The University of the West Indies
Working, teaching and research at The University of the West Indies
Information about The University of the West Indies for Academics
Teaching and Research at The University of the West Indies
As the Caribbean's leading higher education institution, The University of the West Indies (The UWI) is distinguished by its commitment to excellence in teaching and research, possessing the largest pool of academic intellect and expertise committed to confronting the region's critical issues and the wider world.
Teaching Excellence
The UWI provides a comprehensive curriculum to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in an increasingly globalised world. The University offers various undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across multiple disciplines, facilitated by a pool of esteemed faculty members recognised for their academic contributions and industry connections. Emphasising critical thinking, innovation, and social responsibility, The UWI's teaching philosophy prepares graduates to address contemporary global challenges.
Research Initiatives
Research is a fundamental part of our mission, aimed at addressing the pressing issues facing the Caribbean and the broader global community. As the region confronts climate change and economic instability, The UWI has emerged as a vital source of evidence-based solutions. Our areas of focus include three primary goals:
1. Disciplinary Advancement: The UWI's commitment to research excellence enhances our global reputation and enriches the educational experience for our students. Collaborations with international partners enable The UWI to secure competitive research grants, further advancing academic inquiry.
2. Regional Development: Aligning with our mission to foster social transformation, The UWI's research agenda tackles key challenges related to sustainable development—including environmental, social, cultural, and economic issues essential to the Caribbean.
3. Innovation and Commercialisation: Recognising the importance of economic growth, The UWI focuses on turning innovative research into marketable solutions. Partnerships with industry drive the development of new products and services that enhance regional productivity and competitiveness. For instance, in 2024, our researchers at the Cave Hill Campus developed the world's first vehicle powered by renewable natural gas from Sargassum seaweed, rum distillery wastewater, and Blackbelly sheep manure. In 2025, the Campus also launched a new initiative to offer locally made diabetes shakes with Caribbean flavours, addressing the rise in diabetes prevalence in Barbados from 2001 to 2021. At St Augustine, researchers developed a premium asphalt-based coating tailored for tropical climates, addressing the local need for quality construction materials. Since its launch in the 2023-2024 academic year, the initiative has secured contracts and actively engaged with the community, demonstrating products and providing free repairs for local schools.
Research Clusters
The UWI has established specialised Research Clusters to effectively address our multifaceted research goals. These clusters serve as collaborative hubs for faculty and attract international researchers. Examples include:
Food Security and Climate Change
Crime Security and Justice
Generative AI for Good Research
Gender Research
Indigenous Studies
Resilience through Entrepreneurship
Reparatory Justice
Transdisciplinary Disaster Risk Management and Resilience
Global Recognition and Impact
The UWI has become a leading institution for research and innovation in the Caribbean, gaining global recognition for its contributions to sustainable development, health, climate science, and technology.
One key area of advancement is climate research. The UWI's efforts have led to establishing the Global Institute for Climate Smart and Resilient Development (GICSRD). Our scientists' insights have informed Caribbean governments' national climate policies on disaster risk reduction. Additionally, UWI researchers have collaborated with the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and have been among the largest contributors to significant studies on Small Island Developing States (SIDS). In 2018, the International Association of Universities designated The UWI as the lead institution for a Global University Consortium on Sustainable Development Goal 13 (Climate Action). The UWI has also been designated as the Hub Chair for Climate Action by the United Nations Academic Impact (UNAI) for the term spanning 2025 to 2027.
The UWI has played a crucial role in public health during the COVID-19 pandemic through its multi-disciplinary Task Force, advising governments and shaping health policies. The University also conducts essential research on non-communicable diseases, which notably affect Caribbean populations, and has highlighted the health risks climate change poses to SIDS through its research.
Innovation in agriculture and food security has also been another area of focus for The UWI, which is seeking to create sustainable farming technologies such as hydroponics and climate-smart agriculture. Additionally, the Cocoa Research Centre at St. Augustine has spearheaded a regional revival of the Caribbean's fine cocoa and chocolate industry, offering popular courses in chocolate-making.
Recognised for its research excellence, The UWI consistently ranks among the top universities globally. In 2023, The UWI was listed among the top 150 universities for research impact by Times Higher Education.
Join Us at The UWI
The UWI continues to align its research agenda with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), ensuring its contributions enhance lives across the Caribbean. Students, staff and partners will find an enriching academic environment that values innovative research and a commitment to social impact. Join us in our mission to advance knowledge and foster positive change in the Caribbean and beyond.