Education 2 VICE-CHANCELLOR'snews VIEW

NEWS 1 164 buzz

October/November 2016 Enriching Education 2 VICE-CHANCELLOR'SNEWS VIEW

Vice-Chancellor’s view

I do not, willingly, listen to The Archers. based as it happens in Abingdon in acquaintances some of the challenges My wife, however, is an avid Archers fan. Oxfordshire, committed to the abolition that we face, and, more importantly, the So far we have managed more than 36 of The Archers. I thought of joining, but, contributions we can and do make to years of happily married life despite as I value my marriage, decided against it. the country at large, the case for our this incompatibility. Many years ago For Birmingham, The Archers has universities, particularly in difficult times, I discovered that there was a society, something of an iconic quality. It is still would be all the more powerfully made. recorded just up the road from the University This matters when we are facing a Higher in the BBC studios in The Mailbox. Indeed, Education Bill that will see our universities not long after I arrived at the University, much more heavily and restrictively I was invited to go along to a special open regulated. It matters when the Government evening where you could meet some of is seeking to place requirements on the actors and watch them recording. It will universities to support a range of activities not surprise you to know that I did not go, for which we are not funded and which however Jan (my wife) did. As an improbable therefore will entail us redirecting funds from tale of everyday folk in the Midlands the our core activities to support new activities. fictional home ofThe Archers cannot be too It matters as universities are being far from the home of my PA, Linda Wilden. subjected to a Teaching Excellence Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sir David Eastwood As surely everybody in the nation knows, Framework which, as presently conceived, The Archers has been convulsed of late by could well fail to capture the nature and the trial of Helen Titchener. This has, I read quality of the experience that students have YOUR BUZZ in the papers, boosted the audience to over at a university such as this, and could, five million for the radio soap opera. Such perhaps unintentionally, lead to much more Next edition 7 December 2016 was the profile that celebrity jurors, or rather mechanistic and uninteresting approaches Copy deadline 11 November 2016 celebrity actors brought in to play jurors, to teaching and learning. were enticed to take part in an hour-long It matters as we continue to work with Contact us version of the show, including Nigel Havers government to ensure that the process [email protected] and Dame Eileen Atkins. of exiting the European Union does not Buzz online You may, by now, be wondering what place us in a position where it will be buzz.bham.ac.uk The Archers and indeed the trial of Helen difficult to attract and retain outstanding Follow us on Twitter Titchener have got to do with the University staff from within the European Union. It twitter.com/buzzunibham of Birmingham or universities more matters when we need to win the argument generally. Apparently, during the debate in with government that the recruitment of Find us on Facebook the jury room, the character played by Eileen European and international students is facebook.com/buzzunibham Atkins talked about a variety of issues, critical, not simply to the financial health including Brexit, the challenge it would pose of our universities, but to the intellectual for universities, and the loss of European environment which is at the heart of a research funding to our leading universities. global university.

Reading reports of this set me thinking. So it turns out that The Archers has a Edited by Matthew Collins Very often, now, advocacy for universities purpose after all! In reminding all of us who [email protected] falls almost exclusively on those of us in work within universities of our responsibility universities, and very often nearly exclusively to explain more widely the role, purpose, Your details on the leaders of our universities. This is and profound benefits that universities bring; Please let us know if you want extra a slender, and sometimes too obviously in ensuring that there is a broader and more copies of Buzz or if you think we need self-interested, basis for advocacy. nuanced understanding of the challenges to amend your distribution details. If the case for our universities is to be that our universities face as we compete in a made most effectively and most powerfully, global environment for talent and reputation; Views expressed in the magazine are it must be made more broadly. The drop-ins and in reminding our fellow citizens here in not necessarily those of the University such as the reference in The Archers are, Birmingham that having a great university at or a statement of University policy. in their way, hugely helpful. the heart of our city is an asset to be prized. All submissions may be subject to Similarly, our MPs often say that there In these and in so many other ways those editing. The Editor’s decision is final. is very little in their post bags around the small drop-ins and the asides that some of challenges facing the universities and the you would have heard in The Archers could need to advocate for universities. If all have a surprisingly powerful role to play. Front cover image: Professor of us working in universities could lobby Kathleen Armour, Pro-Vice- effectively, and if we could find ways Vice-Chancellor Chancellor for Education. of communicating to our friends and Professor Sir David Eastwood NEWS NEWS 3

Dates for the diary

Vice-Chancellor’s Forum Tuesday 18 October 2016, Internal Communications – 12.30–1.30pm, Barber Concert Hall, The Barber Institute of Fine Arts let us know what you think? Join the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sir David Eastwood, for his first staff address of the new academic year. This is a time of considerable Hi everyone, change in higher education and the I send out go to all staff, from those Vice-Chancellor will offer a personal All of the University's central internal discovering gravitational waves in insight into the politics and policy of communications are delivered by me, outer space, to the people on the ground the sector, covering topics such as Matt Collins (Internal Communications keeping our campus looking spectacular the new Teaching Excellence Officer). My role includes producing and – so there may be occasions when Framework, the review of the REF, editing this Buzz magazine, its monthly things aren’t directly relevant to you, and the creation of the Office for e-version Buzz Bitesize, helping to put but I hope on the whole you find that Students and UK Research and on events for staff such as the Vice- they are helpful or interesting. Innovation. Sir David will also provide Chancellor’s Forum and Birmingham Either way, I’m giving you the an update on the latest information in Professional Forum, sending out all-staff chance to tell me what you think. I am relation to the UK’s exit from the EU, emails and managing the busy internal carrying out a review of our central as well as his reflections on recent comms inbox. communications and will be emailing University highlights and priorities Essentially I’m here to share your you a short survey in the next couple for the coming year. news and success stories, to help of weeks to find out your views. This All staff are warmly invited, communicate important messages will help me to shape the central registration is not required and there to you, and to let you know what the communications you will receive in the will be the usual opportunity to ask University and its staff are up to. future and will hopefully ensure you are your questions. Sometimes in such a large organisation, happy with our internal communications. where we have one shared vision but a Birmingham Professional Forum hugely diverse range of people, roles, Thank you. Tuesday 1 November 2016, and priorities, it is difficult to ensure Matt Collins 11.00am–12noon I am catering for everyone. The things Internal Communications Officer Bramall Music Building Introduced by the Registrar and Secretary, Lee Sanders, the forum is a great opportunity to hear from colleagues on a wide range of topical subjects for both staff STONEWALL’S WORKPLACE and the University. EQUALITY INDEX 2017

After rising to 50th place in the The questionnaire will close on Character Matters… 2016 Stonewall Workplace Index, Friday 4 November 2016. the University is now preparing its with Rt.Hon.Baroness Estelle application for 2017. 'Last year over 1,000 people Morris, The Hon.Tristram Hunt As part of the application process completed Stonewall’s survey and MP, Rt. Hon.Nicky Morgan MP Stonewall seeks feedback directly their feedback has been invaluable. and Rt. Hon. Michael Gove MP from the staff of participating employers. I would encourage everyone to take All staff are invited to complete a short part in this short survey to help us Thursday, 24 November, questionnaire to give their views about understand where we are doing 6.15–7.15pm, Aston Webb LGBT equality in their workplace. well and where we can continue To complete the questionnaire, to improve as an LGBTQ inclusive Why Character Matters in Education all you need to do is to follow the link organisation.' Introduced by Professor Sir David below and make sure that you give Eastwood, Vice-Chancellor. the University of Birmingham’s unique Una Martin, DPVC for Equalities Panel discussion with Q&A session four digit code: 1672 chaired by Lord James O’Shaughnessy. www.stonewall.org.uk/get-involved/ Vote of thanks given by Sir Anthony get-involved-workplace/workplace- Seldon. Register: www.eventbrite. equality-index-2017 com/e/character-matters tickets-27026488956 4 NEWS FEATURE: UNIVERSITY STAFF SINGERS

OF BUAFTA SUC ARS CES YE S 10 G IN T A R B E L E C Password BUAFTA nominations Manager 017 2 A LT now open! 3–28 October Service: A D PER ARDUA A The IT Service Desk receives more BUAFTA (Birmingham University Nominations are open from 3–28 than 14,000 password reset requests Awards for Tremendous Achievement) October, and you can nominate any each year. is an annual scheme that celebrates Professional Services colleagues or That’s 14,000 users unable to work, exceptional individuals, teams, and teams for an award from this year’s waiting for the busy IT Service Desk to projects across the University’s ten categories. issue a one-time passcode to get them Birmingham Professional network. back up and running, costing time and Now entering its tenth year, we are For further information, and to make money in wasted productivity for each hoping that BUAFTAs 2017 will be your nominations for BUAFTAs 2017, forgotten password. the most successful yet in recognising visit www.intranet.birmingham.ac.uk/ colleagues’ achievements, and we BUAFTAS. You can register for our need your help to make this happen. Password Manager Service at: www.my.password.bham.ac.uk

n Save time! n Cut out the middle man! University of Birmingham n Available 24/7! You can also create a profile by adding welcomes our first a personal email address and mobile number to take control of your own apprentices on to campus password.

Learn more about password resets at In September the University of job with study for a recognised the IT Service Desk's Facebook page Birmingham welcomed 17 apprentices qualification. Each apprentice will have www.facebook.com/uobservicedesk/ to campus as part of our newly launched a manager and a mentor, enabling a posts/949250201867639 apprenticeship scheme. personal service to be delivered to every The apprenticeship scheme provides apprentice in the project. As well as the opportunities to gain high-quality skills formal course, they will be able to take and experience as the apprentices take part in networking and career Can you help us find their first steps into work. They have development activities on campus. the missing clocks? been recruited into a variety of roles Dzintars Romans, one of the 17 across the University’s professional apprentices who is embracing the In the late 1970s, Susie Aston was support services, from estates to opportunity to work and develop new commissioned to illustrate clock faces catering, IT to nursery care. skills at the University in IT, said: for several departments within the Stuart Richards, Director of Hospitality 'So far I am finding the apprenticeship University, like the one below. and Accommodation Services, said: exceeds all my expectations. I learned Her daughter, Deborah Smith, ‘We are delighted to be able to offer new and useful things on the very first would love to know if the University still an apprenticeship programme at the day in the workplace.’ has these clocks, or where they may University of Birmingham and create have gone. a number of opportunities for people Please get in touch with Kerrie from across the city. Our apprenticeship Holland ([email protected]) programme will support the University’s if you know of their whereabouts! civic responsibility to be a diverse and inclusive employer within the city and help to secure a strong future workforce on campus.' The new 12-month scheme, developed in conjunction with Babington Apprenticeships Ltd, allows apprentices to earn while they learn, combining practical training in a NEWS FEATURE: UNIVERSITY STAFF SINGERS 5 World-class choral team invites you to join University Staff Singers!

It might be easy to miss the hundreds of students, staff and members of the community who come together to perform in one of the 35-plus University Music ensembles, but fling open the doors to The Bramall each evening and you will hear music-making at a level unrivalled by any other UK university. Buzz readers might be surprised to learn just how prestigious Edward Elgar’s 1905 legacy has become.

Since the Bramall opened its doors in the University with the public, and the 2012, the level of activity in the Music eclectic mix on offer – ranging from the For more information on University Staff Department and for University Music has auditioned Birmingham University Singers Singers, please contact Gavin Allsop grown beyond recognition. The significant to the un-auditioned University Chorus – ([email protected] ) or visit appointment of Professor Simon Carrington, enables the University to engage with www.birmingham.ac.uk/ who has joined the University of Birmingham around 350 people per week, of all ages universitymusic from Yale to team up with Professor Simon and abilities, in and around the Halsey CBE for the 2016/17 academic local community. year, is testimony to the department’s Last month the ‘UoB Voices’ choir blossoming worldwide appeal. travelled to London to participate in the Professor Carrington has arrived to BBC Proms Youth Choir – a central BBC conduct Birmingham University Singers initiative that brings together young people and University Women’s Choir. He currently from across the UK to sing a major choral holds the position of Emeritus Professor of work at the BBC Proms. Preparations took Choral Conducting at Yale University, and place in the Bramall Music Building on prior to moving to the United States was campus, and the event culminated in a live a founding member of the internationally televised performance of Verdi’s Messa da acclaimed British vocal ensemble, ‘The Requiem at the Royal Albert Hall, which King’s Singers’, performing and recording gave students unparalleled access to with the group for 25 years. He joins perform at the very highest level. Professor Simon Halsey, Director of Choral Now you too can join in and be part of Activities at the University of Birmingham, this world-class setup. Open to all abilities who, among numerous positions is also – there is no prerequisite to be able to sing, Choral Director of the London Symphony enthusiasm outweighs singing ability – Orchestra and Chorus, Chorus Director ‘University Staff Singers’ will launch this of the City of Birmingham Symphony month at the Barber Institute of Fine Arts Orchestra Choruses, and Director of Concert Hall. It will be led by the select-few the BBC Proms Youth Choir. students studying the aforementioned With Visiting Lecturer, Julian Wilkins, Music MA: Choral Conducting, and its they run a distinguished choral conducting premise is built around having fun and programme in what could be described participation. Workplace wellbeing is as one of the world’s most sought-after something that the University takes very Masters courses; our MA in Choral seriously, and the health-related benefits, Conducting accepts a maximum of four both physical and mental, of singing are students each year! It is unquestionably the well established. So why not be part of world-leading course in the field, providing something special; grab a colleague and students with unrivalled opportunities head over to the Barber on Thursday 13 to work with choirs and internationally October, 12.30–1.30pm for the choir’s renowned tutors. Choirs are an essential first taster session. component of University Music, connecting 6 FEATURE: CAMPUS DEVELOPMENTS FEATURE: CAMPUS DEVELOPMENTS transforming

‘A staggering our 62km of campus shelving’

Our ‘transformational’ library opens

By the time Buzz lands on desks, our library will be a hive of activity, filled with students, researchers and staff relishing their new inspirational surroundings. The state-of-the-art facility provides a new home for the thousands of books and publications that are housed on a staggering 62 kilometres of shelving. This impressive building also features the latest in design and technology, with a new vanguard audio listening room and four video editing suite booths available to reserve. Desks have been placed near windows to maximise natural light and give spectacular views across the campus. The library has been tailor-made to suit modern users’ requirements and is designed to make more of the University’s extraordinary collections accessible to students and staff, with expert library staff on hand to help and advise on texts, support and resources. To mark the opening a special exhibition, which is also open to the public, showcases works from across the University’s collections that have pushed the boundaries of Western knowledge over the last 500 years. Organised by the University’s Library Services with the Cadbury Research Library, the exhibition, called 'Inspiring Knowledge: works of innovation and imagination that have shaped our world,' will be staged in the new Library Lounge. As explained by the Director of Library Services, Diane Job, ‘The exhibition is a crucible of ideas; an array of groundbreaking works that have changed the way people have thought, experienced and imagined the world, like the library itself.’ Visit the library’s website www.birmingham.ac.uk/libraries to find out more details about the building and viewing the exhibition.

New hotel receives planning permission

This summer the University received and meeting room capacity in the planning permission to build a new complex will offer increased 172-bedroom hotel and new conference flexibility, from intimate rooms that facility on Edgbaston Park Road. seat four up to larger rooms that To be known as Hornton Grange Hotel cater for up to 200. and Conference Centre, the new facility Work on this new complex is will encompass the current Conference due to start imminently with the first

Park, offering additional employment to guests set to be welcomed into the Artist's impression of Hornton Grange Hotel around 40 individuals and increasing the new facility from summer 2018. overall provision to 220 beds. Conference FEATURE: CAMPUS DEVELOPMENTS FEATURE: CAMPUS DEVELOPMENTS 7

Building work on 360 Sport & Fitness approaches the finishing line

Construction work at 360 Sport & The ten-metre climbing wall is in Fitness is approaching the home straight. position and towers above the Due to open in December 2016, you can reception area, and the Belgium- now really get a sense of the quality and created concrete colonnade that multi-use space that will be available to faces Bristol Road has been everyone looking to get fit and take installed and will provide a fully lit advantage of the fantastic facilities on outdoor seating area, running the offer in Birmingham’s newest sports club. length of the sports centre. Inside 360 Sport & Fitness, the city’s To find out more about 360 Sport only 50-metre pool is now filled with & Fitness visit the new website water, after taking four and a half days www.360birmingham.co.uk Inside 360 Sport & Fitness – the 50-metre pool and more than 2.1 million litres of water to reach its capacity. The six glass-back Become a 360 Sport & squash courts are also complete, along Fitness member today! with the multi sports arena that has a floor Details about staff membership with painted lines for badminton, netball, packages can be found on basketball and korfball, along with the intranet by visiting intranet. 871 seats. birmingham.ac.uk/hr/benefits/offers/ The five studios that will host more Sports-Centre.aspx or emailing than 200 fitness classes are having the Membership Sales Team at the finishing touches added before [email protected] the spaces can be used for activities ranging from indoor cycling to Pilates, weight training to circuits. Inside 360 Sport & Fitness – the well-appointed gym

The Green Heart starts beating The Alan Walters Building opens its doors

Work to create the Green Heart has begun following the Work is now complete on our brand new Postgraduate opening of the new library doors. Preparations have begun Teaching Centre, devoted to the teaching of postgraduate for demolition of the of the old library, with landscaping set to courses in the Business School, including MBAs. start on what is currently the north car park in summer 2017. The building has been called the Alan Walters Building Landscape Architects, Churchman Landscape Associates, after a noted economist whose widow gave a generous have been awarded the contract to design the open space, gift in his memory. having previously worked on projects such as the Greenwich The new £10 million building contains several distinctive National Maritime Museum in London. Lighting designers, features for students of the Business School’s postgraduate Speirs + Major Associates, who were involved with the programmes, including a Harvard-style lecture theatre. The London 2012 Olympic park, will be using the latest sustainable new facilities will provide a dedicated space for the Business features to bring the area alive. School’s postgraduate students, and includes communal Measuring 365m x 135m, the Green Heart will areas for studying and group work. provide space for students, staff and the local community to enjoy. Expected to be completed at by autumn 2018, the Green Heart will be used for performances, socialising, meeting and working. To keep up to date on the latest Green Heart developments, visit www.birmingham.ac.uk/ university/building/green-heart.aspx

Artist’s impression of the Green Heart

Artist’s impression of the Green Heart 8 FEATURE: EDUCATIONAL ENTERPRISE FEATURE: EDUCATIONAL ENTERPRISE Educational Enterprise

Actively working to identify new market opportunities and extend the global reach of the University through online learning, Educational Enterprise has been a champion of using innovative technology in engaging ways to enhance the learning experience for students on campus and around the world.

Under the leadership of Ian Myatt, Director of Educational Enterprise and Professor Glyn Watson, University Director of Alternative Modes of Delivery (AMD), Educational Enterprise is playing a key role in realising the University’s ambition to extend the reach beyond the Birmingham campus through the development of innovative online learning experiences. In leading the University’s pioneering collaboration with Wiley Global Education Services, Educational Enterprise has overseen the development of three wholly online courses. Launching a year ago, the Online MBA, Online MSc International Business and Online Masters of Public Administration (MPA) already have over 150 students studying in 45 countries and this is increasing with each intake. This success has provided a strong foundation Spotlight – Setting new standards in design and delivery for future expansion of the portfolio across an increasingly diverse range of disciplines. New opportunities for programme The Birmingham Business School’s set new standards in design and delivery. development at all levels, CPD opportunities Online MBA, wholly delivered online and Since launching in September 2015 and chances for online innovation are whose development was supported by the programme has attracted students continually being assessed and evaluated, the Educational Enterprise team, this year from over 20 countries with more joining with suggestions always welcome. became the first in the world to receive across the three intakes each year. formal accreditation from one of the Ceridwen Scerri, MBA student and leading authorities on postgraduate Research Analyst from Malta offers a For more information on how Educational business education, The Association student perspective, highlighting that Enterprise could support you, contact us of MBAs (AMBA). 'the online MBA provides you with the via www.intranet.birmingham.ac.uk/ This groundbreaking AMBA thrilling experience of connecting globally staff/university/educationalenterprise accreditation validates our ambition to through your computer.' FEATURE: EDUCATIONAL ENTERPRISE FEATURE: EDUCATIONAL ENTERPRISE 9

Our Mission ‘To collaborate in the development of distinctive, high-quality and innovative learning experiences, that anticipate the changing needs of learners across the globe.’ Ian Myatt, Director of Educational Enterprise

‘I really value the contribution that Educational Enterprise makes to the development and marketing of our on-line MPA and MSc in Public Management. They provide expert advice, support and have also helped us to establish very close working relationships with our partner, Wiley.’ Professor Catherine Staite, Director of INLOGOV 86 DIFFERENT 63% NATIONALITIES OF STUDENTS ARE INTERNATIONAL

INCREASED ACCESSIBILITY AND FLEXIBLE RESOURCES AVAILABLE TO STUDENTS ONLINE

TEL hub

Educational Enterprise works closely ‘A real strength has been the ability to establish with the Technology Enhanced Learning and deliver both meaningful internal and strategic (TEL) hub which provides support to external partnerships for maximum impact and academics in their use of innovative teaching through greater utilisation mutual benefit.’ of new learning environments. Dr Alaric Campbell Rae Find out more about the TEL hub Director of Student Recruitment, and how they can help you at intranet. birmingham.ac.uk/telhub External Relations 10 FEATURE: CELEBRATING YOUR SUCCESS FEATURE: CELEBRATING YOUR SUCCESS Celebrating Success 2016

It is easy to Services’ BUAFTAs to celebrate these I offer my warmest congratulations to all write about the efforts and I would strongly encourage those that have been recognised for their achievements you all to put forward nominations for work. Our successes are the culmination of the University these awards. of the time, efforts, creativity and ingenuity using well- I am also pleased, and indeed of all colleagues at the University. Let me recognised facts exceptionally proud, that the successes offer my thanks to each of you for your and figures – of academic and Professional Services contribution to the University. I hope that the impact of colleagues are increasingly being you are each able to recognise and take our research, recognised outside the University. The credit for your part in the University’s the employability of our students, the breadth and depth of the accomplishments achievements. completion of each new building, and is impressive and emphasises the quality so on. But, of course, we should always of people we have here in Birmingham. Professor Sir David Eastwood remember that each of these achievements This special feature has been created Vice-Chancellor is only possible because of the to showcase just some of the recognition extraordinary efforts of our people. that colleagues have received during the I am pleased that within the University past 12 months. I hope that in reading we have awards such as the Outstanding about these successes, you also share Teaching Awards and the Professional the same sense of pride. FEATURE: CELEBRATING YOUR SUCCESS FEATURE: CELEBRATING YOUR SUCCESS 11

Honours

The Queen’s Birthday and New Year Honours saw colleagues recognised for their services to higher education, or achievements within their academic discipline.

Professor Sir Birmingham. He is also Director of the Congratulations also go to: Stanley Wells Centre for Clinical Haematology at QEHB. � Professor Deirdre Kelly, of Birmingham received a Children’s Hospital, who is a Professor knighthood for Mrs Carolyn Pike, of Paediatric Hepatology at the his services to Director of Legal University and has been honoured the study and Services, has been with a CBE. appreciation of awarded the OBE � Professor Celia Moss, University of Shakespeare. for services to Birmingham Honorary Professor and Sir Stanley’s contribution to the higher education Consultant in Paediatric Dermatology, Shakespeare Institute has been life-long: and the legal Birmingham Children’s Hospital, he studied for his PhD here, served for profession. Carolyn who received the OBE for services many years as a Fellow, and later – was pivotal in to Paediatric Dermatology. after a secondment to Oxford to prepare the setting up � Professor Colin John Warbrick, the groundbreaking Oxford edition of of the Association of University Legal Emeritus Professor of Law at the Shakespeare – became Director. It was Practitioners 16 years ago, and in 2014 University, who became a Companion under Sir Stanley’s leadership that the she was named one of the UK’s ‘Top 100’ of the Most Distinguished Order Shakespeare Institute acquired its superb in-house lawyers by the leading legal of St Michael and St George (CMG) Johnson Library at Mason Croft, and re- journal The Lawyer, the only university for services to international law. established itself permanently in Stratford- lawyer ever to feature on the list, and Upon-Avon. was also named one of The Times' top 100 female lawyers. Professor Charles Craddock was Mr Alan Murdoch, awarded a CBE Senior Technical in the New Year Manager in the Institute Honours list of Biomedical Research for services to received a British medicine and Empire Medal. The medical research. award acknowledges the Professor Craddock is Director 40 years he has spent of the Blood and Marrow Transplant being involved in both Unit at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital teaching and research, Birmingham (QEHB) and Professor of supporting thousands of undergraduate Haemato-oncology at the University of and postgraduate students.

International influencers

Professor Alberto Vecchio, Dr Tom Clutton-Brock, Reader in Professor Simon Halsey was awarded Professor Andreas Freise and Anaesthesia and Intensive Care at the the Mendelssohn Medal for outstanding the Gravitational Wave Group – University and QEHB, has been named contribution to choral life in Berlin, and Our groundbreaking scientists, as one of the top 100 ‘most influential has also received an Honorary Fellowship who brought the eyes of the world to drivers of the health technology revolution, from the Royal Welsh College of Birmingham, were co-recipients of the globally’ by Hot Topic. Music and Drama. 2016 Special Breakthrough Prize in Fundamental Physics, and the 2016 Gruber Prize in Cosmology. 12 FEATURE: CELEBRATING YOUR SUCCESS FEATURE: CELEBRATING YOUR SUCCESS

Fine Fellows Academics from the University have been conferred as Fellows and to a number of distinguished and prestigious scholarly societies.

� Dr Kit Field – Fellow of the International Professional Development Association � Professors Mark Exworthy, Russell Mannion, Jenny Phillimore, Martin Powell, and Nicholas Wheeler – Fellows of the Academy of Social Sciences � Dr Alex Connor – Fellow of the Royal Society of Biology � Dr Keith Brain – Fellow of the British Pharmacology Society � Dr Deirdre Lane – Fellow of the European Society of Cardiology � Dr David Boardman – Fellow of the Institute of Knowledge Transfer � Professor Shuang Zhang – Fellow of The Optical Society (OSA) and the Royal Society Wolfson Merit Award winner

Student Support The list of impressive accolades bestowed on our Careers Network service demonstrates why we were named University of the Year for Graduate Employment.

� Best Careers/Employability Service at the National Undergraduate Employability (NUE) Awards � Winners of the ‘Best Preparation for Work Strategy’ at the Association of Graduate Recruiters (AGR) Development Awards � Best Careers Support for International Students at the National Union of Students and the UK Council for International Student Affairs Internationalisation Awards � Midlands University of the Year (Innovative category) at the Midlands Business Awards � National Association of Student Employment Services’ (NASES) National Student Employee of the Year Awards: � Jessica Fitzgibbon – Regional Winner of the Step Up to Leadership Award � Manu Sasidharan – Regional ‘Highly Commended’ for the Above & Beyond Award FEATURE: CELEBRATING YOUR SUCCESS FEATURE: CELEBRATING YOUR SUCCESS 13

Cleaner, Smarter Campus

Throughout the University, staff work to cut our carbon footprint, and work towards developing a campus that is sustainable and environmentally friendly.

� Junkbusters, our multi-award-winning recycle and reuse initiative, has won the Chartered Institution of Wastes Management (CIWM) Award for the Best Recycling Scheme. The initiative has also raised more than £100,000 for the British Heart Foundation, and funded CPR training at more than 19 schools in the local area, equipping children with lifesaving skills. � UniGreenScheme, a University of Birmingham supported initiative run by Michael McLeod, a PhD student at the University, has been awarded the Santander Universities Entrepreneurship Award 2016. Started in 2015, the scheme helps UK universities recoup space and meet environmental targets through the collection and resale of surplus laboratory equipment.

Excellence in Education Our academics and professional services staff go above and beyond to improve the student experience at the University, offering students access to the highest standards of teaching, facilities and support.

� The Department of Civil Engineering – overall winners in the Education category at the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) West Midlands Awards. � Educational and Development team in CLAD and Learning Spaces – professional award recognition by the Higher Education Academy (HEA) with Academic Practice Advisors Dr Marios Hadjianastasis, Dr Petia Petrova and Dr Chris Ribchester becoming Senior Fellows, and Dr Karen Skinazi achieving Fellow status. � Library Services (led by Ann-Marie James) – winners of the Talis Insight Award for ‘Excellence in Implementation and Management’ 2016. � Dr Amelia Swift – awarded the Educator of the Year at the 2016 Student Nursing Times Awards. � Professor Prem Kumar – awarded the Otto Hutter Teaching Prize. 14 FEATURE: CELEBRATING YOUR SUCCESS

Ones to watch

These awards recognise emerging talent at the University, and the significant contribution already made by academics to their chosen field of study.

� Dr Sean Elvidge, Department of � Dr John S Fossey and undergraduate Electronic, Electrical and Systems student Nicholas Cundy, were both Engineering, was named in the Forbes’ presented with Lilly Open Innovation '30 Under 30 Europe' list in the Science Drug Discovery (OIDD) Awards. and Healthcare category. Dr Fossey also received the Molecular � Dr Anne-Marie Krachler, Fellow in the Sensors and Molecular Logic Gates School of Biosciences, received the (MSMLG) 2016 Czarnik Emerging Biological Systems Early Career Award. Investigator Award. � Dr Anna Peacock, Senior Lecturer in � Patrick Moynihan was awarded a Chemistry, received the 2016 Royal Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Society of Chemistry’s Inorganic Research Council Future Leader Biochemistry Discussion Group Young Fellowship. Investigator Award. � Dr Dipak Kotecha was awarded a � Mr Andrew Beggs, Clinical Lecturer NIHR Career Development Fellowship. in General Surgery in the Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, was awarded the Young Coloproctologist of the Year 2016.

Strategic Influence The quality of staff at the University can often lead to requests for their expertise to be shared and utilised by other high-profile organisations such as government departments and charities.

� Professor Myra Nimmo, Pro-Vice- � Professor Judith Smith (pictured) Chancellor and Head of the College and Dr Iestyn Williams have both been of Life and Environmental Sciences, appointed to the panel for the National has been appointed Chair of England Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Athletics. Health Services Delivery and Research Programme.

� Dr Helen Stokes-Lampard became � Dr Iestyn Williams became Governor Chair of the Royal College of General of the University Hospital Birmingham Practitioners NHS Foundation Trust.

� Professor Jon Glasby was elected � Professor Simon Collinson was a Board Member of the Campaign appointed Chair of the Chartered for Social Sciences Association of Business Schools. FEATURE: CELEBRATING YOUR SUCCESS 15

Our success continues…

Buzz is pleased to highlight accolades received by staff across the University who have been recognised for their hard work and dedication. We recognise that we may not have captured everyone, but we hope this list demonstrates the breadth and scale of our achievements.

� Kathy Kenward – Cleaning Operative � Dr Juliane Kloess – Junior Award, � Dr Susannah Thorpe – Royal of the Year 2016 Winner, BACHE the Division of Forensic Psychology Society Leverhulme Trust Senior (British Association of Cleaning in (British Psychological Society) Research Fellowship Higher Education) � Drs Hector Basevi, Hamid Dehghani, � Marianne Hensman – Higher � Cleaning Services – Finalists: and Iain Styles – jointly awarded the Education Academy Fellowship Accredited Training Organisation (ATO) Josiah Mason Founders Award for � Professor Nigel Simpkins – Royal of the year 2016, British Institute of Business Advancement Society Industry Fellowship Cleaning Science (BICSc) � Professor Gideon Hirschfield – � Daniela Kuhn – Engineering and � Postgraduate Recruitment – HEIST Graham Bull Prize in clinical science Physical Sciences Research Council Bronze Award for ‘Best Postgraduate and Goulstonian Lectureship from the (EPSRC) Established Career Fellowship Student Recruitment Initiative’ for the Royal College of Physicians � Dr Alex Mazharian – British Heart Virtual Open Day platform � Dr Ye Htun Oo – 2016 Sir Francis Foundation Intermediate Basic Science � The Legacy programme Avery Jones Medal, the British Society Research Fellowship (Remembering Birmingham) – of Gastroenterology � Dr Nigel Drury – British Heart Emerging Programmes Silver Award, � Professor David Gillborn – Laureate, Foundation Intermediate Clinical Council for Advancement and Support Kappa Delta Pi Research Fellowship of Education (CASE) � Professor Fang Gao Smith (and � Dr Konstantinos Konstantinidis � Old Joe (Digital) – ‘Best Use of team) – Clinical Trials and Evaluation and Dr Alexandros Feresidis – IOP Digital’, shortlisted for a Chartered Innovation Award, West Midlands Science Journal of Optics, ‘Highlight Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) Academic Health Science Network of 2015’ Award � Dr Francesca Barone – Arthritis � Dr David Grainger – Microbiology � Dr Finnola Kerrigan – Journal of Research UK Senior Research Society’s Fleming Prize. Also awarded Marketing Management Reviewer Fellowship the Biochemical Society Colworth Medal Award 2015 for 'outstanding' � Dr Pola Goldberg Oppenheimer – � Dr Robert Neely – EPSRC Healthcare contribution to the peer-review process Royal Academy of Engineering Technologies Challenge Award � Dr Jane Glover – Family Business Research Fellowship � David Smith – EPSRC Healthcare Review ‘Best Article’ Award � Professor Rosie Harding – British Technologies Challenge Award � Rhys Crilley – ISAICOMM 2016 Best Academy Mid-Career Fellowship � The Epstein–Barr virus vaccine team Paper Award � Professor Kiran Trehan – 2016 – Translational Cancer Research Prize, � Professor Gurdyal Besra – Outstanding Reviewer Award, Cancer Research UK Microbiology Society’s Colworth Prize International Journal of Entrepreneurial � Dr Dawn Fisher – Senior Practitioner Behaviour and Research Award from the Division of Forensic Psychology (British Psychological Society) 16 FEATURE: BOOK TO THE FUTURE

October is Black History Month, and the University will again be celebrating the culture and histories of black and minority ethnic communities with a comprehensive programme of events throughout the month.

Black History Month is a major annual celebrations from The Guild of Students, Professor Una Martin, Deputy PVC event in the City of Birmingham's calendar, performances from a Maori cultural group, for Equalities – ‘This year’s Black which recognises the vital and continuing poetry and short story competitions, History Month programme has been contribution of Black communities to the exhibitions, University Challenge, as well arranged by a group of student and city's past, present and future development. as talks on various aspects of the culture staff volunteers who have used the The University aims to contribute to the and history of black and ethnic minority University’s research, education and city’s programme by drawing on its communities. Also taking place during cultural assets to produce a fantastic research, education and cultural assets October is the 20th Annual Ethnic Minority programme of events. Commemorating to organise a range of events for students, Business Conference, run by the Centre history months is one of the ways staff and the community that spark thought for Research in Ethnic Minority, CREME, that we recognise and celebrate and discussion as well as celebration and based in the Business School at the the contribution and histories of all enjoyment. University. The conference will be held at members of our community and I The programme of events taking place at Fazeley Studios in the heart of the city’s would encourage everyone to take the University throughout October includes creative quarter. part in the events on offer.’

For full details for all events please visit: www.birmingham.ac.uk/blackhistorymonth Additional information can also be found at: www.facebook.com/bemaonline

WORLD MENTAL HEALTH DAY /10 OCTOBER 2016

On Monday 10 October, individuals, Uncoupling Mental Illness from Irrationality', BIRMINGHAM charities and organisations across the world the Barber gallery tour: art as a creative HEROES will be raising awareness of mental health tool to mental wellbeing, and the Barber illnesses. The theme for the 2016 World Recovery Arts exhibition. All events will take Mental Health Day is ‘Dignity in Mental place at The Barber Institute of Fine Arts. Health-Psychological & Mental Health First Aid for All’ and aims to address the stigma For full details of all events please visit and discrimination experienced from those intranet.birmingham.ac.uk/hr/wellbeing/ suffering mental health issues. World-Mental-Health-Day-2016.aspx The University will be hosting a number of events, open to staff and students, to Mental health and wellbeing are important explore the issues surrounding mental ill parts of the life of an employee at the Dr Michael Larkin Professor Lisa Bortolotti Dr Ema Sullivan-Bissett health and provide advice and support University. Should you feel you would like WE ARE CHALLENGING THE STIGMA OF to help improve mental wellbeing. some help and support, you can contact the Events include an exhibition giving you Workplace Wellbeing team confidentially. MENTAL ILLNESS the chance to chat to both University and For more details on how to access these THE DIVIDE BETWEEN BEING MENTALLY ILL AND external organisations that specialise in services, visit the employee support intranet MENTALLY WELL IS CLOSER THAN YOU THINK mental health awareness and support, a page: intranet.birmingham.ac.uk/hr/ lecture from the Birmingham Heroes mental contact/wellbeing/ess.aspx www.birmingham.ac.uk/heroes WHY DOES THIS MATTER TO YOU? illness project titled 'Project PERFECT – FEATURE: BOOK TO THE FUTURE 17 BOOK TO THE FUTURE IS BACK! The University’s annual festival of the written and spoken word returns to campus with a wide range of free events from Thursday 13 to Saturday 15 October 2016.

Now in its third year, Book to the Future, You can sign up for free workshops, organised by the College of Arts and talks, and performances by University Law, celebrates the best of Birmingham’s colleagues, students, and alumni, plus creative talent, and there are plenty of there will be opportunities to meet and exciting events that staff can attend as get tips from some of the region’s part of this year’s programme. leading literary lights.

Just a few highlights from this year’s packed programme include:

Anatomist and broadcaster, Professor Alumnus, author and screenwriter Jed Alice Roberts, celebrates the opening Mercurio provides insights on how he of the new University Library and creates critically acclaimed shows Inspiring Knowledge exhibition with including Critical and the award- a talk on Vesalius’ influential work ‘On the Fabric of the Human Body’ winning BBC drama Line of Duty

Man Booker Prize shortlisted author, and alumna, Birmingham academics will Clare Morrall explains reprise successful talks from why Birmingham plays this year’s Hay Festival on /10 OCTOBER 2016 a key role in her work themes from Shakespeare to the Haitian Cholera crisis

Jan Watts, alumna and former Birmingham poet Local authors share their tips on An exclusive laureate, will debut her how to publish, promote, and push ‘Instameet’ at the new play 'Holding Baby' through the dreaded writer’s block, new University exclusively for festival in your own work Library attendees

With almost 30 events across the festival Book to the Future is supported by the there will be something for everyone, University’s College of Arts and Law and and events are open to University staff, Bramall Music Building, ensuring that all students, alumni and the wider community. events are free to attend.

Visit www.birmingham.ac.uk/bttf to find out more and register to attend. Follow all of the festival action on Twitter via #UoBbttf 18 CAMPUS CURIOSITIES AND CHANCELLOR’S COLUMN NEWS AND VIEWS CAMPUS CURIOSIT?ES

Chancellor’s column

As we begin the new academic year, we can reflect on Team GB’s inspirational performance in the Rio Olympics this summer. I always spoke proudly about how our country, with one per cent of the world’s population, came third in the Olympic medal table What is it? in 2012. This year we came second Divination bowl, ‘apoti Ifa’ type, by ‘George’ Bamidele Areogun, collected in (above China, a country of 1.3 billion 1952, Research and Cultural Collections. people) and, as I write this, we are second in the Paralympic medal table Where is it? as well! Danford Room, Arts Building (viewable by appointment). It has been amazing to see Britain perform successfully in a wide variety The Danford Collection of West African Art and Artefacts celebrates the cultural of sports and it was wonderful to traditions and artistic expression of countries in West Africa. It includes many see Birmingham students, past religious and ceremonial objects, an example being divination bowls. and present, contributing to Team GB’s success. This type of bowl is used to store palm nuts and is used by diviners in the Ifa religion The University of Birmingham’s of the Yoruba people, South-West Nigeria. Ifa is the Yoruba God of Wisdom and collaboration with a contingent of the divination process translates this wisdom through a system of signs. Indian sports coaches shortly after the Olympics highlights our sporting The bowl was produced during Bamidele’s time as the lead carver at the Oye-Ekiti pedigree, and the new £55 million workshop in Nigeria. The workshop was set up with the intention of starting a local sports centre, complete with tradition of Christian art. Assistant Curator, Anna Young, explains: 'Many of the Birmingham’s first 50-metre pool, carvers at Oye-Ekiti had converted to Islam, so the workshop was a place of will be a wonderful boost for the creativity and compromise between religions and their related artistic practice: University and the city as a whole. traditional Yoruba, Christian and Muslim.' As I write this, I am preparing to row in the annual House of Lords vs House of Commons Boat Race on Learn more the Thames, raising money for three This object forms part of the exhibition Curating the Campus: Highlights charities. I am drawing my inspiration of the Research and Cultural Collections (on display in the Bramall Music from the successes of Team GB and Building until 20 January 2017). Through object photography, this exhibition the University of Birmingham, and explores the artefacts’ stories and what they show us about the University. will be praying for the finish line! You can also visit our blog to find out more about the exhibition I wish you all a very enjoyable http://rcc-redmarely.tumblr.com and successful time here. CAMPUS CURIOSITIES AND CHANCELLOR’S COLUMN NEWS AND VIEWS 19

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Many articles about Birmingham research and expertise Follow us on Twitter at @unibirmingham. If you use social media appear in local, national and international press every day. at work and would like to increase your visibility, find out more at: Here are just a few examples of our recent highlights. intranet.birmingham.ac.uk/socialmediaguidelines

Professor Anthony Arnull took part in a BBC Radio 5 Live broadcast on the implications of Britain exiting the EU; Dr Tereza Capelos appeared on CNN International; Jon Bloomfield talked to theLA Times about why ethnic communities voted for Brexit; and Professor Tony Yates wrote in The Times on UK trade implications. Following the Chilcot Inquiry, Dr Jamie Gaskarth provided commentary for The Huffington Post and The Financial Times. Research by Dr Sam Finnikin and Professor Kate Jolly, which found nursery policies on conjunctivitis cause thousands of unnecessary antibiotics prescriptions, was covered by the Daily Mail and Huffington Post. Professor Bob Stone’s innovative mixed reality 'Chinook', helping to train UK Armed Forces medics, was featured in The Telegraph. Dr Blaire Morgan’s work on the impact of social media on young people’s character development was covered feeling social... by the BBC, Daily Mirror, and over 40 international outlets. During summer graduations we asked our new graduates Professor Julian Bion spoke to the Guardian, The Telegraph, to share one word with us that summed up their time here. The Independent and BBC on the ‘7-day NHS’ The digital team mixed with graduands during the week, Dr Grace Turner’s work on the long-term impact of encouraging them to share their experiences and inspire the ‘mini-strokes’ featured in the Daily Mail and numerous next generation of students. We shared their images and international outlets. comments on all our social channels, creating a buzz and excitement around the event, as well as providing information Professor Damien Walmsley spoke to The Times, the Guardian, and signposting to relevant pages on the website. BBC, and Sky News following a study that found flossing teeth Meanwhile, the alumni team used the University Instagram to be ineffective. account to congratulate graduates, thank them for their images Research by Dr Flavio Garcia and Dr David Oswald on how and inform them that they were entered into the Win a Working easily keyless car locking systems can be hacked was Wardrobe competition. covered by the Daily Telegraph, New York Times, LA Times, After the event, galleries of candid images from the day and BBC, and the Guardian. the ‘one word’ images were shared across the social channels Dr Damien Cruse featured on a Radio 4 special report into ‘mind and added to digital storyboards, to share online and via emails reading’ and communicating with patients in a vegetative state. to prospective students for further impact. Image galleries on Facebook also linked back to the alumni Professor Catherine Staite was interviewed on BBC Radio 4’s pages, to encourage graduates to engage with the team and Today programme on Birmingham and the Midlands Engine. continue the relationship beyond graduation. profile in myownwords Kathy Armour… evolve as knowledge becomes more open, searchable evolve asknowledgebecomes more open,searchable change andapproachestolearningwillcontinue are farfromcomplacent.Employers’expectations exceptionally wellonthismetricbut,hereagain,we continue tobeahottopic.TheUniversitydoes performance, althoughwealwaysaspiretodobetter. of TEFandweareproudourconsistentlystrongNSS Survey willcontinuetobeanimportantpartofallstages workable assessmentframework.TheNationalStudent to workwithgovernmentandthesectordevelopa to itsconsultationregardingTEF2and3,weintend well inTEF1.WeawaittheGovernment’sresponse about education.We’realsoconfidentthatwe’llperform spectre oftheTEFhasinitiatednewconversations that havebeenproposed,wearepleasedthe concerns abouttheproxymeasuresofteachingquality challenge forusall.Althoughwehavesignificant Excellence Frameworkor‘TEF’representanew Government’s planstointroduceanationalTeaching and ensureoureducationprovisionisworld-leading. strengths, leadinnovation,supportstudentsandstaff, forward toworkingwithcolleaguesbuildonour I’m certainlypassionateabouteducationandIlook REF2014 panelmemberforpedagogyinmyfield. My researchinterestiseducationandIwasalsoa In manyways,PVCEducationisanidealjobforme. step althoughIrecognisethatstillhavemuchtolearn. University. Iamexcitedabouttakingthisnextcareer leadership andtogainawiderunderstandingofthe Sciences ledtonewopportunitieslearnabout Head oftheSchoolSport,ExerciseandRehabilitation leadership wasunplanned.In2012,takingontheroleof flexible andresponsive. I understandtheneedforhighereducationtobe while workingandbringingupthreechildren,so University ofSouthampton–wasundertakenpart-time at theLondonInstituteofEducationandaPhD All ofmypostgraduateeducation–aMastersdegree in 2006 1999 asaSeniorLecturer,andwasawardedChair educator, thenmovedtoLoughboroughUniversityin up alecturerpostatBrunelUniversityasteacher and thentaughtinsecondaryschoolsLondon.Itook I grewupinHertfordshire,trainedasateacherKent programme, and competition between providers will programme, and competitionbetweenproviders will more personalised degreepathwaysandnewtypes of HE willlikelylead todemandsforgreaterflexibility, expectations. Thegrowingconsumerist narrativearound and communicationmechanisms mustmatchtheir usual’ foryoungpeoplesooureducation delivery and accessible.Digitalhasbecome ‘businessas Pro-Vice-Chancellor forEducation. Professor KathleenArmouristhe There is no doubt that graduate employability will There isnodoubtthatgraduateemployabilitywill UKHE isinaperiodofconsiderablechange.The I havetoconfessthatthemoveintouniversity . IjoinedtheUniversityofBirminghamin2010.

Equality CharterMark. term, includingworkingtowardsgainingtheRace look outforinformationonnewinitiativescomingthis expected. We‘retacklingtheseconcerns,sokeepa and somestudentsdon’tprogressaswell do. Somesectorsofsocietyremainunderrepresented, is highlyregardedinthesectorbutwehavemoreto good at be opentoallwhocanbenefit.Weareparticularly of itscivicmissionandthebeliefthatourdoorsmust foundation in1900,theUniversityhasbeenproud particularly thetoprankedinstitutions.Fromits young peoplefacechallengesinreachinguniversity, provision inaresearch-intensiveuniversity. much clearerabouttheuniquefeaturesofeducation institutions. Inthiscontext,Ibelievewewillneedtobe undoubtedly intensifywiththearrivalofnew‘challenger’ instructive struggle! it’s fun,theprocess oflearningtosingjazzismy struggle asalearner. Well,Icanconfirmthat while should keepremindingthemselves ofwhatit’sliketo Brookfield, aleadingeducator, arguedthateducators (but notinanyvenuethatyouwill know!).Stephen singer andIevenperforminpublic occasionally and rathersedatejogging.I’m also awannabejazz dancing havebeenreplacedbyvisitstothegym although myformerpassionsfornetballandIrish we canensureremainattheforefrontofsector. for ourUniversity.Ifweengagecollectivebrain, staff inconversationsaboutthefutureswecanimagine talent. Ilookforwardtoengagingwithstudentsand external landscape,wewillneedtooptimiseallthis corners oftheUniversity.Inordertothriveinnew convinced methatsector-leadingtalentexistsinall meeting ProfessionalServicescolleagueshas used forotherprogrammes.Inshort:Win-Win-Win! and hasleftuswithawealthofmaterialthatcanbe by UNESCO,formspartofaREFimpactcasestudy, programme. Inaddition,theMOOCwasrecognised countries, someofwhomthenregisteredonaMasters The MOOCattracted5,000teachersfromover150 specifically asCPDforPhysicalEducationteachers. we developedthefirstFutureLearnMOOCdesigned interest inourprogrammes.Forexample,SportExR use MOOCstofurtherourinfluenceandgeneratenew around forawhile,butweareevolvingnewwaysto allow ustobreakintonewmarkets.MOOCshavebeen students enrichourcampus,ande-learninginnovations partnerships enhanceourreputation,international universities areglobalorganisations.International At the same time, we are all acutely aware that some At thesametime,weareallacutelyawarethatsome Outside ofwork,I’manenthusiasticexerciser, My experienceofvisitingacademicschoolsand National prioritiesaside,research-intensive outreach activitiesandourA2Bprogramme