| 3 King’s Health Partners | 4 Opera premiere | 8 Profile: Chris Mottershead | 19 Art at King’s

CommentThe College newsletter Issue no 187 | March 2009 New £4m cancer unit Supermodel Naomi Campbell opens a new £4 million breast cancer research unit.

A new breast cancer research unit, funded by Breakthrough New flags flying from King’s rooftops Breast Cancer (BBC), was greg funnell launched last month. It will be dedicated to finding treatments for, and ways of preventing, a particularly aggressive type of breast cancer.

The first unit of its kind in the UK

The research unit will investigate triple negative breast cancer, which is more common among younger women and those of African origin. Despite there being up to 6,000 new cases in the UK each year, very little is known about triple negative breast cancer. The continued on page 2

Stop press King’s Health Partners accredited

As Comment went to press King’s Health Partners was formally accredited as one of the UK’s first Academic Health Sciences Centres (AHSCs). Five AHSCs have been approved by the international expert panel appointed by the Department Eagle-eyed readers may have spotted that three new red flags flying the King’s logo have recently appeared on top of the of Health. See page 3 for more Maughan Library & Information Services Centre and the James Clerk Maxwell and Waterloo Bridge Wing buildings. Red was on this major achievement. chosen for two reasons: firstly it is commonly perceived as the King’s corporate colour and secondly, it is more eyecatching from a distance than the previously used blue. News

New £4 million cancer unit continued from page 1 She added: ‘Having a mother The research team will use Cancer, said: ‘Breast cancer is research unit, the first of its kind who is a breast cancer survivor cutting-edge technology. The the most common cancer in the in the UK, has been set up by means I know how important it unit is equipped with an £80,000 UK – nearly 46,000 women are King’s and Breakthrough Breast is to find new treatments for this Hamamatsu Nanozoomer, the diagnosed with the disease each Cancer and is based at Guy’s disease. I am thrilled that BBC latest digital microscope, which year. Only through research can Hospital. is opening a new research unit to shows images of the body’s tissue we improve our understanding of Dr Andrew Tutt, Director of investigate a type of cancer that at an unprecedented level of breast cancer and devise ways to the research unit, said: ‘There are is more common among black detail. It also enables scientists better treat, diagnose and prevent several different types of breast women.’ from around the world to digitally the disease. This Breakthrough cancer and triple negative breast share and analyse microscopic Breast Cancer Research Unit, cancer is more difficult to treat images at the same time. will play a vital role in developing than other forms of the disease. Scientists and clinicians The unit is based at Guy’s our knowledge of triple negative This is because tumours do not can work closely in Hospital, part of the Guy’s and St breast cancer.’ respond to targeted treatments Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust. The work of the unit like tamoxifen or Herceptin and collaboration It is adjacent to King’s Academic complements the vision of the are more likely to return after Breast Unit. Its location allows Integrated Cancer Centre (ICC), treatment.’ Scientists will be trying to find scientists and clinicians to work a collaboration between King’s; Naomi Campbell’s mother, out more about triple negative closely in collaboration. Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Valerie Campbell, is in remission breast cancer, in particular which This is one of three research Foundation Trust; King’s College from this type of breast cancer. genetic changes in the tumour units being opened in the UK by Hospital NHS Foundation Trust; Her daughter said: ‘It’s something cause or drive its growth. They the charity. They each focus on and the South East London that’s never really happened in want to learn more about the a specific area of breast cancer Cancer Network. my family. It just made me more biology of the disease, including research and all have strong links The ICC has a vision to aware.’ if there is a ‘cancer stem cell’ that with a major cancer hospital or develop world-class cancer She told staff and supporters of causes it. With this knowledge, breast unit and research institute services to serve people across the charity at the launch of the unit they will try to find new ways to or university. south east London and, for that her mother would have to wait diagnose, treat, and ultimately Jeremy Hughes, Chief more specialist services, patients another 18 months for the all-clear. prevent this form of breast cancer. Executive of Breakthrough Breast from further afield.

Principal’s column Creative King’s Creative King’s, a College-wide initiative exploring the notion g re g funn ell g of creativity and its place in academic life, launched this term. Ten weekly discussions took Dear colleagues Services for Students, will be months the College will be place at the Strand Campus, The austere financial climate, holding roadshows to highlight submitting a self-evaluation and including a talk about the which threatens significant changes and emphasise the we must ensure that everything challenges in supporting creative public expenditure cuts from importance of processing is in order for the main audit visit thinking in science departments 2010 and has brought immediate overseas applications quickly which is planned for the end of by Dr Mark Miodownik, cuts in investment income, was and efficiently. November. More information Head of the Materials Research the backdrop to the topics I have The way forward won’t be about this will follow in Comment. Group, School of Physical been discussing at the recent fora easy because of the UK and In February I visited our Sciences & Engineering. The around College campuses. world economic situation but numerous alumni in Hong Kong. events were open to all staff One of the most pressing we have some very good RAE Closer ties to alumni, including and students. issues, and a challenge faced results – 60 per cent of our fundraising, are even more Dr Jan Palmowski, Head of the by all universities, is the need research activity is world-leading important in the context of the School of Arts & Humanities, not only to cut costs but also or internationally excellent economic downturn. explains: ‘King’s has developed to increase revenues. This (4* & 3*) – which provide us Finally, in my capacity as thriving links with the cultural places particular importance with an excellent platform to President of UUK I have been and creative sector, business, the on the further increases in the build on. Vice-Principal, Chris lobbying the Government to health services, and finance. With recruitment of overseas students. Mottershead (Research & try and minimise the damage experts on creativity ranging from With this in mind staff should Innovation), is co-ordinating the to higher education that public the arts to the sciences and the be aware of new complex visa follow-up to the RAE. spending cuts would bring. health schools, the College is in regulations which threaten to Success in the forthcoming The months ahead may be an ideal position to engage in make this essential activity more Quality Assurance Agency difficult, but I have no doubt that a wider debate about the challenging with immediate institutional audit is also essential King’s will continue to flourish. meaning of creativity, and how effect. Jenny Briggs, Director of to our future. In the next few Rick Trainor universities can contribute to a more creative society.’

2 | Comment | March 2009 | www.kcl.ac.uk News

Stop press King’s Health Partners accredited As Comment went to press King’s ‘This achievement is testament populations we serve and related academic activities. Health Partners was formally to the comprehensive range of beyond,’ said the Principal, We look forward to continuing accredited as one of the UK’s world-class expertise that exists Professor Rick Trainor. this exciting work so that we first Academic Health Sciences across King’s Health Partners. ‘We have made significant can develop an outstanding Centres (AHSCs). Five AHSCs The challenge ahead is to progress in recent months AHSC.’ have been approved by the make full use of our potential with our plans to align clinical For information see international expert panel to revolutionise the way that services, research and teaching www.kingshealthpartners.org/staff appointed by the Department healthcare is designed and much more closely for the More information will follow in of Health. delivered, both for the local benefit of patient care and future issues of Comment.

An important milestone for King’s Health Partners

piers allardyce King’s Health Partners hosted a Durham, North Carolina; major international conference Dr Michael Klag, Dean, Johns Academic Health Science Centres: Hopkins Bloomberg School a revolution in healthcare? on 6 of Public Health, Baltimore; March at New Hunt’s House, and Sir Alan Langlands FRSE, Guy’s Campus. Principal and Vice Chancellor, This one-day event provided University of Dundee. the opportunity for Academic Professor Robert Lechler, Health Sciences Centres Interim Director of King’s (AHSCs) from across the globe Health Partners and Vice- to collaborate and share ideas Principal (Health), gave the and their understanding of the welcome address. added value they bring to the King’s is part of King’s Health patient. Partners Academic Health The conference, attended by Sciences Centre, a pioneering more than 250 people, brought collaboration between King’s From left: Pauline Williams, Head of Academic Discovery Performance Unit, GlaxoSmithKline, Professor Frank Walsh, Interim Director of Research, King’s Health Partners, and Professor together a distinguished group College London, and Guy’s Robert Lechler, Interim Director of King’s Health Partners and Vice-Principal (Health). of speakers and panel members and St Thomas’, King’s College both from within King’s Hospital and South London range and depth of clinical and for patients, allowing them to Health Partners and externally and Maudsley NHS Foundation research expertise, spanning benefit from breakthroughs in including: Dr Victor Dzau, Trusts. both physical and mental medical science and receive President and CEO of the Duke King’s Health Partners health. Its combined strengths leading-edge treatment at the University Health System, brings together an unrivalled will drive improvements in care earliest possible opportunity.

Developing a visual identity for a new partnership

A new visual identity has been developed for King’s Health Partners. FHD, the branding arm of Fishburn Hedges, one of the UK’s foremost PR and communications groups, was appointed by the Academic Health Sciences Centre partners to advise on the process of name supporting brand but be capable were augmented by a series would always be better patient and brand development and of developing as a leading brand of focus groups covering graduate outcomes. to develop a distinctive and in its own right. students, patients and other The result of these insights striking visual identity. During 2008, FHD undertook stakeholders. was FHD’s realisation of the It was quickly established worldwide and UK research The results showed there King’s Health Partners name that the four partners would on the existing brand ‘equity’ was worldwide academic and logo – a rainbow continue to deliver their own of the partner organisations and ‘equity’ in the King’s name. representation of genetics and services under their own a range of alternative naming It was clear that the driving people – supported by the phrase brands. The AHSC would be a routes. Some 50 interviews purpose of the new organisation ‘Pioneering better health for all’.

www.kcl.ac.uk | March 2009 | Comment | 3 News

First opera for King’s Professor

RoB MooRE henRy pURCell pRoFessoR oF Composition, George Benjamin’s fi rst operaInto the Little Hill, received its UK premiere in a new production at the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden last month in a double-bill with Harrison Birtwhistle’s Down By the Greenwood Side.

‘one of britain’s most successful contemporary music exports’

The libretto for Into the Little Hill was written by playwright Martin Crimp who re-imagines the fable of the Pied Piper. It is a compact, 35-minute version of the story, scored for two female singers and 15 instrumentalists. In eight short scenes, it tells of a state threatened by a plague of rats, and a minister who wants to get rid of them in order to clean up society – and to help his re-election. While the music and drama are sharply etched – they tell a the Royal opera House, Covent garden. Below: The Pied Piper of Hamelin: ‘the wonderful music with shouting and laughter.’ Illustration by defi nite story – the meaning of Kate greenaway, 1888. Kg: English. Lebrecht Music and Arts Photo Library/Alamy. that story is open-ended and ambiguous. And that ambiguity, to the piece, and to beckon them works, and fi nely wrought for Professor Benjamin, is the into a world of imagination.’ vocal settings are played by point of opera, and of theatre. Tom Service of The Guardian orchestras and ensembles ‘The last thing I would want described Professor Benjamin worldwide. Professor Benjamin to do is to tell people what to as one of Britain’s most successful took up his post at King’s in feel or think in a work,’ he says. contemporary music exports, 2001 succeeding Sir Harrison ‘I want them to give themselves whose orchestral pieces, chamber Birtwhistle.

IoP contributes to landmark report

A Good Childhood, a landmark Child Health & Behaviour. individualism needs to be report commissioned by The report found that replaced by a value system where the Children’s Society, was children’s lives have become more people seek satisfaction more published in February with diffi cult than in the past and the from helping others rather than fi ndings and recommendations panel traces this to excessive pursuing private advantage. from the Inquiry Panel, chaired individualism – the aggressive 30,000 children and young by Judith Dunn, Professor of pursuit of personal success by people, parents, professionals and Developmental Psychology, adults. This produces more organisations contributed to the Institute of Psychiatry. family discord and confl ict; more two-year inquiry. The panel included colleagues pressure to own things; excessive A Good Childhood was Barbara Maughan, Professor of competition in schools; and covered widely by the national Developmental Epidemiology, unacceptable income inequality. newspapers and on BBC Radio and Stephen Scott, Professor of According to the panel, excessive 4’s You and Yours.

4 | Comment | March 2009 | www.kcl.ac.uk News

Major study into children’s asthma

An innovative study to examine the links between air pollution and vitamin D deficiency, and their impact on the respiratory health of children in east London to be carried out by King’s researchers, has received a £1.2 million grant.

Nearly a fifth of children in east London have asthma

Professor Tak Lee, Head of the Division of Asthma, Allergy and Lung Biology, who is leading the study said: ‘This project is hugely important for our local population. London has one of the worst traffic pollution problems in Europe and local children almost certainly have can deliver to our patients.’ people from some ethnic minority EXHALE programme, very high rates of vitamin D Nearly 90 per cent of the groups. Nearly a fifth of (Exploration of Health and Lungs deficiency. I am confident population lacks adequate levels children in east London have in the Environment) funded that this study will lead to real of vitamin D, especially in the a diagnosis of asthma recorded by the National Institute for advances in the understanding of winter months. Rates are higher by their doctor. Health Research comprehensive asthma and the clinical care we in east London, especially in The study known as the Biomedical Research Centre (BRC) at Guy’s and St Thomas’ is being undertaken by researchers and clinicians working in the Book Prize for Vice-Principal BRC, MRC-Asthma UK Centre in Allergic Mechanisms of greg funnell Sir Lawrence Freedman, He comments: ‘My aim Asthma at King’s, and Barts and Vice-Principal (Strategy with A Choice of Enemies The London School of Medicine and Development), Professor was to try to make sense of events and Dentistry. of War Studies and one of that were often as confusing as Children from Tower Hamlets Britain’s most distinguished they were controversial. I am attending schools located close historians, has won the obviously thrilled that my efforts to main roads will be studied prestigious 2009 Lionel Gelber have been recognised by such to define the effects of traffic Prize for his book A Choice of a distinguished panel of judges emission reduction, using Enemies: America Confronts for such a prestigious prize.’ comparative pollution and the Middle East. Professor Freedman’s book respiratory health data from ‘If you were to select only one examines three decades of US before the introduction of the book to understand the turmoil involvement in the Middle East, Low Emission Zone. and confusion of events in the reaching back to the presidency Professor Graham Lord, Middle East over the past 30 of Jimmy Carter. Deputy Director of the years, this is a perfect choice,’ ‘A Choice of Enemies is an comprehensive Biomedical said Noah Rubin, Chair of the epic work of scholarship and Research Centre, said: ‘This is Lionel Gelber Prize. analysis, covering a huge swath exactly the sort of research that The $15,000 prize will be of US foreign policy engagement the BRC is making possible as presented by the Lionel Gelber in revelatory detail,’ said Jury Sir Lawrence Freedman with his book. it brings together a number of Foundation in partnership Chair George Russell. ‘Lawrence important partners, enabling us to with the Munk Centre for Freedman depicts America’s book is an indispensable guide to offer the benefits of translational International Studies, University Middle East entanglements in the most strategically contested research to a wide patient and of Toronto, and Foreign Policy lucid, magisterial prose as an and volatile region in the world.’ volunteer base. The outcome magazine on 31 March absorbing mixture of accident, The Economist has called the of this research will help inform when Professor Freedman personality, idealistic intentions Lionel Gelber Prize ‘the world’s public health and government will deliver the annual Lionel and realpolitik, mostly purposeful most important award for non- policies locally, nationally and Gelber Lecture. and sometimes gone awry. This fiction.’ internationally.’

www.kcl.ac.uk | March 2009 | Comment | 5 News

Reporting war on TV WHO status gREg funnELL

The depaRTmenT oF palliaTive CaRe, Department in winning this Policy & Rehabilitation has important accolade. Over recent recently been awarded World years we have been working Health Organisation (WHO) with the World Health accreditation and has been Organisation in Europe on named a WHO Collaborating projects to help palliative care Centre for its research, education develop. They have used our and clinical care development in research evidence and needs palliative care. assessments, and we have developed guidance to help governments and clinicians ‘a tribute to my develop palliative care services.’ entire department’ The College also has two other WHO Collaborating Centres: the Centre for Research & Award-winning British television producer, sir Jeremy isaacs (second from right) The WHO collaborating Training in Mental Health, responsible for ground-breaking series such as The World at War and Cold War, centres are institutions such based at the Institute of and the 1981 documentary Ireland: A Television History, gave the 2009 annual lecture as research institutes, parts of Psychiatry, run by Professor of the Liddell Hart Centre for Military Archives in february. In his lecture, Reporting universities, academies and Rachel Jenkins; and the Centre War, Sir Jeremy addressed the issue of how to tackle war as a subject in television clinical groups, which are for Oral Cancer/Precancer, documentaries, and particularly in historical series. He discussed how images and voices come together to refl ect both military and civil experience of designated by the Director- run by Professor Saman 20th-century warfare, before contrasting the eff ects of today’s instant coverage General to carry out activities Warnakulasuriya at the with yesterday’s radio broadcast and cinema newsreel. [He is photographed here in support of the Organisation’s Dental Institute. with: professor sir lawrence Freedman, Vice-Principal (Strategy & Development) programmes. Currently there The Department of Palliative (left), patricia methven, Deputy Director of ISS and Director of Archives and Information Management, and general lord guthrie, Chairman of the trustees are more than 900 WHO Care will shortly move into the of the Liddell Hart Archive.] collaborating centres. new Cicely Saunders Institute, Professor Irene Higginson, a world fi rst in palliative care Director of the Cicely Saunders bringing together academic Institute and Head of the research, education and care Department of Palliative Care, under one roof. The Institute Funding allocation expressed her delight at the was offi cially launched by the award: ‘It is a tribute to all Prime Minister Gordon Brown The higheR edUCaTion FUnding terms of HEFCE funding. the hard work of my entire MP in February last year. Council for England (HEFCE) In terms of funding for gREg funnELL has announced its allocations to research King’s received institutions for the fi nancial year £59.4 million which ranks 2009-10. The allocation to King’s the College in sixth place in has shown a small increase England and demonstrates (0.2 per cent), to just under the quality and volume of the £137 million. research undertaken. All Russell Group institutions The Principal, Professor Rick in London have, for a variety Trainor, comments: ‘Naturally of reasons, experienced below I’m pleased that we haven’t average settlements. A particular suff ered an overall fi nancial aggravating factor in King’s loss, and that the predicted case has been the second huge loss of HEFCE income stage of implementation of the for major research universities ELQ (Equivalent and Lower has not materialised. However, Prime Minister gordon brown mp launched the Cicely Saunders Institute in february 2008. Qualifi cations) policy. That these are tough economic times measure reduces an institution’s more generally, and a number of funded HEFCE student numbers factors, including the small size on the basis of how many of the uplift in our HEFCE grant, Profi le 2009 ELQ students were enrolled will put pressure on our income. there in 2005-6. ‘Therefore inevitably the The new edition of Profi le will For historical reasons King’s College will be developing plans be out soon. Profi le is a short had a relatively large number to maintain our fi nancial strength. guide to the College’s history, of such students; the recent These plans, as already indicated structure and developments over cancellation by HEFCE of by a number of other Russell the last year. It will be available further allocations of ‘Additional Group institutions, necessarily at College receptions and Student Numbers’ has made it will involve reductions in costs as by emailing [email protected] impossible for King’s, this year, to well as increases in income from compensate for the ELQ cut in non-HEFCE sources.’

6 | Comment | March 2009 | www.kcl.ac.uk News

Comic fantasy author visits IoP bbc/iwc media Sir Terry Pratchett recently visited the Institute of Psychiatry to film for his documentary Terry Pratchett: Living with Alzheimer’s which was shown on BBC2 last month.

‘The importance of continued research in this area’

The bestselling author has early-onset Alzheimer’s which he is determined to tackle head on. In a two-part series Sir Terry confronted his uncertain future and the camera followed his progress as he explored cutting-edge science, alternative treatments and met other Sir Terry Pratchett Alzheimer’s sufferers. Determined to prevent it if Health. They visited the Centre delighted to have the opportunity to meet a potential recipient of he possibly can, Sir Terry took for Neuroimaging Sciences, the to show him our pioneering the benefits of their research.’ a personal journey through the Brain Bank, the MRC Social, research into Alzheimer’s. We are science and the reality of what Genetic and Developmental grateful to him for highlighting the • Sube Banerjee, Professor it is like to be diagnosed with Psychiatry Centre laboratories importance of continued research of Mental Health & Ageing, Alzheimer’s and what hope and Sir Terry was given a crash in this area, particularly in light Institute of Psychiatry, is the there is for a cure. course in the vital role that fruit of the Government’s National co-author of the five-year Sir Terry was shown round flies play in research. Dementia Strategy which National Dementia Strategy. by Simon Lovestone, Professor Professor Lovestone said: outlines measures to deal with The plan aims to facilitate of Old Age Psychiatry and ‘Sir Terry has shown immense the escalation of this devastating earlier diagnosis of dementia Director of the NIHR Biomedical courage in the making of illness. Many of our team are fans and better access to specialist Research Centre for Mental this programme and we were of his work and they were thrilled centres and support. Discussing nuclear disarmament

Wyn Bowen, Professor of Non- paper outlines a large number of the spread of nuclear weapons Proliferation & International practical measures that the UK is would have to be addressed Security, and Director of the taking across the non-proliferation together if the conference was to Centre for Science and Security agenda and seeks to promote make progress, he said. Studies, joined the Foreign broader debate on an issue of vital The other panellists included Secretary David Miliband, as part importance to the UK. Mariot Leslie, Director General of a panel to launch a discussion Defence and Intelligence, Foreign paper on nuclear disarmament. & Commonwealth Office and Lifting the Nuclear Shadow: A six-point plan for a Gordon Correra, BBC Security Creating the Conditions for nuclear-free world Correspondent. Abolishing Nuclear Weapons, a Professor Bowen has also Policy Information Paper by co-authored a research paper for the Foreign & Commonwealth Professor Bowen said that the International Commission Office, was launched last the document was part of a for Nuclear Non-Proliferation month, with a call from the ‘concerted effort to help shape and Disarmament on how states Digital representation of a nuclear explosion Foreign Secretary to re-energise the agenda ahead of the next might go about implementing in a desert-like locale. multilateral action to avoid the Nuclear Non-Proliferation the dismantlement of nuclear risk of nuclear proliferation. Treaty review conference’. It weapons systems in an accurate is one of the Commission’s Setting out a six-point plan recognised that disarmament and way which would engender affiliated research centres (see for a nuclear-free world, the strengthening safeguards against international confidence. King’s Comment 185).

www.kcl.ac.uk | March 2009 | Comment | 7 Profile

Chris Mottershead

greg funnell In September last year Chris Mottershead was appointed as Vice-Principal (Research & Innovation). He joins King’s following a 30-year career at BP. He is also a non- executive Director of the Carbon Trust, a member of the Advisory Board of the National Center for Atmospheric Research (US) and a Distinguished Adviser to the G20 Commission on Climate & Energy Security.

Tell us about your background. in departments in the top 10 per cent of the I started at BP as an instrument engineer country. I think this shows that we have much and in my career I’ve done everything from broader and deeper world-class research than being a researcher to running operations. For we, and others outside the College, recognise. the last five years I advised BP executive Although the College has a strong core management and governments around the there are some problems which need to world on a range of strategic issues, including be addressed, for example, a third of our long-term energy security and climate departments with 25 per cent of our people change. Previous to this, I was Technology were not in the top quartile – a reasonable Fact file Vice President, responsible for overseeing expectation for a world-class university. We all research, engineering, operational and don’t have sufficient world-class researchers Favourite book construction activities of the company’s so although we are good collectively this is an My shortlist is: Pride and Prejudice, global gas, power and renewables businesses. area where we can most definitely improve. Brideshead Revisited, A Perfect Spy and a Higher education continuously needs to book by Winston Churchill called Great What do you bring to your King’s role? demonstrate that it is giving back to society. Contemporaries. The Churchill book I have had a great welcome. I have found The RAE gives us a platform to shape comes out on top. It is a brilliantly written people very friendly and keen for me to our response, closing the gap between our collection of essays on the great people he help. Also, people seem much less interested aspiration and actual performance. met – a set of verbal cartoons – including in internal politics and professional rivalry, Hitler and Roosevelt. which can only be a positive thing. What are your plans for the future? I think being new to the College I have We need to build on what we are good at Favourite holiday destination an independence – not that the world is and increase our substantial core that is truly The Lake District, South Hams in Devon, different or that I have a different mental world class. We must broaden and deepen our southern California and south-east France model but perhaps I can bring a mirror to the research strength; bring more recognition and – all good places to go with children and organisation. visibility to innovation within the College; the backdrop for some great family beach For the last five years of my time at BP I and make sure these are done in a coherent holidays. worked as an adviser with an outward focus way and a way which is contributed to by our so the public sector isn’t new to me – I am teaching. We will be a truly great university Proudest work moment used to dealing with politicians and have when we do all three – research, innovation 15.30, one Tuesday afternoon in 2003. many links with some of the world’s best and teaching – very well. This was the moment BP suddenly universities. King’s has been around for more than decided it would ‘do renewables’ seriously, My role here is not radically different 180 years. This longevity sets it apart from ‘own our fair share of these opportunities’. from my role in the private sector – I think most businesses which come and go and says After five years of strategies which didn’t there are many similarities – managing something very positive about the College’s go anywhere suddenly there was this change, looking at how you ensure people do robust and sustainable management. The moment where a $10 billion business was things and making sure they are focused on College Committee structure for example is created and I’m proud to say it probably the right areas. an enormous advantage – I see it as a great wouldn’t have happened without me. way of communicating and achieving buy-in. What are your views on the RAE results? The College has had a period of stability I think the Research Assessment Exercise and that’s good. An organisation needs need to grow our leaders organically. First results illuminate in an unequivocal way stability to move forward effectively. The of all we need to identify these leaders, where the College’s strengths and weaknesses College now has the capacity to change, and our future stars, and provide them with lie. Overall we were ranked sixth in the the external world needs it to make changes. appropriate training and support. Great country. The RAE has demonstrated that the The College also has an aspiration to move leaders need to be people who are more College has a world-class core – one third of forward: the choices right now are very real than just excellent academics – they need our subjects are in the top 10 per cent in the and exciting. additional skills and we need to ensure country and 50 per cent of academics are Given the current economic climate we they are equipped with these.

8 | Comment | March 2009 | www.kcl.ac.uk News

Literary fraud at the Maughan John Sergeant, former BBC forgeries were one of the as the Ireland family lived in forgery, see: www.kcl.ac.uk/depsta/ political correspondent and lately sensations of the day and their Norfolk Street, close to what is iss/library/speccoll/bomarch/ hugely popular contestant on authenticity, or otherwise, was now the Strand Campus, and bommarch06.html Strictly Come Dancing, visited a matter of fierce debate,’ Katie Ireland’s play Vortigern enjoyed This item should appear in King’s in his role as presenter Sambrook explains. ‘It was the its first (and last) night a stone’s June. The One Show is a magazine on BBC1’s The One Show to publication of the Miscellaneous throw away at the Theatre Royal, programme with topical reports, learn more about one of the 18th papers that led to Ireland’s Drury Lane. features and interviews from century’s most audacious and undoing; his critics were able ‘John Sergeant seemed to find around the UK, airing week day celebrated literary frauds. to subject the facsimiles of the the story as compelling as I do; evenings at 19.00 on BBC1 – and forgeries to close scrutiny and it’s a terrific story and I’m sure has an audience of more than 5.5 thus to spot his mistakes. he will bring it alive for present- million viewers. John Sergeant ‘The Ireland Shakespeare ‘It’s fitting that the BBC chose day viewers.’ is an occasional presenter on forgeries were one of the to film our copy of the book, To read more about the community features. sensations of the day’ greg funnell

Located in the Maughan Library is the College’s Foyle Special Collections Library. It houses more than 150,000 volumes, including a copy of Miscellaneous papers and legal instruments under the hand and seal of William Shakespeare by William Henry Ireland. Katie Sambrook, the Special Collections Librarian, was filmed explaining how and why Ireland, a youth of 18, was able to convince leading members of London literary society that he possessed a hitherto unknown cache of letters and other documents in Shakespeare’s hand. In fact he had forged every one of these manuscripts himself. The forgeries included legal documents, a love letter to Anne Hathaway and even the text of an undiscovered play by Shakespeare, Vortigern. ‘The Ireland Shakespeare John Sergeant and Katie Sambrook with a copy of the Miscellaneous papers, part of the 18th-century’s biggest literary fraud. Improving treatment for patients with depression

Theragenetics Ltd, a personalised Avacta is a UK-based company and know-how within patient outcomes. medicine diagnostics company that develops detection and Theragenetics that is directed to Dr Alison Campbell, Managing spun out of the Institute of analysis technology aimed developing tests to improve the Director of King’s Business, Psychiatry, has been acquired primarily at the pharmaceutical treatment of patients with central says: ‘This is an exciting by Avacta Group plc. and healthcare markets. nervous system disorders such as development for Theragenetics Dr Janet Munro, a co-founder schizophrenia and depression. and another success for King’s. of Theragenetics, says: ‘We This ‘personalised medicine’ We believe that Avacta will bring view this as a very positive ‘An exciting development approach is aimed at identification complementary technology development for Theragenetics for Theragenetics’ of patients who will respond and expertise to drive the and a further step towards more effectively to any given development of the technology making personalised medicine drug treatment. In this way the towards a benefit for patients. diagnostics a reality in psychiatric The acquisition brings together most appropriate drugs can be King’s looks forward to strong practice.’ the complementary technology administered leading to improved links continuing.’

www.kcl.ac.uk | March 2009 | Comment | 9 International

International student numbers up

King’s has become even more popular of 2,081 in 2007-8. Compared the heart of London is attracting We need to encourage more with international undergraduate to three years ago, EU student more and more students from staff and students to spend and graduate students over the numbers have risen by 43 per all over the world. However, the time at our partner universities past academic year (2007-8). cent, that is 628 more students rise in international students is abroad to ensure King’s is The number of overseas (that than three years ago. King’s is only one aspect of the College’s truly international in both its is non-EU) students has risen by most popular with EU students internationalisation strategy. community and outlook.’ 19 per cent (509 students) over from France, Germany, Italy, the past year, with the largest Greece and Spain. increases coming from China (+68 students), India (+51), 10 million prisoners worldwide South Korea (+49) and the US The largest increase (+31). There were a total of 3,179 in overseas students More than 9.8 million increase of 300,000 since the overseas students at King’s last people are held in penal previous edition two years ago. year, 40 per cent, or 914, more is from China institutions throughout the If prisoners in ‘administrative students than in 2005. world, according to the latest detention’ in China are King’s is also increasingly Keith Hoggart, Vice-Principal edition of the World Prison included the total popular with students from Arts & Sciences and External Population List published by is over 10.6 million. The other EU countries. Student Relations, said: ‘King’s global the International Centre for World List is compiled by numbers are up 10 per cent on reputation for academic Prison Studies. This is an Roy Walmsley. the year before, reaching a total excellence and our location in French delegation visit Finnish Minister speaks greg funnell greg funnell Dr Paula Risikko, Finland’s Minister of Health & Social Services, delivered the annual David Hobman Lecture of the Institute of Gerontology and Age Concern England, at King’s at the end of January. The lecture outlined the new framework for high-quality care and services for older people, introduced in Finland last year.

High-quality care Mme Valérie Pécresse, French Secretary of State for Higher Education and Research, on a tour of the Franklin-Wilkins Building with the Principal, Professor Rick Trainor, discussing the and services for Public Finance Initiative/Public-Private Partnership scheme. older people The French Secretary of State for buildings as a means to increase Higher Education and Research, innovation in design and service Dr Risikko explained the Dr Risikko gave her only UK public speech at and the French Ambassador to delivery, facilitate greater risk aim of the framework was King’s as part of her visit, in which she held a number of high-level talks with her opposite the UK, visited King’s earlier this transfer to the private sector and the promotion of the health numbers in the UK government. term on a fact-finding mission. achieve better value for money. and welfare of older people They were welcomed by the The scheme provided the and to boost the quality their health and social services. Principal, Professor Rick Trainor. funding for the refurbished and effectiveness of services. ‘Both countries are seeking Mme Valérie Pécresse and His Franklin-Wilkins Building and As the population’s age to find the right balance Excellency Maurice Gourdault- the newly built New Hunt’s structure changes, the whole between the state, private Montagne visited the Franklin- House at Guy’s Campus. of society has to adjust to enterprise and Non- Wilkins Building, Waterloo Dr Andrew Kent, Technical the needs of a growing number Governmental Oganisation Campus, to learn more about the Manager for the Franklin- of older people. provision. We have much to refurbishment and management Wilkins Building, led a tour Professor Simon Biggs, learn from Finland’s attempts of the building under the Public showing teaching and research Director of the Institute of to blend the traditional Nordic Finance Initiative/Public-Private laboratories, the library and Gerontology, commented: approach of high quality and Partnership scheme. study areas, and the social ‘Finland and the UK both consistent provision with an King’s was the first university facilities. Mme Pécresse was have a growing population increasing diversity in in the UK to consider PFI as ‘very impressed’ with the of older people who wish to peoples’ demands and ways a procurement route for its building. have a say in the future of of meeting them.’

10 | Comment | March 2009 | www.kcl.ac.uk King’s people

awaRds Book shortlisted for prize

gREg funnELL Book prize The Archbishop of Canterbury treating specifi c ethical issues has announced that Imitating pertaining to each part of The Cambridge History of Greek Jesus by Revd Professor Scripture. The book culminates and Roman Warfare co-edited by Burridge, College Dean, is one with a chapter on apartheid as philip sabin, Professor of Strategic of the fi ve shortlisted titles for an ethical challenge to reading Studies, has been awarded the the Michael Ramsey Prize. The the New Testament; using 2009 Prize for Distinguished prize will be awarded at The South Africa as a contemporary Reference Book by the Society Guardian Hay Festival in May. case study enables him to for Military History in the US. In contrast to many studies highlight and further apply The President of the Society, of New Testament ethics, his previous discussion and Carol Reardon, said the book which treat the New Testament conclusions. had been selected to win for in general and Paul in particular, The award, which is ‘refl ecting editing skill and an Imitating Jesus (Eerdmans) sponsored by the Lambeth outstanding contribution to focuses on the person of Jesus Fund and administered by military history’. himself. SPCK, was inaugurated by Published by Cambridge Professor Burridge carefully Archbishop of Canterbury University Press, it provides and systematically traces Dr Rowan Williams to a comprehensive two-volume that combination of rigorous encourage the most promising survey of warfare in the ancient ethical instruction and inclusive contemporary theological Greek and Roman worlds. community through the letters writing and to identify it for a Accessible to the non-specialist, of Paul and the four Gospels, wider Christian readership. Revd professor Richard burridge it refl ects the most up-to- date approaches to the topic, in particular the social and economic dimensions of warfare patients and seeks to shed a very In Recognition; and Marketing and the experience of battle. diff erent light on this horrifying Department of the Year. Law Lord honoured story and how a community tries The winners will be announced gREg funnELL to cope, 10 years on. at a ceremony at The Royal Sony Award The winners will be revealed Courts of Justice on 7 May. at a gala ceremony at London’s Grosvenor House on 11 May. Law fi nalist HEIST Awards andrea biondi, Professor of European Union Law and Co-Director of the Centre for European Law, was a fi nalist in the Law Teacher of the Year 2009 national competition. This competition, run in association with the UK Centre lord bingham of Cornhill for Legal Education (UKCLE) professor brian hurwitz and sponsored by Oxford lord bingham of Cornhill, the Senior University Press, culminated Lord of Appeal in Ordinary in the A drama documentary The Good with an award ceremony held House of Lords, former member Doctor about Harold Shipman, at UKCLE’s annual conference of the College Council, Fellow of who murdered around 250 of his in January. the College and Commemoration patients, has been nominated for Alison Bone, who presented Orator, is the fi rst recipient of the a Sony Radio Academy Award. this year’s awards, was ‘delighted Onassis Prize in Law. brian hurwitz, D’Oyly Carte Heist – a specialist marketing by the teaching talent that as This prize is administered by Professor of Medicine and the services agency, focusing on a judge I have witnessed this the French Academy on behalf Arts, acted as an adviser to the higher education – runs an year. It’s heartening to see the of the Aristotle Onassis Public production. annual competition, the Heist dedication and commitment Benefi t Foundation. The play, which was aired in Awards, to recognise outstanding that all the fi nalists have The French Academy, September last year by the BBC achievement and reward good demonstrated. I’m pleased established in 1635, is the pre- World Service, came 10 years practice in the marketing of to be part of an award that eminent French learned body after the arrest and subsequent universities and colleges. formally rewards and recognises on matters pertaining to trial of the notorious General King’s has been shortlisted such talent’. the French language. The Practitioner. Written by Mike for: Best Alumni publication: Gary Watt, Associate Professor Aristotle Onassis Public Benefi t Walker, it is interwoven with In Touch; Best Digital media: at the University of Warwick, Foundation is a charitable interviews from the medical USB Graduate Keepwarm; was named Law Teacher of the organisation which grants community and one of Shipman’s Best Fundraising publication: Year 2009. scholarship money and funds

www.kcl.ac.uk | March 2009 | Comment | 11 King’s people

philanthropic projects and a Commission will develop a vision AIB is the most prestigious number of prizes. for public services in 2020. NATO Panel academy in its field and also Lord Bingham is one of the Chaired by Sir Andrew Foster, runs the top academic journal in most senior judges in the UK. Commissioners are drawn from international business, the Journal In 2000 he was made the Senior across the political spectrum, of International Business Studies. Lord of Appeal in Ordinary in local government, academia and Only two other British scholars the House of Lords, the country’s from the public, private and third have been previously elected as highest court of appeal. Lord sectors. The inquiry will run Vice President. Bingham was on the College for 18 months, reporting in the Professor Ghauri will be Council from 1989-93 and was summer of 2010. responsible for the administration conferred with a fellowship of the Professor Wolf specialises in of the academy and provide College in 1992. He delivered the relationship between strategic leadership. This the College’s Commemoration education and the labour market. appointment will also lead to Oration in 2007. joint seminars and conferences between King’s and AIB. appointments Professor Ghauri is Editor in Dr Andrew Dorman Chief for International Business Review and has published more 2020 Commissioner Dr Andrew Dorman, Senior than 20 books. Lecturer in the Defence Alison Wolf, Sir Roy Griffiths Studies Department, has Professor of Public Sector been appointed by the British Linnean Fellow Management, is a Commissioner delegation to NATO as the greg funnell for the 2020 Public Services British representative on NATO’s Trust which is carrying out Advisory Panel on Human a major inquiry into public and Societal Dynamics for the service delivery. next four years. The inquiry will look at how The Panel meets twice a year our public services can respond to decide on allocation of funding to the significant challenges of for NATO on human and societal the next decade. The Professor Alison Wolf dynamics. ‘I feel honoured to be appointed,’ commented Dr Dorman. ‘It reflects my standing New CE for Charity within the field and work on

piers allardyce European security and defence Guy’s and St Thomas’ transformation.’ Charity’s Trustees have recently announced the appointment of Peter Hewitt, AIB appointment former Chief Executive of the Dr Ann P Wood Arts Council, as the new Chief Executive of the Charity. He Dr Ann P Wood, Microbiology will take up the post in June Department, Dental Institute, 2009 following the retirement has been elected as a Fellow of of Geoffrey Shepherd. the Linnean Society. Peter Hewitt led a £1 billion The Linnean Society of lottery funded arts capital London is the world’s oldest programme at the Arts Council active biological society. It was and worked in partnership with founded in 1788 and is based the public and private sectors Peter Hewitt CBE in Burlington House, Piccadilly. to enhance the profile of arts It has a library of approximately in England. He was awarded and the opportunity to invest 40,000 monographs dating a CBE for his achievements in world-class services locally from 1483 to the present, in bringing the arts to a wider in Lambeth and Southwark, including Carl Linnaeus’ own audience in the 2008 Queen’s whilst at the same time acting library, dealing with plant Birthday Honours. as a trailblazer for research, and animal identification and ‘I am very excited to be innovation and learning in Professor Pervez Ghauri classification, evolutionary invited to join the country’s the wider NHS and beyond. biology and the history of largest and leading NHS- The Charity’s commitment Pervez Ghauri, Professor of natural history. related charity,’ said Peter to enhancing the healthcare International Business, has Dr Wood’s work, over Hewitt. ‘What makes it so environment and patient been elected as Vice President several decades, to merit election special for me is the excellent experience through the arts is for the US-based Academy of to the Society has been on legacy that I am inheriting also close to my heart.’ International Business (AIB- bacterial ecology, taxonomy Worldwide) for 2008-10. and phylogeny.

12 | Comment | March 2009 | www.kcl.ac.uk King’s people

be used to commission a musical will compete in the UK final at New Director joins College composition, preferably a choral the Cheltenham Science Festival

greg funnell work, which will be performed on 5 June. The UK NESTA Anne Poulson joined King’s as in the Chapel as part of the 2029 FameLab winner will then the new Director of Academic celebrations. compete in the International Services on 23 February. For more information FameLab Final on 7 June. This new role is to lead the on donating to the College NESTA is the National re-profiled Directorate of contact Alison Thompson Endowment for Science, Academic Services which now ([email protected]). Technology and the Arts – an encompasses the Registry, independent body with a mission Quality Assurance and to make the UK more innovative. Academic Audit, Corporate FameLab More details are available via Services, Equality & Diversity, www.famelab.org If you do apply Research Ethics and the NESTA FameLab 2009 has please let the Public Relations South East London Lifelong launched with the aim of finding Office know by emailing Learning Network. and supporting the most talented [email protected] A key priority is to lead the and passionate communicators FameLab is sponsored by development of a new cohesive Anne Poulson working in science today. Channel 4 and the British Council. strategy for the Directorate, This year there are big prizes drawing upon the Strategic research and national libraries with £10,000 for the winner, Plan and, in collaboration with in the UK and Ireland. £5,000 for the runner-up and Recognising colleagues across the College She worked closely with £750 for the eight finalists. All and Academic Services, HEFCE, JISC and the Russell finalists will receive professional excellence teams will be working in Group executive, as well as training at the NESTA FameLab Two award programmes partnership towards this over international consortia. Prior to MasterClass weekend and recognising excellence in the next few months. this she was the Chief Librarian opportunities to launch their postgraduate supervision and A snapshot of some other at the School of Oriental and science communication careers. teaching are seeking nominations. key areas for the Directorate African Studies and held a There are two ways that The Graduate School this year include the number of previous roles at staff can apply: by submitting recognises and rewards excellence institutional audit, gaining an University College London. a video entry online, examples and innovation in postgraduate understanding of support for ‘I am absolutely delighted are viewable on the FameLab supervision through its the future Research Excellence to be assuming this newly YouTube Channel: www.youtube. Supervisory Excellence Awards. Framework requirements, re-profiled position at a time of com/famelab; or by attending Supervisors can be nominated and implementation of the great opportunity and exciting a regional heat on Saturday by their schools, departments Admissions Portal. challenges for the College,’ says 25 April at the Wellcome or by their Heads of Graduate Anne joins King’s from her Anne. ‘I am looking forward to Collection, London. Studies, as well as by their role as the Executive Director working closely with colleagues Contestants selected from students. Schools will shortlist of Research Libraries UK, across all Schools and the online videos or the live nominees and a Graduate School a membership organisation Directorates as we shape and auditions go through to the selection panel will make one which provides leadership implement the new Academic Regional Final and if successful award per School. and strategy for the leading Services strategy.’ greg funnell

has multi-skilling programmes First female to enable staff to further their careers and have equal handyperson representation,’ comments Ian In January Joanne Imber took up Armitage, Operations Manager. the role of handyperson in the ‘We are very pleased that Directorate of Estates & Facilities Joanne has joined King’s at the Strand Campus. She is the and wish her every success.’ first female to carry out this role. Her responsibilities include staff news carrying out repairs, maintenance, inspection and checking of the College’s building services, Monthly donations plant and equipment. She will also undertake carpentry work Former member of staffS tephen including erecting shelving, Harrow AKC, FKC, has hit upon easing doors, glazing repairs and a novel way of commemorating maintaining ironmongery. the College’s bicentenary in ‘The Directorate aims to 2029. He has set up a fund, into reach out to women who are which he will make monthly interested in this trade and donations. The money will then Joanne Imber at work at the Strand Campus.

www.kcl.ac.uk | March 2009 | Comment | 13 King’s people

obituaries

independent member of the at the College but also began Dr Jennifer Fordham MRC Scientific Staff with her Reg Reed 1938-2009 tutoring evening classes in (Pinder) 1945-2009 own research group. Her name laboratory techniques developing (as Jennifer Pinder) appeared on his skills in photography and kate kirwan many publications, first on the photo-microscopy, which chemistry of nucleic acids and fitted well with his skills in then, when the Unit changed histology and microscope slide course under Maurice Wilkins, preparation. He also gained on the properties of membranes, a qualification in Forensic in particular that of the red Photography skills. blood cell and its associated In 1973 he became Chief proteins. This led to studies of Technician of the Human malarial invasion, and membrane and Environmental Studies function in heart muscle and Department, which was later the hair cells of the inner ear. absorbed into Biomedical Notable publications emerged, & Health Sciences. Reg’s many with collaborators in the photographs were published in College and around the world. It was with great sadness that innumerable scientific papers On retiring from the MRC, the King’s union branch of books and other publications. she was appointed Senior Unite learned of the death of Reg never had a bad word to Research Fellow of the College, retired member Reg Reed on say about any of his colleagues, in which she had been active 3 February 2009. Reg was an his gentle manner and profound throughout. She was an employee of King’s from 1953 thoughtfulness made him a Jennifer (known to all as Jeni) exemplary colleague and mentor. until 2003 missing his 50th pleasure to know. His funeral Fordham died on 7 January Her enthusiasm, cheerfulness anniversary at the College by on 23 February was attended at the age of 64. Jeni was a and generosity endeared her to a matter of days. by large numbers of current prominent member of the all the many colleagues, students Reg had a life-long love of and past King’s employees, Randall Division. She graduated and visitors who came into animals; at 15 he left school who reminisced with great in Botany from Bedford College, contact with her and sought her hoping to be employed by affection about a good and and in 1966 joined the MRC help and advice. London Zoo but there were no truly gentle man. Biophysics Unit, still then under The huge turnout at her vacancies. On 22 August 1953 Reg’s family have set up a Just its founding Director, Sir John humanist funeral was testimony he began his King’s career as a Giving page at www.justgiving. Randall, as a Research Assistant. to the esteem in which Jeni technician; he very soon became com/regdwreed where donations Her talents were quickly was held. Her husband and son a valuable asset to the Zoology may be made to Cancer apparent, and she gained an survive her. An obituary for Department. Research UK in his honour. MPhil and then a PhD. Dr Fordham appeared in The After performing National Glyn Baker, Branch Secretary, She later became an Guardian on 19 February. Service in 1957 Reg remained King’s College London Unite 0032

The selection criteria are: past Nomination forms can be supervisory success, pastoral accessed via the Academic care, personal and professional Registry web pages. development of supervisees; and All nomination forms should innovative supervisory practice. be submitted by 27 March. The The closing date for the winners will be announced in nominations is 30 April. Download June 2009. an application form from the Graduate School website. The Awards for Teaching Staff ordained Excellence, now in their seventh year, give students a chance Three staff have recently to nominate a member or been ordained as Deacons members of staff (who teach in the Church of England: on undergraduate and taught Peter Houghton, Professor of postgraduate programmes) who Pharmacognosy, Jane Elliott, they think should be recognised Postgraduate Programmes From left: Peter Houghton, Jane Elliott and Sue Smith. for their excellent teaching. Administrator, School of Although the scheme will be Dentistry and Sue Smith, Peter is serving as non- stipendiary curate in the parish student driven, it is also possible Programme Leader; BSc stipendiary curate at the Church of St Catherine, Hatcham, and for nominations to be initiated Children’s & Neonatal Nursing of the Ascension Balham Sue is doing the same at the by Heads of Departments. Chair of Accreditation Board. Hill. Jane is working as non- parish of St Mark, Reigate.

14 | Comment | March 2009 | www.kcl.ac.uk Focus

Department of Education & Professional Studies alfredo flavo he Department of Education & Professional Studies is an Tinterdisciplinary Department focusing on the formal and informal processes of teaching and learning; on the construction of knowledge and policy; on the intellectual, emotional, social and spiritual aspects of personal experience and professional development; and on the evolving practices and policy contexts of work in the public, private and other sectors. The Department was established through a merger in the 1980s between the education work carried out at King’s and the newer Department of Education based at Chelsea College. The School of Education, as it was subsequently called, went on to join the newly-formed School of Social Science & Public Policy as the Department of Education & Professional Studies in 2002. Maths PGCE students preparing to become secondary school teachers at the beginning of the academic year. ‘The Department is fully engaged in research, knowledge transfer and teaching Policy, in Education Management, in initiative on maths and science education. in the context of a wide range of schools, English Language Teaching, Child Studies, We were awarded two out of the three funded colleges, religious institutions, professional e-Inclusion and Ministry & Theology. bids, totalling more than £1.4 million, and associations, training organisations and MSc programmes are offered in Health & we’re now carrying out this work, in the areas hospitals,’ explains Head of Department, Society, and in Health Promotion. MRes of assessment in algebra and multiplicative Professor Christopher Winch. programmes are available in Education & reasoning and in science aspirations and career Social Science and in Language, Discourse & choice for pupils aged 10-14.’ Diverse agenda Communication, and give graduates access The programmes provided by the to the latest departmental research. ‘Much of Annual Education Lecture Department reflect its diverse agenda the teaching at master’s level is delivered The Department holds a major annual public and culture of working collaboratively. part-time and in the evenings for teachers and lecture with guest speakers from a variety ‘We offer programmes from sub-degree other professionals working full-time,’ points of backgrounds addressing education in its to doctoral level,’ says Professor Winch. out Professor Winch. broadest sense. Staff and students from across ‘At undergraduate level our student body The Department’s doctoral community is a the College are welcome to attend. On 4 June is largely made up of those on the English strong one, with 110 current PhD students and Steve Jones, Professor of Genetics at UCL, will Language & Communication BA programme, two professional doctorate programmes which discuss science education and evolution, 200 run by the Department’s Language and have more than 100 students between them. years after Darwin’s birth. Previous speakers Literacy Research Group. This offers modules include Chief Rabbi Sir Jonathan Sacks. such as Language & New Media; Language, Research and achievements Culture & Society and Introduction to The Department is a leader in its field, and Recent developments and partnerships Sociolinguistics. We also offer combined is among the country’s three highest-rated ‘The interdisciplinary nature of the undergraduate programmes with education.’ departments for the proportion of 3* and 4* Department has been confirmed in recent A major part of the Department’s rated outputs in the 2008 RAE. ‘Research months,’ Professor Winch adds. ‘The Child teaching portfolio is the Postgraduate infrastructure is organised around seven Studies Programme joined us in September Certificate in Education programme, which research groups,’ explains Dr Jeremy Hodgen, 2008, and a new suite of MA programmes in prepares graduates to become secondary Head of the Research Committee. ‘These theology and ministry has admitted its first school teachers of classics, English, ICT, are: Assessment; the Centre for Public cohort this year. mathematics, modern foreign languages, Policy Research; the Centre for Theology, ‘Other developments include a new religious education and science. The classics Religion & Culture; Language & Literacy; master’s in Educational Assessment, drawing programme is one of only two offered in the Mathematics Education; Psychology & on our ground-breaking research in this area; UK, and students earn credits towards a Cognitive Processes; and Science Education. an MA in e-Inclusion (Learning, Disability & master’s in education while they train to teach. Technology mediated learning is a cross- Technology), and a new MBA in Educational MA, MSc and master’s of research (MRes) cutting theme. Management due to run from 2009.’ programmes are offered. The MA programmes ‘We’ve had considerable success with recent The Department has been steadily are formed around subject-specific teaching, research bids, especially to the Economic and strengthening its overseas activities and links, and are also offered in Education & Public Social Research Council’s targeted research notably with Malaysia and India.

www.kcl.ac.uk | March 2009 | Comment | 15 Flashback How wrong he was... 150 years ago, King’s Professor Thomas Bell let evolution pass him by.

n May 1859 Thomas Bell, Professor of Zoology at King’s, sat down to Isummarise the year’s proceedings of the Linnaean Society, of which he was President. It was not, he said, a year, that had ‘been marked by any of those striking discoveries which at once revolutionise, so to speak, the department of science on which they bear’. Unnoticed in Bell’s account was the event which – with hindsight – was probably the most important ever not only in the history of the Linnaean Society but of biological science in general. This was the presentation of two papers on the evolutionary process by Charles Darwin and Alfred Russel Wallace at a meeting of the Society chaired by Bell on 1 July 1858.

Reptile specimens Admittedly, the reading of the papers (by the Secretary of the Society) was a low- Frontispiece to the second volume of Charles Lyell’s Principles of Geology (London: John Murray, 1830-33) [De Beer Collection, key affair, which came at the end of a long Foyle Special Collections Library QE28 LYE*]. The plate shows Mount Etna. Below: Sir Charles Lyell. session at which neither Darwin nor Wallace was present. Bell, however, was a personal to summarise all the world’s turtles, Elements of Geology (1838), and friend of Darwin’s, and he had already made living and extinct, was illustrated he and Darwin subsequently an important, though indirect, contribution by Edward Lear (better known became close friends. to evolutionary theory by cataloguing and for his nonsense verse, but also In the summer of 1858 describing the preserved reptile specimens one of the finest natural history Wallace wrote to Darwin from Darwin’s travels, published as part of the lithographers of his age). to put forward a theory that Zoology of the Beagle Voyage in 1843. was alarmingly (for Darwin) Nevertheless, the Professor remained hostile Lyell similar to the one Darwin to the theory of evolution throughout his life, The other notable King’s had been cogitating for some and some commentators have suggested that professor connected with 20 years. In order to preserve his unwillingness to permit any discussion of Darwin and evolution was Charles Darwin’s claim on natural selection, Darwin’s and Wallace’s papers that evening Lyell (1797-1875), who was Professor of Lyell and Joseph Hooker arranged for the was due to his strong opposition to such Geology at King’s in 1831-2 when part of joint reading of Darwin’s and Wallace’s works theories. It is, however, more likely that he his (literally) ground-breaking Principles to the Linnean Society meeting that Bell simply did not at this stage recognise the of Geology was published. The first volume chaired. Unlike Bell, Lyell did eventually importance of the message they contained. of Lyell’s work accompanied Darwin in accept Darwin’s evolutionary theory, but not Thomas Bell (1792-1880) had begun his 1831-6 on his famous Beagle voyage to the until several years after the reading of the professional career as Surgeon Dentist to Galapagos Islands and elsewhere, and it was paper, and the publication of On the Origin of Guy’s Hospital and Lecturer on the Anatomy Lyell’s demonstration that the earth must be Species in 1859. & Diseases of the Teeth in the Guy’s Medical billions of years old that allowed Darwin to School from 1817. He is regarded as one develop theories about natural selection based *Sir Gavin de Beer was Director of the Natural of the pioneers of dentistry, who helped to on evolutionary change over hundreds of History Museum in the 1950s and an expert on establish it as a separate branch of medicine. generations. the life and works of Darwin. After he died in He made new and innovative dental At King’s, Lyell had to battle against 1972 his personal library of books by and about instruments, and was the first to treat teeth as orthodox churchmen still endorsing Darwin were sold to Chelsea College, and came living structures by applying scientific surgery Archbishop Ussher’s 17th century to King’s when Chelsea and King’s merged in to dental disease. cosmogony, which placed the creation of 1985. The Collection contains a complete set of Bell was appointed Professor of Zoology at the world with confident precision at nine Darwin’s major publications from the first edition King’s in 1836, while continuing to hold his o’clock in the morning on 23 October, 4004 of On the Origin of Species onwards, all in their dentistry lectureship at Guy’s, and published BC. After giving two series of lectures at original binding, and many of the books that A History of British Quadrupeds in 1837. His the College, Lyell resigned in 1833, using influenced Darwin, including works by Lyell, Monograph of the Testudinata, which aimed the material from the lectures to write his Buffon and others.

16 | Comment | March 2009 | www.kcl.ac.uk Around the College

80s take on Greek comedy

greg funnell The King’s Greek play Lysistrata and even more so once by Aristophanes ran from 11-13 Lysistrata appeared on stage February at the Greenwood as a hybrid between Barbie Theatre. This year’s play was and Working Girl everybody re-imagined in a 1980s context. understood: this was going to be a very different take on ancient Greek comedy. ‘The world’s first ‘Through very hard work bubble gum pop hit and determination, fresh, colourful ideas and a lot of hot in ancient Greek’ pink, the vision of Christina Romanowski took off. The Christina Romanowski, a audience was delighted: not only second-year Classical Studies at the contagious fun radiating and Comparative Literature from all the actors, but also at student, directed the play reading the insightful translation which is about an Athenian on the surtitles. Inflatable trouser- woman, Lysistrata. In the expanders? Neon leg warmers? play the protagonist secretly Expertly used Star Wars summons women from all the merchandising? This production cities of Greece entangled in the had it all – including the world’s Peloponnesian War and tries to first bubble gum pop hit in sway them over into abstinence ancient Greek. from all sexual activity with their ‘When the cast joined hands partners until the men decide to in the last scene, reconciled stop the war. and relieved, a sea of big smiles Dr Dionysios Stathakopoulos, illuminated the audience’s faces. Lecturer in the Department of Euoi, euoi, euai, euai!’ Byzantine & Modern Greek A Greek Play has been Studies and Executive Producer, performed in the ancient comments: ‘From the moment language annually at the Second-year Classics student, Francesca Paterson, as the title character Lysistrata in this the first bars ofGirls Just Want to College in an uninterrupted year’s Greek Play. Have Fun filled the Greenwood tradition since 1953. Exhibition combining ageing with fashion design

lulie biggs The Institute of Psychiatry Professor of Old Age Psychiatry exhibited the results of a public and Director NIHR Biomedical engagement project D&G Research Centre for Mental (Design and Gerontology), Health, gave lectures to students at the MRC Social Genetic to inspire them to design and and Developmental Psychiatry translate ideas into an exciting Centre from 27 January to clothing collection. 12 February. The winning designs went The exhibition was the into production and the garments culmination of a year-long were showcased at a London project, funded by the fashion show. The recent Wellcome Trust, where King’s exhibition presented the finished joined forces with multimedia garments. public engagement specialists Professor Lovestone said: ‘It ActionDog on a project is really difficult to make young combining the science of ageing people interested in science with fashion design. The project because it is complicated but aimed to challenge perceptions these youngsters engaged of ageing and explore what with the complexity in a deep happens to the mind and body and serious way. It would be as people grow older. the most remarkable success Working with two London for this project if some of them ‘Zipped Confusion’ by Isabella Imam. ‘One of my main influences was Alzheimer’s. When you schools, Simon Lovestone, became scientists in the future.’ have Alzheimer’s everything is confused and so I made a dress upside down.’

www.kcl.ac.uk | March 2009 | Comment | 17 Around the College

King’s in the snow oliver perry Nursing partnership

A new education and research we are delighted to be partnering partnership between the Florence with Chelsea and Westminster Nightingale School of Nursing to fulfil our shared education & Midwifery and Chelsea and and research ambitions and to Westminster Hospital NHS produce world-class nurses Foundation Trust was officially and midwives for tomorrow.’ launched recently with an event Andrew MacCallum, at the hospital. Director of Nursing at the Hospital, said: ‘Education and research is an essential part of ‘World-class nurses and how Chelsea and Westminster midwives for tomorrow’ works to provide excellent services and compassionate care for patients. The partnership means that, ‘I am committed to for the first time, undergraduate strengthening the role of nursing nursing and midwifery students and midwifery research in will undertake clinical placements the Trust and providing the at Chelsea and Westminster – best clinical experience and recently voted one of the best learning opportunities for future three hospitals in London and generations of nurses awarded a ‘double excellent’ and midwives. Our new rating by the Healthcare partnership with King’s will Commission for its services enable us to do so.’ and financial management. As part of the collaboration Professor Anne Marie Rafferty, students will also have the Dean of the School, says: opportunity to undertake ‘Nurses increasingly need to placements at Chelsea and embrace a new professionalism Westminster’s west London On Sunday 1 and Monday 2 February the heaviest snow in 18 years fell in the capital. and confidently adopt neighbours, The Royal Marsden There was enough snow for this snowman to be built outside the Maughan Library & practitioner, partner and leader NHS Foundation Trust and Information Services Centre, Chancery Lane. roles in their work. Royal Brompton & Harefield ‘In keeping with this vision, NHS Trust.

News in brief

Demons Research Grants House will be open 24/7 for the & Timetabling Services Office The Maughan Library & ISC The Research Grants and pre-exam period from 23 March (CATS) now has a single phone featured in episode five of ITV’s Contracts function has moved until 5 June. number 1700 (020 7848 1700). supernatural drama, Demons, from King’s Business to This has been implemented to broadcast on 7 February. Stars Professional Services. This Kid British streamline and improve processes Philip Glenister and Zoe Tapper aligns all College administrative Sean Mbaya, James Mayer, and direct enquiries and bookings were filmed in the Round Room support under Ian Creagh, Adio Marchant and Simeon to the relevant specialist areas and walking down the steps from Head of Administration and Mclean, vocalists and lyricists within the CATS office. the main entrance. College Secretary. All contacts from Manchester are up-and- for research support remain coming band Kid British. They A4 folders Duel Day the same. King’s Business will performed single Lost in London Arranging a conference? 26 March will see celebrations continue to work with Schools to students and staff in February Running a course? Present your to mark a dramatic moment and external partners to identify during a busy lunchtime at documents in a customised in King’s history. Duel Day and develop new ideas into Chapters. The set was broadcast King’s folder now available via commemorates a stand-off in practical outcomes to bring on BBC2’s Sound programme the online stationery ordering 1829 between the then Prime societal and economic benefit. last month. service. These folders can be Minister, the Duke of Wellington, used in a wide range of contexts. and the Earl of Winchilsea over 24/7 ISCs CATS number Designed by the Corporate the founding of the College. Following the success of last Following the co-location of the Design Unit they have a handy Events to mark the occasion year, Information Services Room Booking & Timetabling 5mm capacity pocket inside. are held worldwide. To join in Centres at Franklin-Wilkins, Office and the Conference & Visit www.kcl.ac.uk/cardcorp/ contact [email protected] the Maughan and New Hunt’s Vacation Bureau, the Conference to order.

18 | Comment | March 2009 | www.kcl.ac.uk Around the College

art at king’s Procession of the Hours

greg funnell The painting Procession of the Hours is a hidden gem of Guy’s Campus, running the length of the wall in the Henriette Raphael Function Room of Henriette Raphael House. Commissioned by Guy’s Hospital in 1903, artist Florence Eleanor Chaplain, first wife ofWinnie the Pooh illustrator EH Shepard, took a whole year to complete the painting. The painting illustrates the seasons of the year through the procession of maidens. The rise and decline of the year is symbolised by the colour of their garments, which is sombre at the beginning, becomes richer and brighter as spring advances and fades away into greys and browns as autumn turns into winter. This photograph shows a section of the painting. The painting is the property of the Guy’s & St Thomas’ Charity. In this new feature, Comment will highlight art around the College. If there is an interesting piece you'd like to tell us about email [email protected]

Human rights campaigner Study Abroad Awards greg funnell One of Britain’s leading human defender of ethnic groups in rights’ campaigners spoke to Burma. He condemned the one- King’s Catholic Society earlier child policy in China which has this year and told students that led to women suffering forced they can make a difference to abortions and sterilisation in world affairs. some provinces. He also gave his views on abortion and argued against ‘You can make a embryonic stem cell research, difference to world while acknowledging the advances made by adult stem cell research. affairs’ Raising the issues of child mortality and poverty, Lord Lord Alton of Liverpool Alton described these as offences encouraged an audience of more to human dignity. He outlined the than 100 people not to wait until disturbing side-effects of conflicts From left back: Kathleen Scott, Anne Huang, Laura Heiman and Nicholas Gerschman each they are older to oppose the many in places such as the Congo and received £2,500 as the first recipients of a scheme which recognises outstanding study abroad students. [Michelle Wong is absent from the photograph.] Professor Denise Lievesley, offences to human dignity in Darfur and showed pictures Head of the School of Social Sciences & Public Policy, and Dr Jan Palmowski, Head of the today’s world. depicting various human rights School of Arts & Humanities [seated] were present at the awards ceremony. In his lecture Human Dignity, abuses in Burma, North Korea Human Rights, Human Life, Lord and Latin America. The first five winners of a new Study abroad students make Alton drew from his personal Lord Alton was invited to scheme to honour King’s most an important contribution to experience of nearly 30 years speak by Father Joseph Evans, distinguished study abroad the wider College community. in both Houses of Parliament the College’s Catholic priest students in the arts, humanities Through the Awards it is hoped to affirm the right to life as chaplain. For information and social sciences were to encourage more outstanding fundamental to every human and about the Chaplaincy visit presented with their certificates international students to study political community. www.kcl.ac.uk/about/structure/ by the Principal at a ceremony abroad for a semester or an Lord Alton is also an outspoken dean/chaplaincy/ on 28 January. academic year.

www.kcl.ac.uk | March 2009 | Comment | 19 Research

Better breast cancer care Overcoming self-harm

Cutting-edge psycho-social they could A major new £4.5 million study – research undertaken by provide. It SHIFT (Self Harm Intervention, academics at the Florence identified Family Therapy) – has been Nightingale School of Nursing gaps in launched to examine the best & Midwifery is enabling UK information techniques for preventing young charity Breast Cancer Care and support people from self-harming. This to plan better services for groups for breast study involves the Institute of people with breast cancer cancer patients and of Psychiatry (IoP), and the who have traditionally been made recommendations to the universities of Leeds and underserved. charity to improve access. Manchester as well as 15 NHS A grant awarded to Dr Emma Emma Blows notes: ‘As a organisations. Ream enabled the appointment direct result of this project Breast The IoP’s Dr Ivan Eisler, lead of Emma Blows, a Research Cancer Care is able to reach more investigator for the London part Associate at the School, to people and help them access of the project, comments: ‘This is work on the Better Access information and support that will a hugely important study which Better Services project with improve their quality of life after will provide a much needed further supervision from a breast cancer diagnosis.’ evidence base for developing family approach, which focuses Professor Alison Richardson. The study forms part of the effective treatment provisions. on the relationships, roles and This project addressed the Knowledge Transfer Partnership Several smaller studies point to communication patterns between poor uptake of Breast Cancer (KTP) scheme. KTPs, managed family therapy as an effective family members, will enable Care services by certain parts of by King’s Business, are widely treatment in adolescent self-harm families to work with young the community, including older available and aim to encourage but the fact is that we don’t really people to help them manage people and those from black the exchange of knowledge, know what works best. crises and emotional situations and ethnic minority groups. expertise and skills between the ‘This is going to be one of the more effectively.’ Involving an extensive College and industry, commerce largest studies of family therapy More than 800 11-17 year mapping exercise across the UK, and the public sector. King’s or indeed any other psychological olds, who have self-harmed more the study uncovered key findings Business is working to increase treatment ever to be conducted in than once and required hospital regarding patients’ perception the number of KTPs. Contact the UK. Through this study we’ll admission for their injuries, will of cancer charities and the help [email protected] be looking at whether the whole participate in the seven-year trial. Health benefits of almonds Looking at TV and film Dr Lynne Nikolychuk, Lecturer, new relationships along the Researchers in the Nutritional Centre for Cultural, Media & production value chain are Sciences Division have been Creative Industries Research, is changing the organisational looking at the impact of almonds the lead author of Independent landscape. on cardiovascular disease risk Television & Film Production Important components of factors and discovered that Sectors: Exploring New future business development eating almonds may well have Collaborative (Business) Models, appear to hinge on producer significant health benefits. published recently. ingenuity to adapt creative Dr Sarah Berry, who led the This report is part of a pilot and organisational practices, study, comments: ‘This expands project programme, funded and willingness to engage in upon previous cardiovascular by the London Development new network relationships. research by investigating not Agency, to explore potential Protecting intellectual property only how the plant cell wall may were lower after eating a meal methods of useful engagement and competition for emerging impact on how fats are absorbed containing whole almonds (where between SMEs (small and online market space are also into the body, but also the the cell wall structure is intact) medium sized enterprises) important concerns likely to potential impact on acute changes than a meal containing almond oil and research-intensive higher impinge on how these models in triglyceride levels. and sunflower oil where the plant education institutions (HEIs). may prevail. ‘The data suggests that an cell wall structure was removed. It is an account of activities Dr Nikolychuk comments: intact plant cell wall, as found Trigylcerides are the primary underway within the UK’s ‘This project has enabled in whole almonds, may impact form of fat in foods, regardless independent television and film us to demonstrate how two on how much and how quickly of the type of fat (unsaturated or production sectors to depict how media sectors are evolving fat is released into the blood, saturated). Blood triglycerides collaborative (business) models their practices to meet contributing to a lower acute rise normally increase after eating are evolving in response to changing circumstances in an in blood triglyceride levels.’ a meal containing dietary fat. current market conditions. economically demanding time Dr Berry’s group, which Elevated blood triglyceride levels The findings and issues raised whilst aiming to meet their includes Dr Peter Ellis, found that are a risk factor for developing demonstrate how existing and culturally imperative objectives.’ increases in triglyceride levels cardiovascular disease.

20 | Comment | March 2009 | www.kcl.ac.uk Media watch

Evil weed? Religion in society Australian fires Blue Monday

Dr Cathy Fernandes and Alister McGrath, Professor Dr Frank Bongiorno, Senior Professor Mike Isaacs, Dr Zerrin Atakar, Institute of of Theology Education Lecturer, Menzies Centre for Senior Lecturer, Institute Psychiatry, discussed their and Head of Centre for Australian Studies, discussed of Psychiatry, gave BBC1 research into cannabis in the Theology Religion & Culture, his experience of the Ash Newsround viewers tips on BBC2 programme Horizon: commented on the Thought Wednesday bush fires of 1983 beating the blues on the Cannabis – the Evil Weed? for the Day debate on Radio and the role of fires in national ‘saddest Monday of the year’, presented by Dr John Marsden, 4’s PM programme. He also identity on the BBC World 19 January. Institute of Psychiatry. contributed to the 500th Service Newshour programme. edition of Radio 4’s Moral Maze. Byzantium 330-1453 Knife crime P word Dr Dionysios Stathakopoulos, Ben Bowling, Professor of Dementia strategy Pakistanis are not only Lecturer in Byzantine Studies, Criminology & Criminal trying to reclaim the p word, Department of Byzantine & Justice, School of Law, was Sube Banerjee, Professor of some have also hijacked the Modern Greek Studies, was one of the commentators on Mental Health & Ageing, abbreviation of the name of interviewed by North German the BBC1 programme Institute of Psychiatry, the far right British National Radio on Byzantium on the Stabbed – The truth about discussed the Government’s Party. Tony Thorne, Language occasion of the exhibition at knife crime. five-year plan for dealing with expert, commented on BBC the Royal Academy. dementia on the BBC Radio 4 Radio Manchester, BBC Today programme. Radio Bristol and BBC Radio Rolling stones Merseyside. He also appeared First person on BBC1’s The One Show on Radio 4’s Analysis programme Christianity swearing and the liberalising The Principal, Professor Rick looked at transport policy and effect television has had on Trainor, was interviewed for was chaired by Alison Wolf, Emeritus Professor Dame Janet language. Business Voice about university Sir Roy Griffiths Professor Nelson, Department of History, funding and helping businesses of Public Sector Management, appeared on the Channel 4 through the recession. He was Department of Management. programme Dark Ages which Carbon performance also quoted in articles in THE One of the guests was explored how warring pagan and The Independent. Professor Martin Prince, tribes in Britain became one An article in The Guardian’s Head of the Centre for nation under Christianity. Education supplement on Public Mental Health, universities reducing their Star tantrums Institute of Psychiatry. energy spending and their Ireland’s crisis emissions focused on Centre for Cultural, Media & Keith McIntyre, Energy Creative Industries Research Breast cancer unit In 1729, following three Manager, Directorate of Lecturer Dr Harvey G Cohen successive harvest failures, Estates & Facilities. discussed actor Christian Dr Andrew Tutt, Director of Jonathan Swift published his Bale’s swearing in an interview the new Breakthrough Breast infamous A Modest Proposal, for BBC Radio Wales. He Cancer research unit, was recommending state- Healthier pies also spoke about President interviewed regarding the sponsored cannibalism as a Obama’s inauguration on the opening of the new unit and solution to Ireland’s economic Professor Tom Sanders, BBC Radio 5 Live Victoria research on triple negative crisis. Ian McBride, Lecturer in Head of the Nutritional Derbyshire show. breast cancer. This was the Department of History, Sciences Division, appeared reported on BBC London discussed Swift’s gruesome on the Channel 4 Dispatches TV, ITN London Tonight, satire with Melvyn Bragg on programme and commented Sarkozy’s reform IRN, British Satellite News, BBC Radio 4’s In Our Time. on improving economy range BBC London Radio and Sky pies to make them healthier. President Sarkozy’s intention News Radio. to reform the judicial system Obese mums was discussed by Dr Eva Steiner, Children’s asthma Senior Lecturer in French Forensic science The Daily Telegraph, The Law, on BBC Scotland’s Times and BBC News Online A new study into the effect Newsweek Scotland. Dr Barbara Daniel, Senior all reported the findings of of pollution on children’s Lecturer and Programme a study on obese first-time respiratory health in London See www.kcl.ac.uk/headlines Director for the MSc in mothers led by Lucilla Poston, was the topic of discussion for for the latest media coverage Forensic Science, contributed Professor of Maternal & Dr Ian Mudway, Environmental or on Campus noticeboards. to an article in The Guardian’s Fetal Health, Director of Research Group, School of Comment is keen to know Work section on studying an Division of Reproduction & Biomedical & Health Sciences, of any staff featured in the MSc in forensic science. Endocrinology. on BBC London News. media, email [email protected]

www.kcl.ac.uk | March 2009 | Comment | 21 Student news

initiative to increase the amount Student calculator of proactive support and advice History in the making

available to students,’ comments abaca usa/pa photos Since its launch in September Sarah Bell, Advice Manager, last year the KCLSU Student KCLSU. ‘We’re extremely Calculator has had more than pleased with how popular the 3,400 students log on and use calculator has been so far and it. A joint initiative between we hope to increase usage as we KCLSU and the charity continue to develop the site.’ UNIAID, the calculator is designed to help provide students with financial planning skills, Ambassador visits teaching them to manage both their time and money more The Georgian Ambassador Giorgi effectively whilst at university. Badridze visited the College The calculator takes students recently to take part in a step-by-step through their income panel discussion on European and expenditure, providing hints Neighbourhood Policy in the and tips along the way on saving Post-Soviet Space: A New Bone and earning money. As the of EU-Russian Contention? Faraz Mujtaba, a 19-year-old history. A few other scholars calculator was built specifically This was the first public event first-year Computer Science and I camped outside the for King’s students, it also the Ambassador had participated student, was amongst a Capitol building from provides tailored information on in since his official nomination. select number of special guests 02.00 in temperatures of bursaries and scholarships and The event was organised by in Washington DC on 20 minus 20 to make sure we the cost of accommodation. Once students from the European January that witnessed the were right at the front for the a student has completed all the Society in conjunction with the inauguration of Barack Obama ceremony. The swearing in steps, the calculator produces a School of Arts & Humanities as as the 44th President of the itself was quite surreal – we personal budget which may be part of European Week. United States of America on were told that Obama was updated as the year goes on. European Week is an annual the National Mall in wearing a bulletproof suit! The Further developments include event which brings students and Washington DC. atmosphere was like nothing adding hints and tips from the public together with experts His attendance was I’ve ever experienced before students who are already using on issues relating to Europe and part of the University and the crowds were the calculator and allowing them the EU to encourage awareness Presidential Inauguration something else – supposedly to share their budgets on the of European current affairs. Conference, an exclusive event there were an extra two million site, as well as information on This year topics such as the for alumni of the National people in DC for the event. childcare support for students future of EMU in the light of the Youth Leaders Forum. It was undoubtedly a life- with young families. current financial crisis, ‘I felt excited and privileged changing experience which ‘The KCLSU Student and EU climate change policy to witness this moment in I will never forget.’ Calculator is part of a wider were discussed.

Centenary dinner

Nearly 200 current students and alumni, including 17 former presidents of the Union and more than 40 former union officers, came together last month at The Great Hall, Lincoln’s Inn to celebrate the centenary of King’s Collge London Students’ Union. Dinner guests heard speeches from the Principal, Professor Rick Trainor, and KCLSU officers past and present. More than £2,000 was raised for KCLSU volunteering schemes from a raffle drawn by current King’s student Katherine Grainger, the only British woman to win medals at three consecutive Students, alumni, staff and friends of KCLSU and the College joined together for an evening of celebration at Lincoln’s Inn. Olympic Games.

22 | Comment | March 2009 | www.kcl.ac.uk Books

Greenfl y Medical Technology into Regenerating London Land and Nation in England Healthcare and Society Tom Lee, Department of Anatomy & Human Sciences Dr Alex Faulkner, Centre for Professor Rob Imrie, Professor Loretta Dr Paul Readman, Biomedicine & Society Lees and Dr Mike Raco, Cities Department of History Claustrophobic, intense, Group, Department of Geography troubled, these 12 short stories Contemporary healthcare is The land question loomed large hold a fl are to the strange, elusive technological, provided through This book provides a scholarly in late Victorian and Edwardian corners of our world, past and medical devices ranging from yet accessible text about politics, playing a major part present; from the United States the bandage to the bioreactor, contemporary urban regeneration in Conservative, Liberal and of the Gold Rush era to the from the thermometer to the new in London. London, as Labour policymaking: in the Berlin of today, from Victorian regenerative medical therapies. the dominant metropolitan context of concern about the England to the dusty border This book opens up the world centre, not just in the UK but faltering agricultural economy towns and high cities of modern of medical devices to examine also, arguably, worldwide, and the eff ects of large-scale South America. the pathways that shape how is a place where the diverse rural-urban migration, land A young couple’s passionate innovative technologies reach dimensions and complexities of reforms were debated in and out aff air unravels as they wait the patient and clinical user. contemporary urban processes of parliament as never before. anxiously in their hotel room for Focusing on the British NHS in and change are evident. This book off ers the fi rst full- news of a recklessly conceived the context of European Union The sheer size of London, its length study of the relationship drug deal. An academic inherits medical device regulation and entanglement in global relations between Englishness and the a set of diaries detailing her great- national health technology and processes, and the diverse politics of land. It explores the grandfather’s development of a assessment, it brings to light a range of its socio-political and ideas and cultural attitudes bizarre new fi eld of science; an maze of regulation, gatekeeping, cosmopolitan structures, provides that informed political endeavour which has shocking surveillance, politics, industry an important context through positions on the land question, implications for his young strategy, sciences of safety and which to explore the diff erent from paternalist ‘pure squire daughter and unfaithful wife. eff ectiveness, and the roles of ways in which the urban fabric of Conservatism’ to patriotic radical And in Greenfl y, a housebound health professionals and patients. the metropolis is shaped by urban visions of pre-enclosure England: woman is driven to distraction Drawing from the sociology regeneration and its programmes, the author underlines how the by the insects infesting her of medicine and from science policies and outcomes. land question excited political house – putting strain on an and technology studies, the The book is timely because the passion and controversy because already fractured relationship. book introduces new research changing social, economic and it involved contested issues Both dark and playful, this in fi ve technologies: artifi cial political structures of cities are a of national identity, national debut collection shows the hips; blood tests for prostate major concern to government. character and race. infl uence of writers as diverse cancer; infusion pumps; the London’s regeneration is By examining how land as Anton Chekhov and Ian coagulometer; and tissue closely linked to debates about politics functioned as a site for McEwan but has a vision all engineering. globalisation, sustainability, patriotic debate, the book off ers of its own. The book combines governance and community. The fresh insights into the ideological Greenfl y was launched at health services research with book explores the ways in which signifi cance of contemporary The Gordon Museum, Guy’s sociological analysis of linked these terms are entwined with nationalistic discourse, which Campus in February. governance and innovation regeneration politics, policy and in the British context has more The London Magazine has processes, developing new practice. usually been associated with called Greenfl y ‘brilliantly concepts and a framework The use of case material enables war and empire than apparently ambitious’ and The Bookseller for understanding patterns discussion to highlight paradoxes ‘domestic’ issues. ‘beautifully written yet sharp of control and promotion of and contradictions in urban policy In doing so, it argues for the stories’. ‘Fizzing with an energy health technologies. It argues and to evaluate the limits and importance of rural constructions at once dark and playful,’ said that these patterns are specifi c potential of contemporary forms of Englishness in late 19th and the Times Literary Supplement. to the type of technology. of urban regeneration in the city. early 20th-century England. Harvill Secker Palgrave Macmillan Routlege Royal Historical Society

www.kcl.ac.uk | Comment | March 2009 | 23 Books

Three favourite... Places near Waterloo Campus As recommended by Barbara Dahill, Florence Nightingale School of Nursing & Midwifery

Konditor & Cook, 22 Cornwall Road Konditor & Cook is a Waterloo favourite for a pastry treat, tasty soups, a celebratory cake or irresistible chocolates. The chef takes a personal interest in cakes made to your specifi cation and the results have delighted my family. Their purple façade always Contentious Geographies Harold Wilson’s Cold War Neither German nor Pole puts me in a good mood as I approach and the design Dr Michael Goodman, Dr Geraint Hughes, Dr James Bjork, on their trendy carrier bags Department of Geography Department of Defence Studies Department of History guarantees reuse.

The human-environment Harold Wilson’s Cold War analyses This book examines how the The old vic, The Cut relationship is one of the most the Labour government’s inhabitants of one of Europe’s One of the exceptional aspects pressing concerns of the 21st eff orts to promote East-West most densely populated industrial of the Waterloo Campus is its century. Explored through an détente and to improve Anglo- districts managed to defy clear-cut proximity to the Old Vic – one array of critical approaches, Soviet relations from 1964-70, national categorisation, even in the of London’s most beautiful this book brings together case examining a hitherto neglected heyday of nationalising pressures. Victorian theatres. Kevin studies from both the global area of study. At the turn of the 20th Spacey, the artistic director, north and south to present Dr Hughes challenges the century, both the ‘civic national’ can be controversial and his signifi cant cutting-edge research caricature of Harold Wilson’s project of turning inhabitants of picks don’t always appeal to into political ecologies as they rigid subservience to America, Upper Silesia into Germans and the critics. But he is one of relate to multi-form contestations and shows how, as Prime the ‘ethnic national’ project of my favourite actors and a over environments, resources Minister, he proposed to awakening them as Poles both fellow American Londoner, and livelihoods. develop closer contacts with the enjoyed successes. so I can’t resist anything he It examines the confl ict-ridden Soviet leadership, and to foster But this did not result in a neat stars in or directs. governance of the environment co-operation on arms control, sorting out of the population through references to science, confl ict resolution in Vietnam, into national camps. Instead, smaland Coff ee, 13 york Road policy, media and technology. and on East-West trade. Upper Silesians were often found Smaland is easy to miss as it Covering a range of issues, The Labour government is oscillating between national is a bijoux shop around the such as popular discourses of revealed as working to reconcile orientations, sometimes appearing corner from Waterloo Station. environmental ‘collapse’, climate its policy towards the USSR as Germans, sometimes as Poles, Smaland is an historic part of change, water resource struggles, and Warsaw Pact states with sometimes ducking national Sweden and all the baristas and mapping technologies, its alignment with the USA categorisation altogether. are Swedish. Working cheek this edited volume works to and NATO membership; and In this deadlock, it was a by jowl, they are infectiously provide a broad and critical Wilson’s failure to improve diff erent kind of identifi cation – cheery and pride themselves understanding of the narratives relations between the UK and religion – that provided both on remembering the orders and policies more subtly shaping USSR is shown to have been the ideological framework and of regulars. For followers of and being shaped by underlying due both to the impact of crises the social space for Upper Silesia fashion, they wear an eclectic environmental confl icts. in Vietnam, the Middle East to navigate between German mix of trendy garb so it’s Contentious Geographies and Czechoslovakia, which and Polish orientations. a mini fashion show every works to reveal how soured East-West relations, A fi ne-grained, microhistorical morning. It’s a great place to environmental confl icts can be and to the unwillingness of study this book moves beyond start the day. (re)considered and thus (re) the Soviet government to alter local history to address broad opened to enhance eff orts to its fundamentally adversarial questions about the relationship Let us know your three favourite negotiate more sustainable attitude with Britain and other between nationalism, religion things related to a Campus. environments and livelihoods. Western powers. and modernity. Email [email protected] Ashgate Boydell & Brewer The University of Michigan Press

Comment is the College’s regular newsletter, edited by the Public Relations Department and designed by the Corporate Design Unit | Comment is printed on paper produced with 80 per cent recovered fi bre| Articles are welcomed from all members of the College, but please note that the Editor reserves the right to amend articles | Copy for the next issue can be sent to the Internal Communications Offi cer, Public Relations Department (ext 3075), James Clerk Maxwell Building, Waterloo Campus, or emailed to [email protected] by 20 april.

24 | Comment | March 2009 | www.kcl.ac.uk