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Radboud University Nijmegen


Climate impact research needs more real-world data

A new study published in Environmental Research Letters found that climate mitigation and adaptation strategies often lack real-world data, hindering effective climate policy. Researchers identified the need for systematic collection of observational data across cities to determine what truly works, under which conditions, and for whom.

SourceRadboud University Nijmegen·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateJul 15, 2026

Whose turn is it? Toddlers know the answer!

Two-year-olds exhibit surprisingly good understanding of turn-taking in conversations, predicting when someone else will speak. Children with Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) also understand when it's their turn, but may be slower to respond.

SourceRadboud University Nijmegen·JournalJournal of Speech Language and Hearing Research·TypeObservational study·DateMar 17, 2026

Everyone unconsciously adapts their communication for children – including autistic adults

A new study published in Autism found that autistic adults initially adjust their communication style for children, but then stick to their initial assessment. Autistic participants were more likely to rely on subtle cues and take the interaction seriously, whereas non-autistic participants gradually adjusted their behavior as they rea...

SourceRadboud University Nijmegen·JournalAutism·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 12, 2026

Pay gap among academics does not stop at university

A new study by Radboud University and the University of Groningen found that PhD graduates, particularly women, experience a persistent pay gap outside academia. Women earn an average of 171 euros less per month immediately after obtaining their doctorate, with this disparity increasing over time.

SourceRadboud University Nijmegen·JournalResearch in Social Stratification and Mobility·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 12, 2026

Surviving slavery: family ties were vital

A historical analysis of Surinamese slave registers found that young children who grew up without a mother were more likely to die, while the presence of grandmothers significantly increased their chances of survival. Family members played a crucial role in protecting children from harsh conditions.

SourceRadboud University Nijmegen·JournalDemography·DateFeb 12, 2026

Young people sport less when they get their first job, but social support helps

Research by sociologist Sara Wiertsema found that young adults tend to exercise less after starting their first job. However, an activating social and work environment can help them maintain physical activity levels. Young people are more likely to continue exercising if they receive social support from colleagues or friends.

SourceRadboud University Nijmegen·JournalInternational Review for the Sociology of Sport·DateMay 26, 2025

Universe decays faster than thought, but still takes a long time

The researchers calculated that the universe will decay via Hawking-like radiation in approximately 10^78 years. This time frame applies to white dwarf stars and neutron stellar black holes, both of which take the same amount of time to evaporate. The findings contradict previous estimates and shed new light on the theory of relativity.

SourceRadboud University Nijmegen·JournalJournal of Cosmology and Astroparticle Physics·DateMay 12, 2025

The refrigerator as a harbinger of a better life

Researchers from Radboud University mapped household material wealth growth in low- and middle-income countries, revealing that emerging nations are following a similar pattern to Western countries. The domestic transition starts earlier and progresses faster in cities, regions with higher economic development, and areas with a favorab...

SourceRadboud University Nijmegen·JournalJournal of International Development·DateNov 9, 2024

Thinking hard ‘hurts’

A recent study by Radboud University researchers found that thinking hard causes unpleasant feelings, affecting people from various professional groups. Despite the rewards associated with mental effort, such as higher grades, the burden remains a source of irritation and frustration.

SourceRadboud University Nijmegen·JournalPsychological Bulletin·DateAug 6, 2024

Social media data provides first glimpse at increased popularity of air conditioning worldwide

New research using social media advertising data provides insights into the adoption of air conditioning units worldwide, particularly in heat-vulnerable regions. The study found that middle-aged, highly educated, married males, and parents with small children are more likely to express online interest in AC units.

SourceRadboud University Nijmegen·JournalOne Earth·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 21, 2023

Do fish suffer from oxygen starvation?

Researchers at Radboud University found that larger fish and those with large cells are more sensitive to oxygen stress in warm water. Freshwater fish appear to be more tolerant of oxygen-depleted water than marine fish, likely due to different selection pressures during their evolutionary history.

SourceRadboud University Nijmegen·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateJul 25, 2022