Research

We have incredible resources for studying and researching our collections and archives both at the Museum, in our study centres and online.

Research is deeply embedded in the V&A’s institutional culture, as we strive to promote knowledge, understanding and enjoyment of the designed world.

Our staff are engaged in a diverse range of research activities across the fields of art, design and performance; conservation and collections management; and object-led, museum-based learning.

The V&A Research Institute (VARI) hosts programmes of research and teaching that enhance access to the V&A's collections and develop new approaches to research, training, display and interpretation. It was launched in 2016 with generous funding from the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation following a successful VARI Pilot Project.

The V&A/RCA Programme (MA, MPhil and PhD) is internationally recognised as the leading centre for postgraduate study in the history of design and material culture. Combining ambitious, rigorous and cutting-edge scholarly approaches with first-hand understanding of material and digital artefacts, the History of Design programme is ideally suited to prepare students for the increasingly diverse and flexible professional portfolio demanded today.

Since 2005, the V&A has worked with UK Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) on AHRC-funded Collaborative Doctoral Awards, engaging with a wide range of doctoral projects.

Discover some of the latest research relating to our collections, public programme and history in our Online Journal.

Discover progress reports and provocations, sneak previews and glimpses behind the scenes, from people working on and in our collections.