Our research takes place in many forms – from the PhDs we support and practical testing of new conservation techniques to the hundreds of projects we collaborate in or host yearly. Our interests are diverse, and our research spans collection conservation, curatorial and environmental areas. How to become involved in research in the National Trust will depend on research objectives and experience, from volunteer level to academic expertise.
The Trust is keen to collaborate in or host research which benefits the heritage and natural environment sectors. Our Strategic Framework for Research strongly emphasises knowledge exchange and working in partnership with others for mutual benefit.
We're an Independent Research Organisation recognised by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI); a status is only awarded to organisations with a strong ability to deliver research for the UK.
With more than five million members and millions of visitors each year, we also have the potential to generate significant research impact.
Our academic and conservation research includes applied testing conservation methodologies, challenge-led research and ‘fundamental’ research to uncover new historical knowledge.
Our ways of working with research partners generally fall into one of five categories: joint research projects; collaborative interpretation projects; critical friends; collaborative PhDs; and research placements.
Read more about our ways of working with research partners.
The Trust relies on hundreds of volunteers, from beginner level to highly experienced researchers, who actively support in a variety of areas including bio-surveying, oral history research, genealogical research and research into gardens and collections.
Download the guidance on researching with volunteers.
The National Trust is a big place and there are many different roles and members of staff who work within the organisation’s structure. How academic researchers might work with the team will depend on the collaborative projects.
Download the Who to contact document to find out who will be the best person to offer guidance and information specific to your needs.
We're an Independent Research Organisation recognised by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI). Our research takes place in many forms – from the PhDs we sponsor and practical testing of new conservation techniques to the hundreds of research projects we collaborate in or host at places in our care each year.
The University of Manchester is a public research university located in Manchester, England.
Arts & Humanities Research Council funds outstanding original research across the whole range of the arts and humanities.
Learn how research helps us understand changes in the world around us, discover more about the places the Trust cares for and find practical solutions to conservation problems.
From discovering how to protect historic houses to following the lives of 1,000 northern hairy wood ants with tiny radio receivers, learn more about recent collaborations, including our collaboration with the University of Leicester to support our Everyone Welcome commitment.