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The 50 largest research institutes in the United Kingdom

Tamtam tracks 216 research institutes headquartered in the United Kingdom. This list ranks the 50 largest by number of employees on LinkedIn, led by UCL, University of Oxford and King's College London. Their median headcount is 6,635. Half of them were founded in 1895 or later. The most common headquarters are London (8), Birmingham (2) and Cambridge (2).

馃嚞馃嚙 United Kingdom50 companiesUpdated Nov 12, 2026

This list comprises the largest research institutes in the United Kingdom, predominantly universities. These are large organizations dedicated to higher education and research services. Noteworthy institutions include University of Oxford, a leading university fostering innovation; Imperial College London, specializing in science, medicine, engineering, and business; and The University of Manchester, known for teaching excellence and research innovation.

A significant pattern in the data is the concentration of these large research institutions in major cities across the UK, with several prominent universities located in London, such as UCL, King's College London, and Imperial College London. Other major hubs include Oxford, Cambridge, and Edinburgh.

#CompanyIndustryHeadquarters EmployeesFounded
1
UCLucl.ac.uk

Leading multidisciplinary university in London, promoting academic excellence, inclusive education, and impactful research addressing real-world challenges.

Research Services 馃嚞馃嚙 London 24,678 n/a
2
University of Oxfordox.ac.uk

A leading university in various academic disciplines, fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and social support while upholding respect and banning hate speech

Higher Education 馃嚞馃嚙 Oxford 23,103 1096
3
King's College Londonkcl.ac.uk

Top-ranked university offering world-class education and research, fostering innovation and positive societal impact globally and locally.

Research Services 馃嚞馃嚙 London 20,705 n/a
4
University of Cambridgecam.ac.uk

A leading research university with 31 Colleges and over 150 departments, faculties, and schools, focused on excellence in education and research

Research Services 馃嚞馃嚙 Cambridge 20,304 n/a
5
The University of Manchestermanchester.ac.uk

A prestigious university known for teaching excellence, research innovation, and a history of world firsts, with a large global alumni community

Higher Education 馃嚞馃嚙 Manchester 20,294 1824
6
Imperial College Londonimperial.ac.uk

Leading university specializing in science, medicine, engineering, and business, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration to advance knowledge and improve health.

Research Services 馃嚞馃嚙 London 18,233 1907
7
The University of Edinburghed.ac.uk

A world-leading university offering globally recognized teaching, research, and innovation for over 425 years, unlocking the potential of students worldwide

Research Services 馃嚞馃嚙 Edinburgh 16,057 1583
8
University of Birminghambirmingham.ac.uk

A prestigious university with a century-long tradition of innovation and impactful research, shaping great minds and pushing boundaries of knowledge

Higher Education 馃嚞馃嚙 Birmingham 14,952 1900
9
University of Leedsleeds.ac.uk

A top research university in the UK with a focus on creating knowledge, educating students, and making a positive impact through research and innovation

Higher Education 馃嚞馃嚙 Leeds 14,683 1904
10
University of Nottinghamnottingham.ac.uk

A pioneering university with campuses in the UK, China, and Malaysia that aims to transform the lives of its 45,000 students

Higher Education 馃嚞馃嚙 Nottingham 12,740 1948
11
University of Glasgowgla.ac.uk

The company focuses on conducting cutting-edge research, providing a student-centered learning environment, and contributing to Scottish culture, the environment, and the economy

Higher Education 馃嚞馃嚙 Glasgow 11,990 n/a
12
The University of Sheffieldsheffield.ac.uk

A leading Russell Group university with a diverse community of students and staff, advancing research, partnerships, and global impact in various industries

Higher Education 馃嚞馃嚙 Sheffield 11,417 1905
13
University of Liverpoolliverpool.ac.uk

A renowned research and innovation center that attracts global students, experts, and partners, shaping lives and the world through collaborations

Higher Education 馃嚞馃嚙 Liverpool 10,897 n/a
14
University of Southamptonsouthampton.ac.uk

A prestigious university in southern England, ranked among the top 100 worldwide and a founding member of the Russell Group

Higher Education 馃嚞馃嚙 Southampton 10,786 1862
15
University of Exeterexeter.ac.uk

A leading research-intensive university in the South West of England, offering a diverse range of subjects in a welcoming international environment

Higher Education 馃嚞馃嚙 Exeter 10,489 1955
16
Newcastle Universityncl.ac.uk

Research-intensive university, world-class reputation in medicine, science, engineering, social sciences, humanities; providing excellent research-led teaching for high graduate employment rates.

Higher Education 馃嚞馃嚙 Newcastle upon Tyne 10,332 n/a
17
University of Warwickwarwick.ac.uk

Leading university with high academic and research standards, consistently making a global impact through its students, alumni, and staff.

Higher Education 馃嚞馃嚙 Coventry 10,327 1965
18
Cardiff University / Prifysgol Caerdyddcardiff.ac.uk

An ambitious and innovative university committed to providing outstanding education and impactful research, forming global collaborations to fulfill social, cultural, and economic obligations

Higher Education 馃嚞馃嚙 Cardiff 9,765 1883
19
The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)lse.ac.uk

A leading university specializing in the social sciences, committed to excellence and innovation in research and education

Higher Education 馃嚞馃嚙 London 9,613 1895
20
The Manchester Metropolitan Universitymmu.ac.uk

Provides diverse academic programs, excels in research, promotes social mobility, sustainability, and supports community and business partnerships.

Higher Education 馃嚞馃嚙 Manchester 8,837 1970
21
Queen Mary University of Londonqmul.ac.uk

A world-leading research university with over 32,000 students from 170+ nationalities, offering 240+ degree programs and recognized for excellent teaching

Higher Education 馃嚞馃嚙 London 8,803 1785
22
Queen's University Belfastqub.ac.uk

A renowned university with over 150 years of academic excellence, offering a wide range of degree programs and a strong research focus

Higher Education 馃嚞馃嚙 Belfast 7,278 1845
23
University of Yorkyork.ac.uk

A dynamic university conducting groundbreaking research to develop life-saving discoveries and innovative technologies, while inspiring students to think critically and create change

Higher Education 馃嚞馃嚙 York 6,993 1963
24
University of Bathbath.ac.uk

A leading UK research university dedicated to making a positive impact on the world through innovation, collaboration with industry, and quality education Located in Bath, UK

Higher Education 馃嚞馃嚙 Bath 6,784 1966
25
University of Leicesterlinktr.ee

A leading company focused on discovery, innovation, and research-inspired education, ranked 22nd in the UK, with a commitment to fostering change #CitizensOfChange

Higher Education 馃嚞馃嚙 Leicester 6,635 1921

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26
Durham Universitydurham.ac.uk

A UK university providing inspiration and opportunities for a successful community, serving as a key hub regionally and nationally Visit website for career opportunities

Higher Education 馃嚞馃嚙 Durham 6,609 1832
27
University of East Angliauea.ac.uk

Providing diverse undergraduate and postgraduate education, extensive research facilities, cultural events, and top-quality sports and social amenities on campus.

Higher Education 馃嚞馃嚙 Norwich 6,316 1963
28
Loughborough Universitylboro.ac.uk

University providing world-class research, excellent student experience, sporting achievements, and enterprise opportunities across campuses in Leicestershire and London.

Higher Education 馃嚞馃嚙 Loughborough 6,315 1909
29
Northumbria Universitynorthumbria.ac.uk

Research-intensive university fostering innovation, partnerships, and knowledge exchange to empower students and staff for global impact and societal change.

Higher Education 馃嚞馃嚙 Newcastle upon Tyne 6,280 n/a
30
Birmingham City Universitybcu.ac.uk

Higher education institution offering practice-led courses, industry partnerships, professional accreditations, real-world experience, and impactful research shaping various sectors.

Higher Education 馃嚞馃嚙 Birmingham 6,064 n/a
31
The University of Salfordsalford.ac.uk

Ambitious university with 20,000 students driving local economy and transforming individuals through teaching, research, innovation, and engagement in various fields

Higher Education 馃嚞馃嚙 Salford 5,864 1967
32
University of Plymouthplymouth.ac.uk

Modern university with dynamic culture, high student satisfaction, impactful research, innovation, and commitment to global societal and educational advancement.

Higher Education 馃嚞馃嚙 Plymouth 5,745 1862
33
University of Portsmouthlinktr.ee

Progressive university with a global impact, partnering with industry and government to create a better future through education and innovation

Higher Education 馃嚞馃嚙 Portsmouth 5,717 1869
34
University of Readingreading.ac.uk

A leading research university in the UK with a focus on sustainability, climate research, and a diverse community of alumni and students

Higher Education 馃嚞馃嚙 Reading 5,661 1892
35
Anglia Ruskin Universityaru.ac.uk

Innovative global university with campuses in UK cities, offering top-ranked courses, industry partnerships, and world-leading research opportunities for students

Higher Education 馃嚞馃嚙 Cambridge 5,648 1858
36
Swansea University / Prifysgol Abertaweswansea.ac.uk

Research-led university offering excellent teaching, producing globally recognized research, and contributing to economic growth and community wellbeing.

Higher Education 馃嚞馃嚙 Swansea 5,646 1920
37
University of Surreysurrey.ac.uk

Provides diverse undergraduate courses, student support, clubs, and safe accommodation in a vibrant campus environment near London.

Higher Education 馃嚞馃嚙 Guildford 5,511 1891
38
Cancer Research UK (CRUK)cancerresearchuk.org

Dedicated to cancer research, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment, funded by public donations to improve survival and quality of life.

Non-profit Organizations 馃嚞馃嚙 London 5,433 n/a
39
University of Sussexsussex.ac.uk

University offering diverse, research-informed teaching and learning programs with a focus on creativity, intellectual challenge, and inclusivity.

Higher Education 馃嚞馃嚙 Brighton 5,299 1961
40
Liverpool John Moores Universityljmu.ac.uk

A dynamic university in the UK with over 28,000 students from 100 countries offering 250 degree courses, committed to equality and inclusion

Higher Education 馃嚞馃嚙 Liverpool 5,262 1823
41
City St George鈥檚, University of Londoncity.ac.uk

An innovative university in London, transforming lives through education, research, and global impact, with strong ties to business and sustainability

Higher Education 馃嚞馃嚙 London 5,160 n/a
42
Leeds Beckett Universityleedsbeckett.ac.uk

A modern professional university in Leeds, focused on student success, innovation, and global impact, with a rich history dating back to 1824

Higher Education 馃嚞馃嚙 Leeds 4,958 1824
43
University of Central Lancashireuclan.ac.uk

A university founded in 1828 with a motto of helping individuals reach their full potential, offering state-of-the-art facilities and world-class education

Higher Education 馃嚞馃嚙 Preston 4,879 1828
44
Oxford Brookes Universitybrookes.ac.uk

Leading UK university in Oxford offering diverse courses, research, and services to businesses with strong industry links and a focus on innovation and excellence

Higher Education 馃嚞馃嚙 Oxford 4,862 1865
45
De Montfort Universitydmu.ac.uk

University providing inclusive education, career support, sustainability initiatives, and community empowerment to help students achieve professional and personal success.

Higher Education 馃嚞馃嚙 Leicester 4,814 n/a
46
University of Aberdeenlinktr.ee

A forward-thinking university in Northeast Scotland promotes interdisciplinary approaches to innovation, breaking boundaries and fostering impactful ideas for global change

Higher Education 馃嚞馃嚙 Aberdeen 4,723 1495
47
University of St Andrewsst-andrews.ac.uk

A prestigious university in the UK, ranking top in various guides, offering over 900 degree courses across four faculties and attracting a diverse international community

Higher Education 馃嚞馃嚙 St Andrews 4,433 1413
48
University of Kentkent.ac.uk

A highly-regarded institution focused on academic programs and research support Learn more at their website

Higher Education 馃嚞馃嚙 Canterbury 4,342 1965
49
London Business Schoollondon.edu

Top-ranked business school offering MBA and executive education with global presence, diverse faculty, and extensive alumni network.

Higher Education 馃嚞馃嚙 London 4,266 1964
50
University of Essexessex.ac.uk

Promoting excellence in education and research, offering research-led teaching and outstanding campus experience Inviting alumni to professional networking opportunities

Higher Education 馃嚞馃嚙 Essex 4,158 1964

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How this list is built

Every company on this list has a Tamtam company profile. The industry is the one the company gives on LinkedIn; categories such as SaaS or fintech are classified by Tamtam's AI from the company's website and LinkedIn page; and the headquarters city must match the company's own address. Companies are ranked by the number of employees on LinkedIn, and the list is refreshed every night. Classifications can be wrong, so treat the list as a starting point rather than an official ranking. Last updated Nov 12, 2026.

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