Research and Innovation from Coventry University – July 2025
Coventry University Research and Innovation
Ground-breaking research and innovation from Coventry University
From exploring the unexpected effects of ice baths and championing our women in engineering, to rethinking the future of transport through autonomous vehicles, we’re proud to share another month of impactful research from our community.
We are pushing boundaries, improving lives and shaping a fairer, healthier, more sustainable world.
Celebrating women in engineering
Top tips for women in STEM
On International Women in Engineering Day, we celebrated the power of inclusive innovation and spotlighted inspiring women from our research community — including Professor Elena Gaura , Adeen Qazi and Dr Egle Latvyte — who offered top tips for our women engineers of the future.
Empowering future leaders
Our British Council Women in STEM scholars proudly shared what drives them to make a difference through their work and why diverse voices matter.
Whether harnessing AI to tackle healthcare costs or developing non-invasive tools for brain health, their work is shaping a brighter future.
Health research
Ice baths could boost your appetite
With UK temperatures soaring this week, a cold plunge might sound tempting - but research suggests there’s more going on beneath the surface. Professor David Broom and PhD student Marie Grigg found that while ice baths can help burn calories, they may also increase appetite by around 240 calories.
Natural antioxidant may protect muscles from obesity effects
Associate Professor Jason Tallis and his colleagues have revealed how resveratrol, a natural antioxidant, could reduce muscle decline linked to high-fat diets.
Improving rehabilitation after intensive care
Professor David Mcwilliams led the UK’s largest evaluation of rehabilitation for critical illness, highlighting gaps in care post-ICU. The report was compiled alongside Dr Alexander Goodwin from Royal United Hospitals Bath NHS Foundation Trust .
Grassroots footballers become sports scientists
Young players aged 11–15 joined Professor Michael Duncan and his team to explore movement, skills and injury prevention through hands-on research.
The future of transport
Affordable and accessible transport in Coventry
In collaboration with Coventry City Council , transport design expert Professor Paul Herriotts and his team are supporting Coventry’s Very Light Rail project, an environmentally friendly tram system set to transform how people move around the city.
Autonomous shuttles
At the NEC, Professors Stewart Birrell and Kevin Vincent joined partners including Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council , Ohmio , IPG Automotive , dRISK, Transport for the West Midlands, the The NEC, Birmingham , WMG, University of Warwick and Coventry City Council to test autonomous vehicles and discuss legislation and public trust.
Why dance research matters
Professor Sarah Whatley explores how dance shapes AI, mental health, copyright law and our understanding of climate.
Transformative global and local research recognised by the University Alliance (UK) organisation
Solar cookers transforming lives in Rwanda
Dr Jonathan Nixon and Dr Alison Halford led a project that reduced daily firewood use by 75%, improving health outcomes and saving time.
Shortlisted in the Alliance Awards 'Global Impact' category. Find out more >
Hope 4 The Community CIC
Founded in 2015 by Professor Andy Turner and volunteers, Hope 4 The Community CIC has helped over 30,000 people manage long-term health conditions.
Shortlisted in the Alliance Awards 'Local Impact' category. Find out more >
Educational Specialist, Mediator
1moWell done Prof Whatley