equipment can be used by external researchers.

Explore facilities

Research commercialisation

AUT Ventures provides commercialisation advice, consultancy and investment opportunities.

AUT Ventures website

Contact us

Get in touch with us to find out more about research at AUT or to partner with us on a research project.

Zam Suan Mung
SangHoon (Andrew) Yoon
Keegan Chessum
Sophie Hayden
Jasper Wong