C24: Anthropology and Development Studies

OU researchers work with stakeholders to build capacity and advance social justice as a collaboration between those in developed and developing countries.

Over the last decade OU researchers have successfully put innovation systems research on the development map.

Research specialisms

• Science, technology, innovation and development
• Asian drivers in African development
• Equity, health and human wellbeing

Headline results

• OU research in Development Studies is ranked 5^th in the UK overall for the quality and intensity of its research using the Times Higher Education Research Intensity Score
• 100% of OU research was assessed as 4* or 3* for impact
• 100% of the OU environment for research in Anthropology and Development Studies was assessed as 4* or 3*

Research highlights

OU researchers have led the discussion of the impact of the Rising Powers – and in particular China – on Africa. Interacting with a range of policy stakeholders and companies in Africa, they have had direct impact on African countries’ policies and companies’ practice, and helped strengthen African firms’ competitiveness.

OU researchers in the ESRC Innogen Centre have played a significant role in improving international regulation and governance in the life sciences, with major impacts in Europe, Africa and the Middle East. Their research has highlighted how inappropriate and overly complex regulation can prevent the development of innovative and potentially beneficial technologies in medicines and agricultural products, and shown that regulation strongly influences which products are developed, and which companies take the lead in their development.

Our research into private sector investment and innovation processes in Africa has had direct impact on the health and agriculture sectors and in innovation policy there. It has influenced policy processes to improve food security and has contributed to the local production of pharmaceuticals and access to medicines in Africa; fostered innovation in the research and development of the International Aids Vaccine Initiative (IAVI) and products targeting neglected diseases.