Ngā paerangiResearch awards, global rankings and performance
Victoria University of Wellington is recognised internationally for the quality and impact of its research. Our global rankings, awards, and performance measures reflect the strength of our researchers and the contribution we make to Aotearoa and the world.
Research awards
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2025 Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year
Professor Bev Lawton (Ngāti Porou) award recognised her advocacy and advancements in cervical cancer screening, maternal health, and indigenous health equity.
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RSNZ Early Career Research Excellence
Dr Ayca Akillic's award recognises her work exploring and elevating the voices of women converts to Islam in post-Christchurch Aotearoa.
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Hamilton Award: Early Career Research Excellence
Dr Mat Anker's award recognises the ground-breaking discovery of the four-electron reduction of benzene enabling new classes of data-storage materials.
Global university rankings
Victoria University of Wellington is ranked in the top 2% of universities globally, with 16 subject areas in the global top 1%.
We are internationally recognised for our academic excellence, research performance, employment outcomes and sustainability.
Our rankings results reflect a university that is internationally connected, known for its teaching and subject strengths, our diverse staff from across the globe, and our focus on preparing students for successful careers that contribute positively to society.
We are also 5-Star Plus rated for excellence in our research and teaching.
Explore our Global university rankings page for more information about our rankings in the internationally recognised university rankings systems, including our subject and sustainability rankings, and our 'Triple Crown' accreditation.
Research performance
Research performance at the University reflects how our researchers create new knowledge, collaborate with partners, share expertise, and contribute to social, cultural, environmental, and economic wellbeing.
You can download this research snapshot (PDF, 110 KB) which highlights the contributions of our research community in 2025, including the people, outputs, funding, and outcomes achieved.