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University of Exeter


Historic discovery finds 19th-century estate agent used peepshow technology to create proto version of Rightmove

Researchers at the University of Exeter discovered that a 19th-century estate agent, Brooks & Green, created an early version of Rightmove using cosmorama technology. The discovery reveals how this innovative approach to property marketing paved the way for modern virtual tours and online property previews.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalEarly Popular Visual Culture·TypeLiterature review·DateAug 5, 2026

Family ties shape social lives of bull sharks

A study of bull shark behavior found that individuals are slightly more likely to associate and socialise with relatives than unrelated sharks. This 'kinfluence' effect may contribute to both proximity-based associations and directed social interactions, particularly among male sharks.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalEcology and Evolution·DateAug 4, 2026

British Risso’s dolphins belong to single population

Research on British Risso's dolphins reveals they form a single genetic entity, separate from those in the Azores and Mediterranean. The study suggests these dolphins have been isolated for some time, but further research is needed to determine their boundaries.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalJournal of the Marine Biological Association of the United Kingdom·DateAug 2, 2026

New antibiotic mechanism triggers hope for new treatments in fight against resistance

Scientists at the University of Exeter have discovered two new mechanisms for how a well-established antibiotic works, which could lead to potential development of new antibiotic treatment. The study found that doxycycline targets the bacterial ribosome by blocking protein exit channels or reconfiguring it into an inactive state.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 28, 2026

Food labelling combined with higher prices for carbon-intensive foods could help reduce UK greenhouse gases by 5%, while generating social welfare gains

Economists suggest that combining food labelling with higher prices for carbon-intensive items can reduce UK greenhouse gases by 5%, while generating net social benefits. The study found that labelling led to a 5.6% decrease in the carbon content of the average food basket, while a tax on the most carbon-intensive products yielded a 10...

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalJournal of Environmental Economics and Management·DateJul 20, 2026

Habits help animals survive

Forming habits can make complex tasks automatic, reducing mental effort required for animals to find food efficiently. Breaking habits may also be essential if a habit is no longer beneficial, suggesting evolutionary benefits for creatures of habit.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalEvolution Letters·TypeObservational study·DateJun 22, 2026

Orangutans seek out medicinal plants

New research reveals orangutans selectively consume certain medicinal plants in specific sequences, suggesting 'self-medication' behaviors. The study, based on 20 years of observations, found plant combinations with known medicinal benefits are eaten consistently beyond simple nutrition needs.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 18, 2026

Large-scale population studies needed to reduce risks from newborn genome screening

Researchers emphasize the need for large-scale population studies to assess the risks of newborn genome screening and minimize overdiagnosis. The study highlights that most genetic research has been conducted in individuals with a condition or high-risk family, resulting in underestimated risk estimates.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalEuropean Journal of Human Genetics·TypeObservational study·DateJun 15, 2026

Genetic testing allows fast diagnosis of rare pancreatic condition in 98 per cent of babies

A new study from the University of Exeter found that genetic testing can identify the cause of pancreatic agenesis in 98 per cent of cases. This diagnosis allows healthcare professionals to provide families with a better understanding of the condition's impacts, risks, and help them find support.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJun 1, 2026

Transition to electric vehicles in Brazil and Mexico driven by domestic politics and global pressures, study shows

A new study by the University of Exeter reveals that Brazil and Mexico's EV growth has been shaped by factors beyond emissions and efficiency. The research highlights how domestic coalitions, market size, and foreign technology influences have driven policy decisions in both countries.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalPolitics and Governance·TypeObservational study·DateMay 29, 2026

Plants growing higher across Himalaya as climate warms

New research shows Himalayan plants shifting upwards at an alarming rate, with some regions experiencing a 6.95m per year increase in vegetation line. Climate change is cited as the primary driver, with reduced snow depth a key factor. The study's findings raise concerns about the impact on water cycles and ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·TypeImaging analysis·DateApr 14, 2026

Dormice weight fluctuates as climate changes

New research suggests that climate change causes dormice to gain weight before hibernation but lose weight after, potentially as a result of smaller bodies losing heat faster. The study also found that habitats with higher density hedgerows were associated with heavier dormice.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 25, 2026

Limited jobs block social mobility opportunities for young people in coastal and rural areas, study shows

A new study by the University of Exeter finds that limited job opportunities in coastal and rural areas constrain social mobility for young people. Those who stay in their local area are more likely to work in routine and manual jobs, while those from professional backgrounds have higher odds of moving to other regions.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalJournal of Youth Studies·DateMar 19, 2026

Bull sharks have ‘friends’

Researchers found that bull sharks have active social preferences and choose their social partners, similar to humans. The study revealed that adult sharks form the core of the social network, while younger sharks are less socially connected.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalAnimal Behaviour·DateMar 16, 2026