University of Cambridge.

The University of Cambridge commissioned Modern Designers to develop a new editorial framework for Research Horizons, a publication that communicates world leading research to alumni, partners and international stakeholders.

The challenge was clarity and authority. To distill complex thinking and technical research into compelling stories without losing intellectual rigour. The magazine had to be accessible to a broad global readership while feeling unmistakably Cambridge.

Our approach focused on structure first. Clear story architecture, disciplined grid systems and a consistent visual rhythm ensured the magazine could handle diverse subject matter without feeling fragmented. The result was a publication that strengthened Cambridge’s research voice, reinforcing its global reputation for innovation, depth and academic excellence.

A refined editorial system was built around confident typography, strong hierarchy and generous white space. The design balanced academic credibility with narrative energy, allowing long form features, interviews and research spotlights to sit comfortably alongside data, infographics and photography.