Rankings reflect cross-disciplinary work of universities aimed at solving the world’s biggest challenges
The University of Wollongong (UOW) has achieved 52nd place globally and 4th in Australia in the inaugural Times Higher Education (THE) Interdisciplinary Science Rankings 2025.
This recognition based on an evaluation of over 700 universities from 92 different countries highlights UOW’s strength in promoting research that transcends traditional academic boundaries through research and collaboration to address complex global challenges.
Interdisciplinary collaboration at UOW is driving innovation in areas such as climate change, renewable energy, artificial intelligence, health, and sustainable development.
Researchers at UOW are coming together from diverse fields to tackle local challenges and make a global impact. For example, experts in biotechnology, data science, and engineering are collaborating to develop advanced medical devices and AI-driven health solutions, including wearable health monitoring devices that use AI to predict health outcomes—blending expertise from engineering, computer science, and healthcare.
UOW Interim Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Vice-President (Research and Sustainable Futures) Senior Professor Eileen McLaughlin said integrating diverse knowledge and expertise is crucial to create innovative solutions that drive progress and societal impact.
“The challenges we face today—climate change, health crises, sustainable development—require collaboration across disciplines,” Professor McLaughlin said.
“At UOW, we’ve built a culture of working together to find innovative solutions. Being ranked 52nd globally complements the outstanding work of our researchers and the impact they’re having around the world.”
“UOW’s interdisciplinary research is driving global change, from breakthroughs in sustainable energy technologies to advancements in health and medical innovations that improve lives.
“Partnerships with industry, governments, and international institutions further amplify the university’s capacity to deliver impactful research.”
