The second full set of data from the Understanding Society survey has been released, marking a milestone in the extensive longitudinal research project covering 30,500 households.

The current model for supplying pig meat to UK consumers is ineffective and beset by a 'trader mentality' from leading supermarkets, and would benefit from more integrated ownership where companies have a vested interest throughout the supply chain, concludes a report from the ESRC-funded Centre for Research on Socio-Cultural Change.

Fieldwork is beginning in a unique study which puts social scientists at the heart of disease prevention. The ESRC-funded Dynamic Drivers of Disease in Africa Consortium will study 'zoonotic' diseases – those which can be transmitted to humans from wild animals and livestock.

A recent ESRC study found that many working-class ethnic minority families are inspiring their children to be high educational achievers – even if the parents have had very little education themselves.

Over one third of UK equity trading volume being generated through high-speed computer-automated trading, with little to no human involvement. The issue and Foresight report is being highlighted in an event hosted by the ESRC-funded Systemic Risk Centre today - 'The Future of Computer Trading in Financial Markets'.

The amount that people give to charity is highly dependent on income, according to ESRC-supported research. Results from a game study suggests that donor level of income is vital in determining charitable donations.

Additive manufacturing, or '3D printing', is set to change the face of manufacturing. The Technology Strategy Board is launching a new £7 million research competition in partnership with the ESRC, the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council, and the Arts and Humanities Research Council.

In some areas of England, one in four adults has the maths skills of a seven to nine-year-old or below, according to new Skills for Life survey figures. The Targeted Initiative on Science and Mathematics Education, part-funded by ESRC, aims to boost engagement and understanding of maths and science for children and young people.

Having a financial background can greatly enhance the career prospects of women in business - helping them to converse in the 'language of business' and prove their credibility, according to a new study.

Research looking at how banks and other financial firms have begun to address the problems of risk culture has found that change is underway, with new programmes and experiments in risk management.