Research overview
UCT’s Vision 2030 commits us to ‘unleashing knowledge in and from Africa to redefine and co-create a sustainable global future’. We strive to address global challenges and realise new opportunities in the social and natural worlds.
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We're ranked 7th in the world for Partnerships for the Goals in the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings 2024
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We're ranked 15th in the world for Development Studies by QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024
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We're ranked 24th in the world for infectious diseases by US News Best Global Universities rankings 2024–2025
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We're ranked 50th in the world by Quacquarelli Symonds World University Rankings: Sustainability 2024
Leading researchers
UCT’s cutting-edge research is led by world-renowned academics whose work is focused on building new fundamental knowledge for the future while responding to the world’s most pressing challenges in the present.
Global research partnerships
UCT is affiliated with local and international strategic research networks and partnerships that have, and continue to, position us as a premier academic meeting point between South Africa, the rest of Africa and the world.
Strategic research strengths
UCT is committed to advancing Africa's developmental agenda and contributing to global science. Our research focuses on our unique areas of expertise and strengths selected to deliver transformative impact.
Rankings
UCT’s position as the highest-ranked university in Africa in five major world university rankings has contributed to its strong global reputation.
UCT and the UN Sustainable Development Goals
UCT is leading transdisciplinary research and multilateral collaboration to create sustainable and equitable development in Africa.
Publications
UCT’s publications showcase our strategic focus and the impact of our latest breakthrough research that is advancing local and global science.