bulletin SPRING 2019 STAFF MAGAZINE
Fair field and no favour A University anniversary coincides with International Women’s Day
Don’t cross Out of An Edinburgh Spot the the line office perspective difference Zero tolerance of bullying What do you get up to The Edinburgh Global Win vouchers for in the workplace outside of working hours? photography competition Filmhouse, Edinburgh welcome
to the spring Welcomeedition of your staff magazine. The cover of this issue is an illustration of Sophia Jex-Blake – one of the Edinburgh Seven. We celebrate the legacy of these women, and more, in our cover story on pages 8 and 9.
How do you like to spend your time out of the office? In this issue three staff members share their ultimate hobbies. Find this on pages 16 to 18.
Our Dignity and Respect policy is extremely important to staff and
student wellbeing. We caught up with Denise Boyle and Dr Caroline Published by Wallace in Human Resources (HR) to ask them about the latest Communications and Marketing campaign, Don’t Cross the Line. You can read this on page 15. Printed by J Thomson Colour Printers On pages 10 and 11, you can see the stunning winners of this year’s This publication is available in alternative Student Photography Competition, run by Edinburgh Global. Read our formats on request. Please contact [email protected] lunch mates feature set at the King’s Buildings on page 19, and don’t © The University of Edinburgh 2019 forget to try our competition on page 20 for the chance to win a great The University of Edinburgh is a charitable body, prize. registered in Scotland, with registration number SC005336. 8 If you would like to to submit ideas or feedback to bulletin, please contact us at [email protected] or +44 (0)131 650 6508. For regular updates, visit Staff News at www.ed.ac.uk/news/staff
Cover image: Courtesy of Lothian Health Services Archive, Edinburgh University Library Cover image: Courtesy of Lothian Health Services Archive, and follow us on Twitter @EdinUniStaff
Return to Old College
This January the Law School returned to Old College after the refurbishments were completed thanks to LDN Architects and Graham Construction. The Estates team and the Law School collaborated to ensure that the new facilities are state of the art and fully support the School’s academic vision to become a world top ten law school in the next decade. New additions to the facilities include the Quad Café which is open to all staff and students, and the stunning Law Library. Pictured here is the Senate Room. Sam Sills; Chris Close; Paul Dodds
2 bulletin SPRING 2019 The University of Edinburgh staff magazine university update Defining our values by Professor Peter Mathieson, Principal and Vice-Chancellor
he new year gives for the most talented people from all our values. So far, I have met with us an opportunity over the world. We aim to be not only staff at a series of five open town hall Tto look ahead and accessible and inclusive to all but relevant meetings across our campuses, with define what is important to the whole of society, recognising University Court, the Heads of School, for the coming months. our obligations to the city, region and the University Executive Group and the Scotland as well as our international Senior Leadership team. I would like to It is fitting, then, that standing. We aspire to create a strong thank everyone that has contributed to we are at an advanced sense of community with, and for, all. these discussions, whether by attending stage of developing the University’s new in person or through email or other strategic plan. The distinctive features of We will always be a Scottish university channels. the new plan will be greater emphasis on with global outreach and international values than previously; a more people- partnerships. We will invest in excellence On that note, there are too few focused approach; and the definition of to attract and retain the best students opportunities to say a public thank you to a small number of high-level strategic and staff but we will not grow for growth’s all of you who do so much to make the priorities for our research, teaching and sake. We will lead the way in data-driven University the success that it is. Thank knowledge exchange that will contribute innovation to become the data capital you all for your hard work, dedication and to our overall aim of making the world a of Europe, building public trust in the commitment. We have much to be proud better place. I believe it is important for the ethical use of data. We will extend porous of and no one should be in any doubt University to define carefully its principles boundaries not only between our schools that they are working at one of the world’s in relation to its people, city, region, nation and colleges, but also with industry and great universities in one of the world’s and the rest of the world in this way. government. We will celebrate critical great cities. I look forward to contributing thinking so that all our graduates are to making it even better, and I urge you to The people-focus of the new strategic equipped to make a difference in the join in that effort. plan will see us cherishing our students, world. staff, alumni and friends and celebrating 8 To stay up to date with the latest their many achievements. We will make I am keen to engage with the entire developments visit www.ed.ac.uk/ the University a destination of choice University in exploring and defining strategic-plan/2019
Widening Participation strategy progresses
October 2018 saw the University launch a new Widening Participation (WP) strategy. It focuses on four strands; aspiration and early engagement, support to get in, support to succeed and support to progress, all working towards a whole student lifecycle approach. Already in progress is a new cross-University working group, Edinburgh Annual Review Cares, who have revised the Corporate published Parenting Strategy. February saw the workshop for the WP strategy toolkit, launch of the Edinburgh city partnership which will take place in May 2019. There The Annual Review 2017/2018 is now service for care-experienced students: will also be open sessions for all staff available, highlighting the University’s the Hub for Success. wanting to implement the strategy in their achievements from the previous own area. The first of these will take place academic year. The publication is The Widening Participation team have on Friday 5 April at 12.30 at the King’s available both in print and online. also initiated a pilot of Your Ed, a schools’ Buildings. Details can be found on MyEd. Printed copies are available from partnership programme, while the Centre Communications and Marketing. The for Open Learning has seen its first 8 You can find more information about online Annual Review includes pictorial cohort of students progress through the guiding principles of the WP and video highlights. the new part-time access course for strategy and what is taking place arts, humanities and social sciences. around the University at edin.ac/ 8 www.ed.ac.uk/annual-review
Sam Sills; Chris Close; Paul Dodds To get involved, look out for the launch widening-participation-strategy
The University of Edinburgh staff magazine bulletin SPRING 2019 3 university update Improving exam experiences
e all know that exams can be a accurate exam timetables, and changes daunting time. Even more so if could be difficult to spot and understand. Wyou don’t have the comfort or Following developments to personalised confidence of knowing when and where timetables last year, the SEP team your exams are or, importantly, if there is joined forces with colleagues in Student a last-minute change to time or venue. Administration and Support to develop Student wellbeing during exam season is and launch a smart digital solution giving vital to allow our students to perform as our students quick and easy access to best they can. their exam timetables. From this summer, Work from the Service Excellence this service will extend to all student Programme (SEP) means our students will timetables, meaning up-to-date daily now have personalised exam timetables at schedules will be easy to find at the touch their fingertips on their Office 365 devices, of a button. This will ensure our students on campus, at home or on the move. are happy, feel supported and can focus their time and efforts on their studies. Our students told us that it was often complicated and time consuming finding 8 edin.ac/sep-news
Support for our technical staff Discounts for staff in University hotels
A £6.7 million investment into improving The University signed the Technician Commitment in 2017, joining 75 other higher Salisbury Green Hotel & Bistro and KM education institutions driving change for technicians in four areas: visibility, ensuring Central has created an unrivalled choice technicians are identifiable and their contribution visible; recognition, supporting of accommodation for staff, visitors professional registration and celebrating achievement; career development, working – including friends and families – and towards progression through provision of clear pathways; and sustainability, event organisers. As they are University- ensuring technical skills and expertise are retained and fully utilised. owned, and operated by Accommodation The University formally launched the Technician Commitment at McEwan Hall in Catering and Events’ commercial brand, December. More than 300 technicians heard Professor Peter Mathieson, Principal Edinburgh First, the surplus generated is and Vice-Chancellor, pledge his support for the initiative. The University’s action kept within the University. Plus, University plan for change, which received a very positive review from the Science Council in departments will have access to the self-assessment submission process, was also presented. preferential rates and will not pay the 20 per cent VAT cost. The launch increased awareness of the Technician Commitment, the Technician Support Steering Group and technicians’ website and encouraged a better Salisbury Green Hotel & Bistro, located understanding of the support available for learning and development. Attendees at Pollock Halls, offers 36 rooms in its surveyed rated the event highly and agreed there is a commitment to improvement traditional Mansion House and 72 in the and a brighter future. modern Masson House. KM Central offers 45 stylish rooms in the city centre and the The technicians’ network, TechNet, aims to build a visible, connected technician 35 Richmond Place Apartments offer a community. In February, more than 50 technicians attended a TechNet event at the self-catering option, for longer stays. Queen’s Medical Research Institute, and all technicians are encouraged to attend a central TechNet meeting at the School of Informatics on 20 March. To book, visit MyEd and use the promotion code B319. 8 www.ed.ac.uk/technicians
8 www.edinburghfirst.co.uk Parsons-Hewes; Paul Zanre Paul Dodds; Howard
4 bulletin SPRING 2019 The University of Edinburgh staff magazine university update
EU Settlement Scheme Celebrating he UK Government has confirmed The UK Government will waive the £65 Fairtrade the EU Settlement Scheme will be application fee when the scheme is fully Tfully open by 31 March. Although rolled out in March and refund those who fortnight the pilot scheme for University staff have taken part in the pilot. The University closed on 21 December, a new, wider will reimburse staff who applied during This year we hosted yet another pilot scheme began on 21 January. the pilot that ran 15 November to 21 successful Fairtrade Fortnight. From December, but will recover this payment EU citizens and their family members 25 February to 10 March the University once it is clear how and when the Home will be able to remain in the UK without took part in a range of events, Office intends to refund the fee. Due to securing their status until 31 December including a discussion on palm oil, the Government’s announcement about 2020. If you have five years continuous organised by the Social Responsibility waiving the fee, reimbursement will not be residence in the UK you are eligible for and Sustainability team in partnership available for the current pilot. settled status, which confirms you have with the University’s Global Academy permission to stay in the UK permanently These pilots are entirely voluntary. of Agriculture & Food Security. with no immigration restrictions. If you Although Fairtrade is a certification have less than five years continuous 8 You can find all the current information brand, the University also recognises residence you will be granted pre-settled on Brexit planning, including updated and stocks various accreditations status. This allows you to continue living FAQs and information on the of fair trade products, as long as all in the UK as if you were exercising free upcoming town hall sessions in April, actions and products are traded fairly. movement rights. at www.ed.ac.uk/news/eu There are several ways to get involved in the fair trade work undertaken at the University including making sure that office consumables are fair trade Ashworth building redevelopment or taking the University’s short online course about modern slavery. The University has had Fair Trade status for 15 years running, and recognises and supports the International Fair Trade Charter. The University of Edinburgh was also recently named Sustainability Institution of the Year in the UK, in recognition of our progressive and holistic approach to becoming more socially responsible and sustainable. 8 edin.ac/fair-trade
Estates increase their electric fleet
Since 2016 the Estates team have been replacing their current cars with electric vehicles. After receiving several grants from Edinburgh Council, 16 zero-emission vehicles have been purchased, making up 30 per cent of the University’s fleet. The redevelopment of the Ashworth building entrance at the King’s Buildings campus has been completed by the Estates team. The Estates team have also installed charging points across the University – The entrance is now fully accessible, with improved lighting that emphasises the new there are 20 in the Central Area, 10 at the work as a real feature of the King’s Buildings area. The Estates team worked hard to King’s Buildings and, thanks to funding ensure a cohesion with the existing building and its surroundings and, so far, feedback from the Energy Savings Trust, two on the new entrance has been positive. dual-outlet charge points at the
Paul Dodds; Howard Parsons-Hewes; Paul Zanre Paul Dodds; Howard The foyer has also been redesigned to match the existing period features of 1928. Bioquarter and four at Easter Bush.
The University of Edinburgh staff magazine bulletin SPRING 2019 5 research in focus
research A global network of in focus Christian-Muslim studies
op academics from the School of is expanding Christian-Muslim Studies at Divinity have applied for another an incredible rate. The community hopes Tresearch grant to expand their to continue to advance education in this current work in Christian-Muslim studies. field, promoting new thought, research Mona Siddiqui (pictured), Professor and public discourse. It also encourages of Islamic and Inter-religious Studies current and future religious leaders of and Assistant Principal Religion and both Christian and Muslim societies to Society, and Dr Joshua Ralston, lecturer explore each other’s traditions to promote in Muslim-Christian Relations, created understanding and empathy. the Global Network of Christian-Muslim The success of the project has already Studies after an award from the Henry seen Professor Siddiqui and Dr Ralston Luce Foundation in 2017. receive grants from the Issachar Fund The Network aims to bring together and the John Templeton Foundation. experts from around the globe to More recently they have applied for a enhance discussion and understanding second grant from the John Templeton around Islam and Christianity and the Foundation to found the Hikmah Institute. relationships between the two. Promoting This interdisciplinary centre will sit within interdisciplinary research and scholarship the School of Divinity and will explore not only between academics in the comparative philosophy and theology, western world, but also with scholars and rethinking a number of topics in a new religious leaders in the Middle-East, interdisciplinary setting. Sub-Saharan Africa and Southeast Asia 8 christianmuslim.div.ed.ac.uk
New exploration into how memories DNA can predict are formed potential lifespan
Often there is an assumption in scientific Scientists from the Usher Institute research that memory works the same have analysed how different genes can way for everyone, but a new study led combine to determine a person’s lifespan. by Professor Robert Logie and other Researchers produced a scoring system psychologists from the School that showed people in the top 10 per of Philosophy, Psychology & Language cent may live up to five years longer than Sciences examines the whole range those in the lowest 10 per cent. of mental processes that are linked to memory. Up to 12 areas of the human genome were found to influence the length of Research showed that the combination life, five of which had not been identified of ways people use mental tools can before. The genes that affected a differ hugely from person to person, even lifespan the most were found at sites though all people are able to use the that have been linked to fatal illnesses. same tools. Genes associated with smoking-related it with a similar-sounding word they Psychologists at Edinburgh reviewed conditions and heart diseases were already know, and some might visualise more than 100 previous research studies detected, but those linked to other the word itself. with adults that investigated the different cancers, that aren’t related to smoking, ways in which people remember words, Studying how a person can create a were not found in this study. Scientists letters, numbers and pictures. For mental representation of something in their can now infer that these cancers example, when learning a new language, own individual way shows the benefits are possibly a result of rarer genetic some people will remember the words by from this more detailed exploration of differences or of external environmental or
simply repeating it, some might associate memory when performing tasks. social factors. kmlmtz66/Getty Images; Eoin Carey Suzanne Heffron;
6 bulletin SPRING 2019 The University of Edinburgh staff magazine teaching in focus
teaching Harnessing in focus interdisciplinarity ast September saw the hugely What stands out in the student feedback successful Our Changing World from the course is the use of Facilitated Lcourse run for its ninth year. Group Discussion (FGD) sessions that Though it’s managed by the Deanery take place instead of normal seminars. of Biomedical Sciences, the course is Instead of being led by staff, students Student open to all undergraduates. The lectures take the lead in FGDs, prompting are also open to the general public to exploration of the themes beyond what researchers encourage a diverse audience. In fact, was covered in the lecture. The range the course benefits from attracting of students involved in the discussions aid community students from all subjects. The more promotes independent thought and mixed the students, the more interesting criticism, forcing students outside the Dr Helen Szoor-McElhinney the approaches to the topics covered comfort of their own study areas. has developed Our Health, the each week. The interdisciplinary nature of FGDs University’s first interdisciplinary This year the theme for the programme benefits all the students that choose to health and wellbeing science shop. was ‘identity’, with lectures covering take this course, encouraging them to This is a small project that will topics such as gender fluidity, the ‘self’ consider the biases of their opinions, and carry out scientific research in the and the immune system, and human making their arguments more considerate community on behalf of local society relationship with nature. and informed. and is usually free of charge. Our Health brings together undergraduate and postgraduate students from a range of Crafting an introductory course disciplines to undertake research in collaboration with community groups. A recent project was with the Cheyne Gang Choir, who all live with the lung condition Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. The research question, set by the choir themselves, examined whether their breathing techniques were changing their lung physiology and improving their symptoms. The students were supported in The students receive their certificates from Dr Sarah Ivory (centre) in the Poster Award Ceremony their research through a network of that concludes the course. academics, doctors and healthcare Recognising that the introductory, compulsory course for first year business students practitioners, which allowed them needed improvement, Dr Sarah Ivory, lecturer in the Business School, was brought in to learn and grow throughout the to redesign the entire syllabus. After a hugely successful first year, the second cohort of project. Dr Szoor-McElhinney said: students started the new course, Global Challenges for Business last September. “Throughout my evaluation of the projects I was keen to capture the The focus of this course is simple; teaching students how to think. The skills reiterated community partners’ perspectives throughout are; quality of argument, strength of evidence and clarity of presentation. and experiences around the work. The topics covered include a range of interdisciplinary themes that are relevant to They told me that they had started to business including climate change, digital disruption, global inequality, identity, and the think of themselves as researchers future of ‘work’. This broader context to the world of business may not lend itself to because they had been fully in-depth focus, but the aim is to allow students to see how other disciplines play a part welcomed into the research process in their study of business, and encourage them to think and discuss (not simply learn by the student teams.” and repeat), to create an informed argument. This is the foundation of their academic, and then professional, journey. The project has been a huge success with both students and the wider community, proving the value of both interdisciplinary learning and 8 Stories based on posts from the Teaching Matters Blog. To read more, visit community-based research. www.teaching-matters-blog.ed.ac.uk Suzanne Heffron; kmlmtz66/Getty Images; Eoin Carey Suzanne Heffron;
The University of Edinburgh staff magazine bulletin SPRING 2019 7 cover story
Fair field and no favour
This year’s International Women’s Day ties in with a significant University anniversary. bulletin explores the impact of the Edinburgh Seven, who forced open the gates to female higher education.
ach year, International Women's Day is a chance to reflect on the past, and look forward to the future, celebrating the achievements of women Ethroughout the ages, no matter where they come from. The theme this year is #BalanceforBetter. It encourages a gender balance across our cultures; in business, in government, in media coverage, in employment, in pay and wherever else we see inequality. Collective action and shared responsibility are the cornerstones of this campaign. Celebrating balance What better way to recognise this idea of equilibrium than a discussion of diversity. Our International Women's Day Lecture welcomed Professor Dame Anne Glover, a prominent molecular biologist. In 2006, she became the First Chief Scientific Advisor for Scotland, moving to become the First Chief Scientific Advisor to the President of the European Commission in 2012. She is currently the President of the Royal Society of Edinburgh and she is also an alumna of the University, with a BSc in Biochemistry. Professor Dame Anne Glover Her enlightening talk centred around the title 'Diversity – makes life better for everyone'. Edinburgh University Library Lothian Health Services Archive,
8 bulletin SPRING 2019 The University of Edinburgh staff magazine cover story
Looking back all the traffic for an hour. We walked up to We still have a job to do the gates, which remained open until we Today the University is proud to attract and it helps enormously to incredible women like Professor Dame came within a yard of them, when they Anne Glover and boasts a number of were slammed in our faces by a number see from the achievement leading female staff members across the of young men.” of the Edinburgh Seven, entire institution. Spiller clarifies: “Edinburgh became a that battles can be won. focal point for that mounting tension,” In fact, the University was the first to Professor Dame Anne Glover welcome women through its doors. eventually coming to a head in “a bitter legal battle that ultimately ruled against “Sophia Jex-Blake and her supporters the women graduating. The opportunities many women have always felt that it would be a Scottish today rely upon the foundation of effort, “As Isabel Thorne, one of the so-called university that was likely to open its doors perseverance and resilience built by these Edinburgh Seven, reflected later ‘much to women first and so it was, when the pioneering women... We still have a job courage was required for a medical University of Edinburgh sanctioned the to do and it helps enormously to see from man to declare himself a friend of the matriculation of women students on to the achievement of the Edinburgh Seven, movement’.” the medical degree programme 150 years that battles can be won.” ago, in 1869,” explains Jo Spiller, Head Pressing forward of Educational Design and Engagement Today the University has an exceptional (Sabbatical) and postgraduate MScR Although the University did not award Equality and Diversity team, that heads in the School of History, Classics & them a degree at that time, the Edinburgh multiple networks and committees Archaeology, who is currently researching Seven will all be awarded honorary dedicated to supporting staff and this period of the University’s history. degrees later this year. In the 1870s, the students alike. One focus is supporting Edinburgh Seven had to pursue their the Athena SWAN Charter, which looks Sophia Jex-Blake was one of seven studies elsewhere. Five of the women to promote gender balance across women who began the campaign for were eventually awarded their medical higher education and research. In 2018 female higher education. After her doctorates outside of the UK and the University retained its Institutional individual application to Edinburgh was Jex-Blake was the third women in Britain Silver Athena SWAN award. More and turned down – because the University registered with the General Medical more work is being done to promote was unable to accommodate just one Council. and encourage equality and diversity lone woman on this programme – Jex- across the University and to address the The Scotsman Spiller says that after the Edinburgh Seven Blake advertised in for changes that may still need to be made. others to join her in applying. Several were refused a degree, the campaign women responded and they sat the for female higher education “moved to “The drive for equality in education is still matriculation exam together. Mary London and women eventually won the ongoing and this anniversary year offers Anderson, Emily Bovell, Matilda Chaplin, right to access university in 1877, eight us an opportunity to celebrate some of Helen Evans, Edith Pechey, Isabel Thorne years after it began in Edinburgh.” the remarkable individuals, both men and women, who led the way 150 years ago. and Sophia Jex-Blake began their studies In 1889 an Act of Parliament was It is also an opportunity for us to reflect on in 1869 to become physicians and later eventually passed that sanctioned how far we have come as an institution became known as the Edinburgh Seven. degrees for women. since then and how much more we can “This was a landmark moment, as it In 1893 the first women were able to still do to ensure we provide the ‘fair field meant that for the first time women graduate from the University of Edinburgh and no favour’ that Sophia Jex-Blake could pursue a professional university and the following year a group of women requested in 1869,” comments Spiller. education, one that would to lead to graduated from the Medicine programme. qualification and legitimate entry into It’s been 150 years since the Edinburgh the medical profession. It put the rights Each woman from the Edinburgh Seven had the gateway to education and of women to study at university and Seven paved the way for future female equality slammed in their faces by others. to pursue professional careers on the graduates to succeed in achieving a Now the University holds the gates of national agenda and opinions on all sides degree. Their legacy encouraged the opportunity, community and knowledge of the debate were fiercely held and likes of Agnes Yewande Savage, the open to all. passionately argued,” says Spiller. first woman of West African heritage to train and qualify in orthodox medicine, Campaigning for change and Elsie Inglis, founder of the Scottish Unfortunately, these women still faced Women’s Suffrage Federation and some opposition and on one instance, Scottish Women’s Hospitals, who was they were the cause of a riot. Jex-Blake taught by Jex-Blake in her School of described what happened: “On the Medicine for Women. afternoon of Friday 18 November 1870, we walked to the Surgeon’s Hall, where Opening the gates the anatomy examination was to be held. Professor Dame Anne Glover says that As soon as we reached the Surgeon’s these women opened the way for future Hall we saw a dense mob filling up the generations: “The story of the Edinburgh A 1906 group of female medicine graduates. Lothian Health Services Archive, Edinburgh University Library Lothian Health Services Archive, road… The crowd was sufficient to stop Seven is both tragic and inspirational.
The University of Edinburgh staff magazine bulletin SPRING 2019 9 photo story
1 An Edinburgh perspective
bulletin showcases the winners of the 2018 Edinburgh Global student photography competition.
elebrating the competition’s tenth year, 2 Edinburgh Global enjoyed a whole host Cof entries in 2018. All current international students and any students who have had a ‘Go Abroad’ experience are eligible to enter along with online learners from outside the UK. An Edinburgh Perspective was the theme for this year’s competition, and the winning images were chosen by an independent panel of judges.
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10 bulletin SPRING 2019 The University of Edinburgh staff magazine photo story
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8 1. First Prize: the Royal Scots Greys Memorial at the Edinburgh International Festival fireworks by Siyan Liu from China. 2. Second Prize: street performers in the Royal Mile by Sree Hari P.D. from India. 3. Principal’s Choice Prize: bubbles outside the National Gallery by Eleni Zarkada from Greece. 4. People’s Choice Prize: Edinburgh Castle from Princes Street Gardens by Tomas Sarmiento Armendariz from Mexico. 5. Category Prize, Stories and Experiences: snow-covered Edinburgh by Poonnapa Poonyalikhit from Thailand. 6. Category Prize, City and Surroundings: Edinburgh’s spring flower blossom by Giada Barzaghi from Italy. 7. Category Prize, People and Community: a performer from the Edinburgh Fringe Festival by Li Yang from China. 8. Category Prize, Abroad: the Canadian Rocky Mountains by Thomas Dalhuisen from The Netherlands.
The University of Edinburgh staff magazine bulletin SPRING 2019 11 people news
people Philip Leverhulme Prize for news GeoSciences
Chancellor’s Awards
Five staff members have been honoured with Chancellor’s Awards in recognition of their outstanding teaching, research excellence and exceptional impact, globally or locally.
Professor Peter Higgins, Chair of Outdoor and Environmental Education in Moray House School of Education and Sport, was presented with the Teaching Award in recognition of his dedication to developing outstanding learning experiences for students r Stephen Brusatte, Reader in Vertebrate Palaeontology in the School of across multiple programmes. GeoSciences, has been awarded a Philip Leverhulme Prize for Earth Sciences. Professor David Reay, Chair in DThe awards recognise outstanding researchers whose work has attracted Carbon Management and Education in international recognition and whose future career is exceptionally promising. the School of GeoSciences, was also Dr Brusatte is an expert in the anatomy, genealogy, and evolution of fossil vertebrates. presented with the Teaching Award in He plans to use the £100,000 prize to hire a fossil conservator and lab specialist, recognition of his first-rate collection alongside purchasing equipment, in order to build a new vertebrate palaeontology of climate change and environmental laboratory. programmes. “It's a great honour to win this prize, but what I'm most happy about is that I can use the Richard Morris, Professor of funding to build a world-class fossil conservation laboratory, support student research, Neuroscience in the Centre for and fund fieldwork on the Isle of Skye and elsewhere in Scotland,” said Dr Brusatte. Discovery Brain Sciences, part of Edinburgh Medical School, received the Research Excellence Award Female researchers celebrated with due to his phenomenal work in the neurobiology of learning and memory. Suffrage Science Award
Dr Beth Biller, Chancellor’s Fellow Two female scientists from the School of the MRC London Institute of Medical at the Institute for Astronomy in the of Informatics have been awarded Sciences, created the Suffrage Science School of Physics & Astronomy, Suffrage Honours in recognition of Scheme in 2011. The awards seek to received the Rising Star Award for their achievements in mathematics and recognise female scientists that are an her research into the direct imaging computing. Professor Jane Hillston, inspiration, encouraging other women to of exoplanets, a rapidly expanding field. Head of the School of Informatics, and train in these areas. Professor Ursula Martin, from the School’s Professor David FitzPatrick, Joint The ceremony was held at the British Centre for Intelligent Systems and their Section Head of Disease Mechanisms Library in London, where the previous Applications, are among 11 UK scientists in the Human Genetics Unit of the holders passed on their awards to in maths and computer science who MRC Institute of Genetics & Molecular their chosen scientist. The awards received the awards. Medicine, part of Edinburgh Medical themselves are hand-crafted jewellery School, was presented with the Of all the people in the UK working in pieces, designed by students at Central Impact Award in recognition of his core science, engineering, technology St Martins and inspired by research and research into families who have a child and mathematics, only 23 per cent are the Suffrage movement. The idea is that affected by severe developmental women. To combat this and help inspire these heirlooms can be passed down disorders. future generations of female scientists, from scientist to scientist as the awards
Professor Dame Amanda Fisher, Director continue. Xie Yujia Evelyn Telfer; Professor Shasta Marrero;
12 bulletin SPRING 2019 The University of Edinburgh staff magazine people news
Ground-breaking fertility Staff recognised in New Year’s research recognised Honours
rofessor Evelyn Telfer, from the The Queen’s 2019 New Year’s Honours School of Biological Sciences, list recognised four staff members, Phas been named as one of Porter representing all three Colleges. magazine’s Incredible Women of 2018 alongside other inspirational women such Anna Meredith, Professor of as Michelle Obama. Other nominees Zoological and Conservation Medicine, included snowboarding Olympian, Chloe Head of Melbourne Veterinary School Kim and activist survivor of the Marjory and Personal Chair at the Royal (Dick) Stoneman Douglas shooting, Emma School of Veterinary Studies, has Gonzalez. been appointed OBE for services to animal welfare. The award recognises Professors Telfer’s work on fertility and egg cells. Thanks to Jonathan Seckl, Professor of her research, these cells can be removed Molecular Medicine and Vice-Principal from ovary tissue at their earliest stages for Planning, Resources and Research of development, to be grown in the lab Policy, has been appointed OBE for until they can be fertilised. This allows services to endocrinology. young girls diagnosed with cancer to Ian Deary, Professor of Differential have their eggs removed before the Psychology and Director of the Centre potentially harmful chemotherapy, and for Cognitive Ageing and Cognitive have them matured in the lab, ready to Epidemiology in the School of be fertilised at a later date. There’s also is recognition of the whole team in Philosophy, Psychology & Language hope that this study could help research Edinburgh – Dr Marie McLaughlin, Sciences, has been appointed OBE into infertility treatments and regenerative Professor Richard Anderson and for services to the social sciences. medicine due to the findings on how Professor Hamish Wallace – our human eggs develop. Fiona Alderson, Technical Services collaborator in New York, Professor David Manager based at the School of Professor Telfer said: “I am deeply Albertini, and all the women who have Engineering, has been awarded a honoured to be named in this list. It supported this research.” British Empire Medal for services to engineering and education. Top prize for young academic
This year the Common Market Law Assistant Principal Review journal has awarded their 2018 Prize for Young Academics to Dr Leandro joins commission Mancano, Lecturer in EU Law in the Melissa Highton, Law School. The award is open to any Assistant Principal academics under 30 or within three years Online Learning and of completion of their PhD. This highly Director of Learning, prestigious journal is ranked as number Teaching and Web one for European Law and number two Services, has been for International Law. appointed to a new Dr Mancano’s paper, entitled ‘Storming commission addressing the Bastille: Detention Conditions, challenges facing adult education. the Right to Liberty and the Case for The Centenary Commission will assess Approximation in EU Law’, will be the impact of globalisation and how published in a future issue of the journal. adaptations can address issues around “I am very pleased that an important shifting demographics and aging journal like Common Market Law Review in the piece have matured over years of population. She is Scotland’s sole has rewarded my research with this prize. previous research. I would like to thank representative on the Commission, which The article addresses the role EU law can all the people that have supported me was set up by the Co-operative College, play in tackling the issue of poor detention – professionally and personally – and the Raymond Williams Foundation, the conditions, and aims to contribute to the helped me reach this achievement,” said Workers Educational Association, and the
Shasta Marrero; Professor Evelyn Telfer; Yujia Xie Yujia Evelyn Telfer; Professor Shasta Marrero; debate on the topic. The ideas presented Dr Mancano. Universities of Nottingham and Oxford.
The University of Edinburgh staff magazine bulletin SPRING 2019 13 health & wellbeing
health & Celebrating 50 years at wellbeing Firbush
ince opening its doors on 7 October 1976, the University’s Sresidential Outdoor Centre at Firbush has offered students, staff, and families the opportunity to escape the stresses of everyday life, meet new people, try new activities and create memories that will last a lifetime. Set in a spectacular location, just three miles from the village of Killin in Perthshire, on the south shore of Loch Tay, Firbush continues to offer an extensive programme of water sport and mountain activities throughout the year as well as spaces year round for reading parties, team building, management training courses and conferences. During the centre’s 50th year, the Sport So what better way to commemorate 50 “The new friendship circle is a wonderful & Exercise team have been gathering wonderful years than with the addition of new addition to Firbush – it’s a great and celebrating the experiences and a new space for visitors to socialise, place to gaze up at the stars and enjoy memories of visitors and guests. From enjoy the stunning scenery and share the sound of the water in the company helping to change the lives of children with a mutual appreciation of their Firbush of new friends,” said June Underwood diabetes to assisting Cupid by introducing experience. A new ‘Friendship Circle’, Coordinator of the Firbush Yoga & Les and Elaine, a couple who have now generously supported by the JD Pollock Mindfulness Retreat. been happily married for more than 24 Trust, has recently been completed by the years, the memories shared told stories of Estates team, and is already proving a hit 8 www.ed.ac.uk/sport-exercise/ the lifelong bonds formed at Firbush. with guests. outdoor-centre
Learning to love running again
o many, the enjoying it much more than I thought I running again and hope others can do the concept of a ‘fun would!” says Laura. same with Learn to Run.” run’ sounds a bit T By the end of the course the aim is Jocelyn Moar, Support for Physical Activity like an oxymoron. Not (SPA) Programme Officer, runs the group for Student Experience that participants will be able to run and has been pleased to see students Administrator and PA continuously for 15 minutes. Sessions are like Laura benefitting from the sessions. Laura Houghton, though. structured with exercises and challenges that are fun but also help improve stamina. “Laura has come on in leaps and bounds, Laura has rediscovered her love of The workshop usually runs at lunchtimes and it has been wonderful to watch her running thanks to Sport & Exercise’s in the Central Area and Easter Bush, with progress, and her love of running develop. Learn to Run programme. Developed by plans to expand to more in the future. Running can be a sociable or solitary the University’s Active Lives team, the pursuit, which is part of its beauty. Learn free, 10-week walk/jog programme for “I felt like I was using my lunch hour to Run sessions allow people to gradually staff and students is aimed at beginners productively” says Laura. “You can go at build up their jogging stamina in a and those returning to running. your own pace, but being outside and supportive group environment, which can physically active with a group of people is make a big difference in helping people Laura was looking for a new way to stay good for your body and mind.” find their stride,” she said. healthy and keep in shape. “After training and completing a half marathon 10 years Laura has now ‘graduated’ to the 8 Inspired? Register your interest ago, I fell out of love with it. However, improver running group and runs about in Learn to Run at
when I joined Learn to Run, I fell into three times a week: “I’m really enjoying [email protected] Thomas Crooks
14 bulletin SPRING 2019 The University of Edinburgh staff magazine health & wellbeing Don’t cross the line
t the end of 2018, a new campaign was launched to raise Aawareness of the University’s Dignity and Respect policy and to ensure staff and student wellbeing. bulletin caught up with Denise Boyle, HR Partner Equality, Diversity & Inclusion, and Dr Caroline Wallace, Senior Partner Equality, Diversity & Inclusion, to find out more.
What is the Don’t Cross the Line campaign? Don’t Cross the Line is a campaign to help us tackle bullying and harassment in the University. We’ve used posters, digital images, social media and other online content to raise awareness of what bullying looks like, how the University Edinburgh web hub to house the Dignity Dignity and Respect Advisors, who can views this behaviour, and how to seek and Respect policy alongside all related give advice and discuss options with help. information and relevant policies. We staff, including those who have been What are the key messages? encourage staff to visit the site, and accused of bullying and harassment. We we are always happy to receive any have developed guidance for staff and We want to make it clear that the suggestions for improvement. their managers in raising and addressing University has a zero-tolerance stance concerns. All guidance can be found on on bullying and harassment and all What’s the most important thing to the Respect at Edinburgh webpages. complaints are taken seriously. We also take away from the campaign? want to emphasise that it is everyone’s As well as raising general awareness, How can staff get involved now the collective responsibility to challenge we hope that the campaign images first phase of the campaign is over? unacceptable behaviour, and to treat encourage everyone to consider the We are asking all staff to support the others with dignity and respect. And impact of their words and actions on campaign further by volunteering to finally, the campaign highlights the others. What might seem harmless to you be Respect Champions in their teams. support and guidance available to anyone can feel very different to someone else. Join us in talking about bullying and who needs it. The University would like all staff to be at harassment, share your experiences and their best at work, and this can’t happen help us to break the taboo. Role-model How did the plan for this campaign if staff feel belittled or ridiculed. respectful behaviour and take up all come about? related training opportunities. Be familiar In 2016/17 we refreshed the Dignity Is there training available to allow staff with the Dignity and Respect policy, and Respect policy and improved the to support the campaign and wider guidance and support, and signpost support and guidance available to staff. policy? these to colleagues. And finally, we ask During this process it became clear that Yes, we have developed a workshop staff to challenge problematic behaviour the awareness and understanding of the called Where do you Draw the Line? at the earliest opportunity. Dignity and Respect policy was patchy, specifically to support this campaign. to say the least! We tried to improve There are also a number of other relevant What happens next? this using the standard communication training packages available as e-Learning The campaign is part of wider work methods but we soon realised that a modules and staff can access these from we are doing to tackle bullying and campaign was needed. It’s been a long the Respect at Edinburgh webpages. harassment. We are working now to journey but we are overwhelmed by the improve the process for the reporting and How do we find out more about how to positive feedback we’ve received so far. handling of complaints about bullying and raise concerns? harassment, and to enhance the support How can we find out more about the The Dignity and Respect policy sets out available to staff and students. Dignity and Respect policy? the options available to staff to raise We have created a new Respect at concerns. We also have a network of 8 edin.ac/respect Thomas Crooks
The University of Edinburgh staff magazine bulletin SPRING 2019 15 feature
What do you like to do outside of working hours? bulletin caught up with three staff members who have taken their hobbies to the next level.
William Mackaness, Senior Lecturer in the School of GeoSciences, owns and flies a vintage de Havilland Tiger Moth aeroplane. “In 2017 I was approached by the “Our re-enactment involved flying above BBC to participate in making a three- the Antonine Wall and along the Gask part documentary that would explore System, which is a connected series of Scotland’s changing landscapes and logistical forts and camps whose remains archaeology through aerial photography. are still visible today, stretching north from Entitled Scotland from the Sky, the Stirling and then east to Perth and beyond. project was in close collaboration with Historic Environment Scotland. “On the first day of the shoot, we began with filming in the hangar at Perth circled around, above and behind the “My wife, Nicola, and I own and fly a together with short pieces to camera. Tiger Moth. By the time we reached Tiger Moth (G-BWVT) which has been For the aerial shots, the producer and Cumbernauld airport an hour and half lovingly restored over many years by camera crew flew in a helicopter with a later, the sun was setting and I was glad Nicola’s father, Robin Jewitt. A Tiger Moth huge gimballed camera mounted beneath to feel the touch of the wheels on the is an open cockpit biplane designed by it. We chose a clear summer evening so runway – at which point the director Geoffrey de Havilland in the late 1930s that the sun’s rays would pick out the asked if there was any chance of me in response to the RAF’s requirement rolling hills and fine features of Scotland’s flying the circuit again in order to capture for a basic trainer. The aircraft is based majestic landscape. the landing from a different angle! at Scone airfield near Perth. The BBC wanted to demonstrate the effectiveness “Once in the air, the challenge was “Such was the success of the series of aerial archaeology and recreate the in following the instructions from the and the book, of the same name, that a exploits of OGS ‘Osbert’ Crawford. Later helicopter, whilst flying in formation such second series was commissioned and the to become the Ordnance Survey’s first that the Tiger Moth and the archaeology Tiger Moth flew again – this time along Archaeological Officer, in 1939 he flew simultaneously fell into the camera’s sections of Dere Street, a Roman road across Scotland in a de Havilland plane view. The filming often required a retake stretching from York to Edinburgh. The in an attempt to systematically record or two, gently circling different parts second series of Scotland from the Sky
Scotland’s Roman archaeology. of the landscape whilst the helicopter will air in late April.” Kathryn Murphy; Douglas Vernimmen
16 bulletin SPRING 2019 The University of Edinburgh staff magazine feature
Douglas Vernimmen, Lecturer in Molecular Biology at the Roslin Institute, is an award-winning portrait photographer. “This may be a quantitative trait, “Although wildlife photographers require geneticists will understand what I mean, a lot of patience, portraiture has the but it seems that artistic skills have been advantage to connect with people. Back transmitted through generations in my in the day, I was practising with friends, family. My Grandfather was a sculptor, but now most people I approach are and my Mum began painting when she happy to be part of my projects. Although was young. some people are busy, they do take time with me, and we also enjoy a conversation. “As part of my PhD I was able to come to London, coincidently two weeks after “After the substantial photography the death of my Dad. It gave me the work I did in Oxford, I asked the former opportunity to take some fresh air, and Principal, Sir Tim O’Shea, to have his to explore not just London, but the rest portrait taken, just before his retirement. Doug winning Best Trailer award at of the UK too. My camera was a way to Then, feeling guilty that I never had Festigious film festival in LA. witness and immortalise those moments. the chance to photograph the current Vice-Chancellor of Oxford, Professor “I take photographs as a way to get “I chose to come back to the UK for Louise Richardson, also former Principal out of my narrow academic bubble. my postdoc. During my nine years at of St Andrews, I came back to Oxford However, you can see that the science Oxford I was involved in a very dynamic to take her portrait. The photo was has fed my photography and vice versa: photography club. I had escalating quite quick and straightforward, but as a scientist, I am now taking official success by winning awards at many the relaxed conversation we had during photographs of a variety of events for the international photography competitions, and afterwards is always an experience: Genetics Society. It’s a hobby that requires over 200 to date. I also had the it’s good to know people when they time to produce thorough work but it’s opportunity to meet and photograph Her are completely natural. Louise was just rewarding when you win an award.” Majesty The Queen and David Cameron, another normal person, leaving her
Kathryn Murphy; Douglas Vernimmen on separate occasions. academic title in the cupboard. 8 douglasvernimmen.com
The University of Edinburgh staff magazine bulletin SPRING 2019 17 feature
Aoife Keenan, Widening lot more in between. My second year on accessible and inclusive, so more people Participation Officer (Student the team, we took home the silver medal can be part of our community. in the inaugural British Championships. Lifecycle) in Student “I’ve been lucky that my work team has We have been ranked as high as 47th in been really supportive of my journey with Recruitment and Admissions, the world. competes in roller derby. roller derby, from pretending not to notice “Playing roller derby is a huge my new bruises to coming along to cheer commitment. As well as the training at some of my games! I haven’t managed “When a friend first told me about this sessions, roller derby leagues are run by to persuade any of them to take it up yet, sport called roller derby, which involved the members for the members; we sort but we do welcome new people all the not only roller skating but hitting people everything ourselves through committees. time, whether they want to skate, officiate, while on roller skates, my response was We have 120 members with three or volunteer in a different capacity.” pretty clear: “I’m never doing that.” competitive travel teams, which generates 8 auldreekierollerderby.com/about/ “But somehow, at some point, I found a lot of work. what-is-roller-derby myself strapping on some cheap skates “This can be hard to juggle with a full-time and nervously wobbling my way round a job, study, and life in general! But it gives sports hall, wondering what on earth I’d back a lot. Roller derby has helped me got myself into. It was scary, and difficult, get physically fitter and stronger. I’ve had but I kept going back, I eventually stopped the chance to learn new skills – I’ve wobbling, and seven years on I can’t been on the board of directors, imagine life without this amazing sport. volunteered on the finance committee, “I started out on Auld Reekie Roller helped with digital communications, Derby’s newbie programme. I had no idea organised events, and I’ve been a how to skate, what the rules were, or coach for the last five years. I was also a what was going on most of the time. Less founding member of our Equalities Team, than two years later I was rostered on to which works to ensure we’re creating Auld Reekie’s All Star travel team, which and maintaining a safe and inclusive has taken me to Berlin, Helsinki, sunny environment. At Auld Reekie we’re proud
Newport, Portland Oregon (twice!) and a to be working to make this sport more Chris Belous; Siobhan Redmond; Paul Dodds
18 bulletin SPRING 2019 The University of Edinburgh staff magazine lunch mates lunch mates
Caroline Delahoyde, Technical Support Officer in the wet chemistry labs, met Ian Sharp, Head of Marketing and Engagement for Edinburgh Innovations at Element Café in Murchison the University’s expertise and capabilities that it is possible and we have already House at the King’s Buildings and attracting new business into the arranged a follow up to see how we can to discuss literature, the University. He has a team of people progress the opportunity. outdoors and collaborations. who work with organisations to develop academic and industry collaborations. What’s the best thing about your lunch mate’s role? What were your expectations before IS: Caroline is responsible for coordinating CD: Ian said the best thing about his role meeting your lunch mate? the provision of specialised laboratory was the people that he works with. He CD: I was anticipating a nice lunch and a support for teaching and research activities also enjoys helping academics connect pleasant chat with a University colleague. in relevant wet chemistry environments. with people in industry. I was interested to find out what Ian’s role She supervises a team of technicians, involved. managing workloads, ensuring specialised IS: Caroline enjoys managing her team, coaching and mentoring them IS: I was expecting to find out a little bit skills and knowledge are available when to allow development, personally and about Caroline and her role in engineering required and making sure they have professionally. She really likes working and I was anticipating an interesting adequate training and resources to with students too. discussion. deliver an efficient and effective service to the School. She is also responsible How does your lunch mate commute What did you talk about? for developing new analytical methods into work? CD: We talked about our commute into to support research work and training CD: Ian drives from Fife every day, a work, about fly fishing and about how students on relevant instrumentation. we both love literature and what we are round trip of 60 miles. currently reading. Are there any synergies between your IS: Caroline is more local to the University roles? IS: We chatted a bit about our than me. In the winter she drives, but will CD: We both offer support and guide backgrounds and hobbies, and found cycle or walk when the weather improves. other stakeholders, such as students, out we’ve both been involved in analytical staff and industry, through our particular What’s your lunch mate’s favourite chemistry. roles and services, although in different lunch place? Can you tell us a little about your lunch contexts. CD: We both enjoy Element Café and Brück Street Kitchen, both at the King’s mate’s role? IS: Yes, loads! For example, we both Buildings. CD: Ian works for Edinburgh offer important services to the academic Innovations (EI), which is the University’s community. We also both manage teams IS: On campus, as we’re both based at commercialisation organisation. It works that underpin the services we can offer the King’s Buildings, its Brücks Street with academic colleagues to establish and are very client focused. Kitchen and Element Café. Outside of and support industry relationships with work, we both had a long list of venues! the University and attract more funding. Can you think of how you might work EI is also responsible for supporting together in future? Did you find you had any hobbies or student enterprise (through training and CD: We have a lot of analytical out-of-work ventures in common? supporting start-up activity), working instrumentation in the labs. Ian wondered CD: Ian enjoys fly fishing, and he with academic colleagues to establish if there was the potential to do analyses occasionally catches something! We have spin out companies, and supporting for external companies. I think this a love of books in common and enjoy a academic consultancy with industry. Ian is certainly something we would be mixed reading list, anything from Russian is specifically responsible for marketing interested in. classic literature through to short stories IS: The chemistry facilities have a lot of involving personal experiences. 8 If you’d like to take part in lunch analytical instrumentation available, and IS: Caroline loves being active outdoors, mates, please email your details to I asked if Caroline were in a position to cycling, walking, etc. She is a keen [email protected] work with external companies in making hillwalker and can often be found, teeth
Chris Belous; Siobhan Redmond; Paul Dodds use of these instruments. She replied chattering, on the summit of a Munro.
The University of Edinburgh staff magazine bulletin SPRING 2019 19 competition spot the Win two vouchers difference for Filmhouse, Edinburgh
pot the difference and win two vouchers to be exchanged for film Stickets of your choice (excluding film showings as part of the Edinburgh International Film Festival) at Filmhouse, Edinburgh. Pictured below is the new Quad Café in the Law School, which is open to all staff and students. For your chance to win, circle the five differences between the two images and send your entry to us by Friday 5 April. You can post your entry to bulletin Competition, Communications and Filmhouse can be found at 88 Lothian Road, EH3 9BZ and filmhousecinema.com Marketing, 5 Forrest Hill, EH1 2QL or email it to [email protected]. The draw will be made and the winner notified Name on Monday 8 April. For full terms and conditions visit: edin.ac/bulletin- competition Position
Last issue’s first prize was won by Email Veronica Delaney, Cleaning Supervisor, and second prize was won by Jimmy Tel Sinclair, Servitor. Abbie Dobson; Sam Sills
bulletin SPRING 2019 The University of Edinburgh staff magazine