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LES LIVE - February/March
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Welcome to the second issue of LES Live, the new College all-staff e-newsletter, bringing you up-to-date with news, events and opportunities across our community.
If you have content suggestions for future issues, please contact Charlotte Jones (c.k.jones@bham.ac.uk) in the College Hub or your Head of School PA. |
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The laboratory in a suitcase
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The Ebola outbreak in West Africa was the deadliest occurrence of the disease since its discovery in 1976. Researchers, including Dr Nick Loman (Institute of Microbiology and Infection) designed a 'genome sequencing laboratory in a suitcase' which meant that the team could generate sequencing information in as little as 24 hours after receiving a sample. By sequencing 142 samples from Ebola patients in Guinea they were able to provide very detailed information about how cases were related, providing important clues to World Health Organisation epidemiologists battling to halt transmission of the virus.
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Memories occur quicker than the blink of an eye
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Our expertise in Psychology was showcased recently with articles in The Daily Mail and Die Zeit about research by Dr Simon Hanslmayr (Psychology) that found that episodic memory occurs quicker than previously thought. Using a brain scanner, the researchers discovered that memories can be recovered in just a tenth of a second - around a third of the time needed to blink. Dr Hanslmayr explained: "Episodic memories were thought to require searching within the hippocampus, and therefore take a little time, but these findings challenge that belief and illustrate a much more fast-acting response."
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Pioneering study to help adults delay frailty
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A major study, involving Professor Janice Thompson and Sarah Coleman (SportExR), has launched aiming to help older people stay fitter and live independently for longer. Funded by a £1.64m grant from the National Institute of Health Research, Project REACT (REtirement in ACTion) will target people aged over 65 years old who are starting to find everyday activities such as walking, climbing stairs and getting up from a chair difficult.
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Dangerous pollution in shisha bars |
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Researchers in GEES have found that revellers in shisha bars experience pollution levels higher than those in smog-hit Beijing, according to a report commissioned by Birmingham City Council - the first UK study of its kind. The investigation into air quality inside 12 shisha bars across the city found dangerous levels of carbon monoxide (CO) and fine particulate matter (PM2.5) - substances linked with respiratory illnesses such as cardiovascular disease, bronchial asthma, lung cancer and low birth rate in pregnant women.
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Severe drought no longer caused just by nature
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Our Water Science Research Group is leading key researchers from 13 organisations in eight countries to redefine how the world should study and tackle drought. Experts say that severe droughts experienced recently in countries such as China, Brazil and the United States can no longer be seen as purely natural hazards and that changes to the way people use the water and the landscape contribute to extreme water shortages. Dr Anne Van Loon (GEES) explained: "Whilst human activity can contribute to worsening drought, society can also play its part in tackling water shortages. However, we can only begin to take positive global action against drought when evaluating the relationship between nature and people and its impact."
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Dr Susannah Thorpe awarded Royal Society Leverhulme Trust Senior Research Fellowship
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Congratulations to Dr Susannah Thorpe (Biosciences), who has been honoured with the award of Royal Society Leverhulme Trust Senior Research Fellowship to pursue her research in the area of human evolution and, in particular, the origins of human bipedalism. Dr Thorpe will study human indigenous climbers in Malaysia, that routinely climb in the forest canopy to access honey, and UK professional tree climbers.
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HRH Duke of Cambridge commends SportExR researchers
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Researchers from SportExR, Dr Jennifer Cumming, Dr Sam Cooley, and Mary Quinton, had the privilege of being included in HRH Duke of Cambridge's return visit to St Basils Centre (St Basils works with young people aged 16-25 who are homeless or at risk of homelessness) to update him on the Mental Skills Training for Life programme. In a private meeting, the Duke was pleased to hear that over 100 young people have received the programme since his last visit and about the positive results found to date. In addition, Dr Cumming and her team (The BEST project) have recently been awarded £24,988 by the St Basils Centre for a project entitled the 'Monday Trust Funding Evaluation Plan'. Their model of intervention aims at enhancing the quality of young people's experience whilst living at St Basils and produce the best possible outcomes.
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Enabling local governments to adapt to climate change
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Drs Lee Chapman and Xiaoming Cai (GEES), recently had their research showcased in the NERC 2015 Impact Report. This was one of a small number of REF2014 impact case studies selected as evidence to show how NERC investments are contributing to UK prosperity and wellbeing. Entitled 'Enabling local governments to adapt to climate change' the article showcases urban heat island research at UoB, explaining how the Birmingham Urban Climate Laboratory is being used to inform planning tools and increased the resilience of infrastructure to urban heat and climate change. For more information, visit page 15 in PDF the link below. |
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BIFoR FACE facility takes shape
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The BIFoR FACE facility changed almost overnight when the helicopter crew came to place each of the 100+ masts. BBC Midlands News covered the action in a feature titled 'BIFoR FACE takes shape using the construction equivalent of keyhole surgery' with over 15,000 people watching online on their Facebook pages. In addition to this, the prestigious BIFoR project has been at the fore with Professor Rob Mackenzie interviewed recently by David Gregory-Kumar for a piece on BBC Midlands Today about progress at the forest.
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Additional workshop date: An Introduction to Public Engagement
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4 March, 09:30 - 12:30, G42 Civil and Mechanical Engineering
Are you a PhD student or early career researcher? Are you interested in getting involved with public engagement but are unsure how to communicate your research effectively? If so, come along to an introductory workshop to learn valuable skills to get you started with public engagement! The workshop is open to postgraduate and early career researchers from all colleges. To reserve your place, please email c.d.t.gillett@bham.ac.uk with 'Revealing Research Workshop' in the title. Please also include your name, position (e.g. second Year PhD, Postdoc), school/department and your college. |
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New Technology-Enhanced Learning Hub
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On 4 January 2016, the new Technology-Enhanced Learning (TEL) team was formed, operating on a hub and spoke model. For the first time, LES will have access to college-specific e-learning support. The TEL Hub is formed as a University-wide network of professionals and academic partners, developing excellence in TEL across our communities. The college welcomes Rob Jones (e-learning Instructional Consultant) and Joe Berry (Partnership and Development Manager) who are based in office SG26 in the Biosciences Building.
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To all lecturers - Panopto recording training
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25 February, 15:00 - 17:00 | 10 March, 15:00 - 17:00
To ensure LES remains committed to the University's intention to record sessions, there will be a round of Panopto training sessions for staff which will take place in Room G11, Nuffield Building. |
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Li Siguang Scholarships 2016
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Deadline for applications to the college is 25 February 2016
The University is offering four PhD Scholarships for students from China for 2016 entry. This scholarship scheme is named in honour of Li Siguang, one of Birmingham's most famous Chinese graduates, and offered in partnership with the China Scholarship Council (CSC). The scholarship is open to all fields of study, however preference is given to research in science and technology. Contact your school Head of Education for more information. |
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GREAT Life Sciences Scholarship - India 2016
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Applications now open with a deadline of 15 June 2016
The College, in partnership with the British Council India, is offering three undergraduate scholarships to outstanding candidates from India for 2016 entry. The scholarship awards £5,000 towards the reduction of tuition fees. |
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Universitas 21: PhD scholarships
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Applications now open with a deadline of 28 March 2016
International Relations offer a number of scholarships each year to assist PGR students in travelling to our U21 partners to further their research. Each scholarship covers up to £1,500 of travel and subsistence costs. A visit would be expected to be for a period of up to or around one month in duration. For a full list of U21 members please visit the U21 website. |
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Student Development Scholarships
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Applications now open with a deadline of midnight, 19 February 2016
The competition to apply for a Student Development Scholarship is now open. The Scheme incorporates a range of awards which provide financial support to students (UG or PG) enabling them to undertake worthwhile and original travel projects intended to further their personal/academic development. All students who submit an application must also supply an academic reference in support of their application. |
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National Student Survey 2016
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The twelfth annual NSS is open between 11 January and 30 April 2016. Please encourage all final-year UG students to participate in the survey as the results help to inform the choices of prospective students and provide data that assists the college and the University in enhancing the student experience.
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Save the date: College Assembly
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9 March, 14:00 - 15:00, Lecture Theatre G31, Civil & Mechanical Engineering Building
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Exciting prospects for the School of Psychology |
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The University recently approved an (increased) budget of £18.5M for the School of Psychology's new accommodation on Pritchatts Road, which should allow the School to realise its ambitious plans to provide an outstanding space for staff and students. The increased spend was necessary to develop the new Centre for Human Brain Health. The Centre will house a new MRI facility and a new MEG facility that has just been agreed. All in all, this brings UoB's recent investment in Psychology to £25M! This investment is a direct result of the school's teaching excellence, outstanding REF 2014 performance, and successful UG/PG recruitment.
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College staff shortlisted for BUAFTAs
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Congratulations to Deanne Brettle and Robert (Bob) Hall who have been shortlisted for 2016 BUAFTAs. Deanne has been nominated for Best Newcomer. Since joining the University as administrator for the Birmingham Institute of Forest Research (BIFoR), Deanne has expertly managed a dizzying set of internal and external relationships, acting as the friendly and informed 'face' of the Institute. Bob has been nominated for Excellent Support for Teaching and Learning. Bob is a key member of the Technical Support for Teaching Team and has been a rich source of information and expertise, willingly providing advice and training for students and staff in technical matters. |
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Nominations open: LES Rep Academy Awards
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Nominations close midnight 1 March 2016
The college has got some truly fantastic UG Student Reps this year and it would be fantastic to reocgnise their hard work. If you know of a Rep who's worked hard and would like them to receive recognition for their efforts in this voluntary role, please follow the link below to nominate them for a LES Student Rep Academy Award. |
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Seminar Series: Musculoskeletal Health in Ageing and Wellbeing
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22 February, 16:00, D96a Medical School, QMC
The Musculoskeletal Health in Ageing and Wellbeing RPA has recently been established around a vision to create a world-class multidisciplinary translational research environment and infrastructure across the University of Nottingham and beyond, including UoB. The first seminar in the series will be given by Eef Hogervorst, Professor of Biological Psychology at Loughborough University, on her work involving 'resistance band exercise affecting physical and cognitive outcome in sedentary elderly people'. |
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Lapworth Museum drop-in sessions
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24 February, between 13:00 - 15:00 | 2 March, between 13:00 - 14:00
The Lapworth Museum of Geology will be having a number of informal drop-in sessions to allow college staff to see the progress that has been made with the Museum Redevelopment Project, and what is planned during the main fit out stage leading up to re-opening on the 10 June 2016. Members of the Project Team will be available to show you what has been happening and the plans.
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Get out, stay out - Supporting LGBT employees to succeed in the workplace
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16 February, 13:30 - 16:30, LG14, Learning Centre
Changes in the law have offered increasing protection to the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/questioning community. Despite this, graduates often return to the closet once starting work, and openly LGBTQ people continue to be under-represented in senior roles in both public and private sectors. This interactive workshop will look at the experiences of LGBTQ people in the workplace and identify practical steps that individuals and organisations (LGBTQ or straight) can take that will enable LGBTQ staff to thrive at work. Anyone from the LGBTQ or straight community is welcome to attend this free event. |
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BBSRC Fellowships Team visit
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22 February, 13:00-15:00, LG14 Learning Centre
The BBSRC will provide an overview of their current fellowships schemes and research priorities, as well as tips on how to craft the strongest applications. In addition, current and previous fellows will talk about their experiences in applying for and holding a fellowship, which while focussed on BBSRC are likely to be of interest to those thinking of applying to other funders. All staff are welcome to attend. Please register with Judith Wood. |
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L'Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Fellowship
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Deadline for applications is 11 March 2016
L'Oréal-UNESCO will be awarding five outstanding female postdoctoral scientists a fellowship of £15,000. The fellowships are open to female postdoctoral researchers working in the field of life and physical sciences, engineering, mathematics and computer sciences. This unique award is designed to provide practical help to aid female postdoctoral in continuing their cutting-edge research. The fellowship can be spent as the fellow wishes; it could buy a piece of scientific equipment, help to cover child care costs or be used to fund conference travel. |
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Nominations open: The Michael K. O'Rourke PhD Best Publication Award 2016
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Deadline for the 2016 nominations is 16 March 2016
The Michael K. O'Rourke Best Publication Award is a prestigious award that recognises outstanding achievement in the publication of a postgraduate researcher's research. Five winners are selected, one for each college - each receiving a prize of £300. An overall University winner will receive £500. |
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Nominations open: Awards for Excellence in Doctoral Researcher Supervision 2016
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Deadline for the 2016 nominations is 23 March 2016
The Award for Excellence in Doctoral Researcher Supervision is running again this year and recognises outstanding achievement among PhD supervisors. Nominations can be made by current PhD researchers and academic members of staff. Any current Birmingham academic member of staff who supervises candidates on PhD programmes can be nominated and they need to give permission to be nominated beforehand. Five winners are selected, one for each college - each receiving a prize of £1,000 to support their research. |
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New faces
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Welcome to Kirsty Hardwick who started as College Infrastructure Manager and Operations Manager for GEES on 1 February. Kirsty replaces Ian Tidmarsh who is currently on secondment as Head of Operations with the Central Teaching Laboratory.
Welcome to Ipshita Ghose who recently started as Research Facilitator in the Research Support Office.
Welcome to Pat Callaghan who recently started as PA to the college Head of HR. |
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Nostalgic exhibition begins
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From February onwards, University Square
More than four decades after her death, Birmingham photographer Phyllis Nicklin is enjoying a major renaissance in the city. The Birmingham graduate and postgraduate left behind hundreds of colour pictures of the city in her day which have fed a rising demand for 'Brummie' nostalgia. The Nicklin Unseen images which go on show in University Square this week, were taken over a 16-year period which saw major change in the city. |
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What's on at the Bramall? Birmingham Contemporary Music Group
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20 February, 19:30, The Dome, Bramall Music Building
The UK's leading contemporary music ensemble BCMG closes the inaugural CrossCurrents festival with a multifaceted programme featuring no fewer than twelve world premieres. Tickets cost £14. |
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Register: Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson DBE to deliver Baggs Memorial Happiness Lecture
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Register now for 20 June 2016, 18:30, Great Hall, Aston Webb
Register now for the highly popular annual Happiness Lecture to be delivered by one of Britain's greatest Paralympic athletes, Tanni Grey Thompson. As a working peer Tanni uses her experience and knowledge during debates in the Lords and she has spoken on a range of issues including disability rights, welfare reform, and of course, sport. |
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LES Community - Davis Cup Tennis
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Between 4-6 March, Barclaycard Arena, Birmingham
Get set Birmingham! The Aegon GB Davis Cup Team will be rolling into town for the exciting Davis Cup by BNP Paribas World Group first-round clash against Japan in March. The tie, which takes place in the 9,000 capacity Barclaycard Arena, will be only the second time the sides have met in the biggest team competition in tennis. |
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LES Wellbeing - Mindfulness course
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23 February, 19:00, The Red Lion Knowle, Solihull
This mindfulness-based stress reduction course will help you find ways of living life with less stress, help you cope better and improve your sense of well being and quality of life. Learn how to; live life in the present moment, let go of negative thoughts, be happier and more content, sleep better, and reduce stress and anxiety. £7 per session. |
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Please submit news items/suggestions for content for the forthcoming issues to Charlotte Jones
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Address: The University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT
Tel: +44 (0)121 414 5473
Email: c.k.jones@bham.ac.uk
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