Advancing Research for Type 1 Diabetes at Exeter University

We are proud to announce a new research partnership with the University of Exeter, supported by a £330,000 grant for vital research into protecting the insulin-producing cells affected by type 1 diabetes.

In type 1 diabetes, the immune system mistakenly attacks the pancreas's insulin-producing cells. Researchers believe that immune checkpoints — the body's natural “do not attack” signals — could be key to stopping this damage.

Led by Professor Sarah Richardson and Dr. Matthew Johnson, the research team is studying immune signals to identify the biological pathways involved, understand why these protective mechanisms sometimes fail, and inform the development of targeted therapies and improved cell transplants.

Through this partnership, the research aims to bring us closer to better outcomes for people living with type 1 diabetes.

About University of Exeter

The University of Exeter is a world-leading Russell Group university, ranked 136th in the QS World University Rankings 2027, its highest-ever position. Exeter has 29,700 students from more than 150 countries and combines world-class research with an outstanding student experience. Exeter is one of only four Russell Group universities to hold Triple Gold in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023, achieving Gold ratings overall and for both Student Experience and Student Outcomes. In the UK, the University is ranked 11th in the Complete University Guide 2027, 16th in the Guardian University Guide 2027 and 14th in The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026, where it was named runner-up for Sustainable University of the Year.

Exeter was also named University of the Year at the UK Social Mobility Awards 2025. In the 2021 Research Excellence Framework (REF), more than 99% of Exeter’s research was rated as being of international quality, and its world-leading research impact grew by 72% compared with 2014, more than any other Russell Group university. At the heart of the University’s Strategy 2030 is a commitment to creating a greener, healthier and fairer future through its education, research and partnerships. Exeter is ranked joint 20th globally, and within the top 1.5% of institutions assessed, in the Times Higher Education Sustainability Impact Ratings 2026 for its progress towards delivering the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.