Top of the Profs Imperial’S New Professors Centre Pages

reporter www.imperial.ac.uk Issue 168 • 11 October 2006

Top of the Profs Imperial’s new professors centre pages

BENCH TO BEDSIDE TOP TEN SUCCESS NHS Trusts set to merge Imperial climbs four with Imperial in UK’s places in THES World first Academic Health University Rankings. Sciences Centre. PAGE 3 PAGE 3 Historian gets fired up on the Queen’s Lawn in brief

New head for Population Biology Georgina Mace, FRS, has been appointed Professor of Conservation Science and Director of the Natural Environment Research Council’s (NERC) Centre for Population Biology. Professor Mace joins Impe- rial from the Zoological Society of London, where she has been Director of Science since 2000. Her new role will see her leading a large team at Silwood Park Campus working on diverse research projects including biodiversity patterns, ecology and evolution.

MRC selects Kennard Deputy Principal of the Faculty of Medicine, Professor Chris Kennard, has been selected for the Council of the Medical Research Council (MRC) by the Science and Innovation Minister, Lord Sainsbury, and will also chair the MRC’s Neuro- science and Mental Health Board. The MRC, which A flaming kettle lit up the Queen’s Lawn this summer when TV science historian Adam Hart-Davis dropped into the College for an afternoon’s filming for his new show,How London Was Built. The renowned science broadcaster watched as Dr Jon Gibbins is publicly funded, aims to improve human health from Mechanical Engineering gave an impressive demonstration of the combustion of coal gas, in the shadow of the Queen’s by supporting research and training scientists to Tower. You can see this edition of How London Was Built on Thursday 2 November at 19.30 on ITV. meet the needs of the health services, the phar- – Danielle Reeves, Communications maceutical and other health-related industries and universities.

Blunt named new Earth Science and Engineering head Wye update Professor Martin Blunt has become the new Head of the Department of Earth Science and Engi- Imperial’s Management Board has confirmed neering. Professor Blunt, whose research interests that the College will not proceed any further include improved oil recovery, carbon dioxide capture and storage, and how to extract low carbon with its investigation into delivering a world energy from fossil fuels, was previously head of class research centre, science hub and associ- the Petroleum Engineering and Rock Mechanics ated housing at its campus in Wye. research group. See the next edition for our feature Since the announcement of the Concordat A word with…Professor Blunt. between Imperial, Ashford Borough Council and Kent County Council in December 2005, New institute adds up the College has been exploring its vision for A new centre focusing on the use of mathematics to sustaining and developing the campus in tackle a host of global challenges has opened at the Wye that could have secured jobs locally and College. The Institute for Mathematical Sciences is a regionally, and led to scientific developments multidisciplinary enterprise applying mathematical understanding and techniques to issues including of global importance. climate change and control of infectious diseases. Having carefully considered all the issues It was opened by Imperial physics alumnus David involved, the project team has concluded that Potter, founder of Psion and inventor of the none of the scenarios for the vision would The College remains committed to the high quality electronic personal organiser, who donated £1.25 represent a wise, viable or desirable invest- teaching that takes place at Wye million to the project. ment of public funds for Imperial and Wye. Deputy Rector, Professor Borysiewicz, includes the highly successful Imperial Higgins leaving for Durham said: “I would personally like to thank the College/University of Kent Applied Business Chris Higgins, Director of the Medical Research people in Wye and surrounding villages, Management undergraduate degree courses, Council Clinical Sciences Centre, will leave the particularly the Parish Council and other Master’s degrees and the Distance Learning College next year to take up the post of Vice elected representatives, for their patience and Programmes. As we stated in December Chancellor at the University of Durham. Professor Higgins’ move takes him back to his alma mater cooperation over the last few months. As I 2005, we will review the arrangements with from where he graduated with a degree in botany said at the first public meeting in January, the University of Kent in 2011. in 1976 and completed his PhD in 1979. He held views of local people would play a signifi- We have no current plans to expand posts at the Universities of Dundee, Oxford and cant part in our decision-making process and research and development at Wye, and we California, Berkeley, before coming to Imperial in I have appreciated the responses that have will not be instigating a search for a replace- 1998, where he took on the role of Director of the been received. ment to the vision project. Any decisions on CSC and Head of the Division of Clinical Sciences. “The College remains committed to future activity at Wye campus will, of course, the high quality teaching that takes place be shared with local residents at the earliest at Wye and we will continue to support opportunity.” academic teaching activity there. This — Wendy Raeside, Communications

www.imperial.ac.uk/reporter reporter 11 October, Issue 168 Game SET and Top ten hit in World University Rankings

Imperial is the ninth best university in the Harvard University is match to Imperial world, according to the latest Times Higher rated as the world’s best Education Supplement table. university, with Cambridge Three students and a member of staff The College is one of only three non-US and Oxford at number two and from Imperial trounced the competition institutions in the top 10 of last week’s World three in the rankings. MIT, which last at this year’s national Science, University Rankings, jumping from thir- year claimed second place, is pushed to Engineering and Technology (SET) teenth in last year’s survey. number four. Student of the Year awards. Welcoming the result, the Rector said: The survey also rates Imperial third in “Above all, this is a tribute to the world class the European top 50, behind Cambridge Gabriel Keeble-Gagnere won Best staff we are able to attract, both academic and and Oxford in first and second place. Mathematics Student, whilst Marc Hull non-academic.” —Abigail Smith, Communications was given the award for Best Information Technology Student and Andreas Kyrtatos picked up the accolade for Best Mechanical Engineering Student. All three students beat Bench to bedside vision moves forward off stiff competition from candidates from some of the UK’s other top universities, Over the summer, the Boards of St Mary’s through a new governance structure formally with only one student from Oxford and two and Hammersmith Hospitals NHS Trusts integrating clinical service delivery, teaching from Cambridge winning similar awards in resolved to pursue a merger to become the and research, by 1 April 2007. This ‘bench other categories. UK’s first Academic Health Sciences Centre to bedside’ approach—the formal integra- Best Mathematics Student winner, 2006 (AHSC) in partnership with Imperial. tion of hospitals with medical education and graduate Gabriel Keeble-Gagnere, also went The goal would be to achieve a merger research institutes—is in place in other parts on to win the top GKN Award for the 2006 of the Trusts and their services, and closer of the world and is yielding improvements Science, Engineering and Technology Student working with Imperial’s Faculty of Medicine and better clinical outcomes for patients. of the Year, and a lecturer from his depart- The decision followed a four- ment, Dr Lynda White, was pronounced month review period and discus- Lecturer of the Year 2006. sions with staff, and Imperial’s Gabriel’s personal tutor Dr Gerald Moore decision to endorse the move said: “I’m delighted that Gabriel has received at its July Council meeting. The these two national awards in recognition of organisations believe the creation all the hard work he put in as a student at of the UK’s first AHSC would Imperial, and in particular for his final year enhance the services provided to maths project on simple groups. He was a patients and promote London’s talented, conscientious student who worked position as a key player in the extremely hard throughout his course. It’s global health market. great to see his outstanding efforts rewarded The merger would be subject at the SET awards.” to staff, patient and public con- Dr Lynda White added: “It’s an honour sultation, plus NHS London and and a privilege to be named Lecturer of the Imperial and two NHS Trusts have resolved to pursue the opportunity to Department of Health approval. Year, and a real success story for mathematics become the UK’s first Academic Health Sciences Centre — Tom Miller, Communications at Imperial for both myself and GabrieI to have been singled out in this way. I’ve been lecturing in statistics at Imperial for 35 years Independence by 2007 now and I still really enjoy the challenge of working with some of the brightest young Imperial’s formal request to withdraw from will be able to choose whether to switch to an mathematicians in the country–it’s won- the University of London was accepted at last Imperial degree. derful to be recognised for the work that I week’s meeting of the University of London Sir Graeme Davies, Vice Chancellor of love doing!” Council. The terms of the withdrawal were the University of London said: “Like any — Danielle Reeves, Communications agreed by the Councils of both institutions other institution, and in keeping with its own during the summer. history, the University of London continues to Imperial expects to become wholly evolve. After nearly 100 years as a member of independent in July 2007, to coincide with the federation, Imperial has now considered its Centenary. It will now apply to the Privy it appropriate to withdraw, while only last Council to make the necessary changes to the year the Central School of Speech and Drama Charter, Statutes and the Medical Act. successfully sought membership”. The first students to register for an Rector, Sir Richard Sykes, said: “This is a Imperial degree will be postgraduates major step on our road to full independence beginning their course in October 2007, with and I’m particularly pleased that we are able the first undergraduates enrolling for an to manage it in time for our 100th birthday. Imperial degree in October 2008. All con- My thanks go to the University of London tinuing students registered for a University for their cooperation.” of London degree at the time of withdrawal — Abigail Smith, Communications Imperial’s Gabriele Keeble-Gagnere is named Student of the Year.

11 October, Issue 168 reporter www.imperial.ac.uk/reporter media mentions > Sign up for Imperial news Join our mailing lists that bring regular Imperial news, information and website alerts —Abigail Smith, Communications to all subscribers. To sign up, please visit: http://www.imperial.ac.uk/P2291.htm The Scotsman 11.08.06 and Anaesthetics, the 61-year-old showman Scary liquids can escape screening could find that shaking his booty to hits such The liquid explosives, thought to be at the centre as Copacabana is the key to a healthy old age. of this summer’s airline security scare, would Commenting in The Guardian that dancing is was going to be much more ambitious, but it has be easy to make or obtain, according to Pro- very good for the elderly because it keeps bones had to be scaled down because of costs and is fessor Hans Michels, Chemical Engineering and strong and the heart active, Professor Cobb says: now a shadow of its former intention.” Chemical Technology. Explaining in The Scotsman “One should encourage dancing. Professional why airlines were banning all liquids on dancers are extraordinarily fit.” board aeroplanes, he says of the explo- The Guardian 18.09.06 sive: “It can be colourless, pale yellow or brown, but you can add colour to The long and the short of penis The Financial Times 12.09.06 make it resemble anything you like, transplantation such as fizzy drinks or even baby food. Space Station lift off was a let down The world’s first penis transplant has been hailed In a handbag under an X-ray machine, The scientific worth of the International Space as a surgical success, despite being subse- it would just appear that you were car- Station was put under the microscope again quently removed because its recipient, a man rying a harmless liquid; there would be this summer, when the space shuttle Atlantis in China, experienced psychological difficulties no way of picking it up.” docked to deliver new in adjusting to it. Transplant expert Professor equipment. Among Andrew George, Medicine, is not surprised that critics disappointed the procedure succeeded. “Doing a penis trans- by what the station plant should be no more complex than anything The Guardian 09.08.06 has achieved is Pro- else,” he comments in The Guardian. “But it Are you dancing? Barry’s asking fessor Andre Balogh, takes time for nerve sensations to kick in and it’s Despite undergoing hip surgery, Barry Manilow Physics, who tells not clear whether the patient would ever be able should not think about hanging up his dancing the Financial Times: to have sex with it. The question is whether it’s shoes just yet. According to Professor Justin “When it was first con- right to be doing a transplant for what may be Cobb, Surgery, Oncology, Reproductive Biology ceived in the 1990s, it seen as cosmetic reasons.”

Generating Genius in the community

An exciting new project aimed at raising and to nurture talent in the community. to a panel made up of Imperial academics aspiration and achievement among Afro- A group of 25 boys aged 12 and 13, from and representatives from the funding bodies, Caribbean teenage boys was launched at London and the south, spent three action- the Learning Trust and the Sutton Trust. Imperial College in August adding to the packed weeks at the College under the Dr Tony Sewell, Chief Executive of the College’s sizeable summer school pro- Generating Genius scheme, gaining hands-on Generating Genius project explained: “The gramme. The scheme aims to provide incen- experience of science, engineering and medi- programme was started by myself in 2005, in tives for the teenagers, often from failing cine. This innovative scheme is supported response to the lack of black British students schools, to pursue their passion for science by Imperial College, the charity Generating present in our top universities. I wanted Genius and Exscitec. to change this and also make a difference Over the next five years amongst boys who were clearly brilliant at the group will return to science but were never chosen for special Imperial and other institu- attention. Imperial should feel proud that tions every summer to they are partners in this innovative venture.” build on their skills and, “The boys loved the competitive element as they get older, receive and responded well to being stretched,” help with preparing for added Dr Mark Richards, Physics, who was university. the academic coordinator for the project and The summer school is an active member of the Imperial as One was divided up into three BME group at the College, which raises the strands: chemistry, robotics profile of equality issues and ensures equal and engineering, and representation. life sciences. Activities Feedback from the group was very included lectures and positive, one boy commented: “I have learnt experiments. At the end of more than I would learn in school in a whole each week each group of year during this scheme.” Richard Palfrey the robotics course leader (right) lends his expertise to Generating boys presented their work — Naomi Weston, Communications Genius participants

www.imperial.ac.uk/reporter reporter 11 October, Issue 168 Innovative flotation at the same price as institutional investors and contributed £1 million towards the gross Imperial Innovations, the technology com- proceeds. mercialisation company majority owned The proceeds will allow Imperial by Imperial College, admitted its shares to Innovations to invest to a greater level in trading on AIM on 31 July 2006. more early stage spin-out companies from The company raised £26 million at flota- the College. The company will also have the tion, the first undertaken by a university- flexibility to work with other external invest- based technology transfer company in the ment partners, companies and entrepreneurs. UK. A public offer enabled staff to buy shares Imperial Innovations was established by Imperial College in 1986 to realise the full commercial potential of its research. Since then, the company has concluded over 100 intellectual property agreements arising from the College’s research activity and currently has equity holdings in 58 spin-out companies. Sir Richard Sykes, Rector of the College, said: “Our universities are powerhouses of innovation and it is vital for the UK’s economy that we get our best ideas out of the laboratory and into the marketplace quickly. Imperial College is world renowned for car- rying out leading edge research, and Imperial Innovations has a track record of making this Sir Richard lays the final piece of concrete in research commercially viable. The flotation Imperial’s new student accommodation will provide Imperial Innovations with the capital to go on to develop its business further and that in turn will feed back into devel- Southside halls a oping the College’s intellectual property.” — Caroline Gaulter, Communications step closer Imperial’s new Southside halls of residence in Prince’s Gardens took a further step to A fresh outlook on completion with the ‘topping out’ ceremony that took place last week. Fifty-year bond accommodation The Rector laid the final piece of concrete and planted a sprig of yew to bring Imperial has taken out a £50 million private good fortune to those who use the building. placement to support its world class teaching Explaining that this event celebrates a and research. milestone in the development of these new The unsecured funding, borrowed on a 50- state-of-the-art halls he explained: year term, will support the College’s academic mission, as well as providing capital for new “These new halls of residence will student facilities and other estate projects. reinforce Imperial’s position as a leading With a highly competitive cost of funds residential university attracting high quality (below five per cent), the private placement students and staff to whom access to good demonstrates the value placed on the College quality affordable accommodation is key, by the financial markets. It provides the College especially in central London. This project is with a pool of freely disposable capital to invest the largest ever taken on by Imperial with at its discretion, and means the College is College funds, and our project time scale is not wholly reactive to changes in the external tight—we want students commencing their funding environment. studies in the autumn of 2007, the College’s The Rector said: “We are borrowing these Centenary year, to enjoy the benefits of this funds from a position of financial strength. Universities are not businesses, but they must new accommodation.” still be managed according to a sound financial The project forms part of a scheme strategy. The fact that we have received this loan to enhance the environment of Prince’s on such favourable terms is a good sign that at Gardens, with the outdated accommodation Imperial we are doing just that.” replaced with two new buildings that are in The College’s total borrowing facilities now keeping with the original sense of the area. amount to £173 million, following financings — Naomi Weston, Communications arranged in 2003 and 2005. — Abigail Smith, Communications Last month saw busy scenes in Evelyn Gardens as Imperial • Visit http://ichelix1.cc.ic.ac.uk/ramgen/ freshers moved into their halls of residence. This year around mediaspool/events/southside_topping_out.rm 3,000 students will be living in Imperial or University accommodation. to watch a video of the event.

11 October, Issue 168 reporter www.imperial.ac.uk/reporter summer news highlights summer news highlights summer news highlights summer news highlights summer news highlights summer news highlights summer news highlights

in brief Imperial’s rock stars

Asteroids in orbit between Mars and Jupiter the future it will probably become an Amor, Tokyo collaboration have gained a new identity over the summer a Mars-crosser. Around 50 per cent of these The President of the University of Tokyo, Professor after being named after three Imperial collide with the red planet. My seven kilome- Hiroshi Komiyama, visited Imperial at the end of meteorite experts. Drs Phil Bland, Matthew tres of prime asteroid real estate could turn September to seal an agreement for collaboration Genge and Mark Sephton are among around into a hole in the Martian surface. Even worse between the two universities in research, education and training. Professor Komiyama and the Rector fifty scientists honoured by the International it might survive to become an Earth-crosser signed an agreement that provides an opportunity Astronomical Union (IAU) at the recent in a few million years, and prompt an impact for both institutions to work together leading to annual meeting of the Meteoritical Society. scare. Imagine the headline ‘Mattgenge fails cooperation in a number of fields. The signing of The IAU bestows asteroid names on to make an impact’ as an epitaph.” the agreement was followed by a planetary scientists once every three years, Dr Mark Sephton, whose work on the joint two-day symposium on climate in recognition of their contributions to the organic molecules within meteorites was change, involving researchers from discipline. honoured, said: “My kids are going to love both institutions as well as speakers from industry. The asteroids are all main belt asteroids, this. With the name ‘Sephton’ that makes left over from the formation of the solar 7552 a family asteroid, although it’s a bit far system. The designation of these bodies is away to make a decent holiday home.” A magnetic event now: 6580 Philbland, 6626 Mattgenge, and — Laura Gallagher, Communications A world class, cross faculty centre for Nuclear 7552 Sephton. Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and the Dr Phil Bland, honoured for his work complementary Waters Laboratory of Molecular on the origins of the solar system and on Spectroscopy were both launched at Imperial last month. The new £5 million, SRIF-funded NMR impacts, said: “It’s funny to think there’s facility features an extremely powerful shielded a four-kilometre-wide rock out there with magnet. The Waters Laboratory contains high- my name on it. Having studied impacts, I end equipment for mass spectroscopy, which will somehow can’t help but hope that it might complement NMR facility’s work on collide with something—preferably Mars defining the structure of molecules. or the Moon rather than the Earth. It would The lab is named after the US Waters make a big bang.” Corporation, which has funded $1 million spectroscopy equipment for In contrast to Dr Bland, Dr Genge, the lab. honoured for his work on micrometeorites, • You can follow the orbits of your favourite is worried about collisions. He said: “6626 researcher using the virtual orbit visualisation Mattgenge is already coming quite close to tool of NASA’s Near Earth Object Programme at Addressing animal testing Mars. The orbits of asteroids change and in http://neo.jpl.nasa.gov/orbits/. Two research teams from Imperial will develop new ways to reduce the use and suffering of animals in medical testing, thanks to new grants announced in July. The annual grant round of the National Centre for the Replacement, Refinement and Reduc- Energy Futures Lab links with Abu Dhabi tion of Animals in Research (NC3Rs) has made awards totalling over £300,000 to Dr Al Masdar (The Source) is an exciting new initia- randum of Understanding (MoU) to develop Michael Emerson from the Division of tive that will see the development of world class the research network and to explore potential Biomedical Sciences, and Professor research, teaching and commercialisation of new research projects. The Imperial delegation Sian Harding and Dr Nadire N. Ali of sustainable energy technologies in Abu Dhabi. included Dr Tidu Maini, Pro Rector for Corporate Imperial’s National Heart and Lung It will successfully build local capacity and meet Development, Professor Nigel Brandon, Executive Institute. regional strategic objectives for economic growth Director of the Energy Futures Lab, Dr Tariq Ali, and environmental control, and the development Paul Docx and Omar Cheema. Imperial is joined Opening the gates for HIV vaccine of local human capital. in this process by RWTH Aachen, which together The Gates Foundation announced 16 grants totaling In a significant early step to launchingAl with Imperial forms part of the IDEA league. $287 million over the summer to create an inter- Masdar, a delegation from Imperial representing Signing the MoU on behalf of Imperial, Dr national network of highly collaborative research the Energy Futures Lab has signed a Memo- Maini said “The College’s research strategic consortia focused on accelerating the pace of HIV mission has at its centre the three key areas of vaccine development. The grants will bring together more than 165 investigators from 19 coun- energy, environment and healthcare. We will tries. Imperial’s Dr Steven Patterson has received bring to the project our deep technical skills and $9.2 million for his consortium which extensive experience in multidisciplinary sciences will work to address a potentially to tackle the important and ambitious challenge major shortcoming of the leading of solving the problem of carbon emission reduc- vaccine approach for eliciting cellular tion that faces the world community.” immunity to HIV. Dr Patterson’s con- The event in Abu Dhabi was presided over sortium will also focus on testing a system for delivering an HIV vaccine by the Crown Prince, his Highness Sheikh by skin patch. Mohammed and attended by senior representatives from many international energy companies. Tidu Maini meets His Highness Sheikh Suroor Bin — Abigail Smith, Communications Mohammed Al Nayan

www.imperial.ac.uk/reporter reporter 11 October, Issue 168 summer news highlights summer news highlights summer news highlights summer news highlights summer news highlights summer news highlights summer news highlights

Initiative to tackle neglected diseases Size doesn’t

A new collaborative programme to reduce the impact of neglected tropical matter diseases in developing countries was launched in September. Imperial The evolution of miniature or ‘dwarf’ ver- College is one of the partners in the pro- sions of animals like elephants and hippos gramme funded by the US Agency for on islands is caused by lack of competition International Development (USAID). for food and the absence of predators, and The scheme aims to treat more than 40 not just because they are too large for their million people annually for five years. habitats, new research has claimed. The project is one of the first large The study, published in last month’s scale efforts to integrate existing issue of the journal Evolution, examines the disease-specific treatment programmes phenomenon of the ‘island rule’, which states that currently treat millions of the that large mammals on islands evolve to be world’s poorest people. Professor Fenwick presented the Minister of Health with keys to a Toyota significantly smaller than their counterparts Under the terms of the coopera- Hilux and 17 motorcycles to support drug delivery to rural areas living on large continental land masses. tive agreement, worth $100 million, US The researchers examined the fossilised research organisation RTI will lead a team work in improving the health of the poor that includes the Schistosomiasis Control in Niger. Initiative (SCI) at Imperial. the SCI, led by Professor Fenwick received his medal, the Professor Alan Fenwick, Department of Ministry’s highest honour, at the opening of a Infectious Disease Epidemiology, aims to new laboratory and office space for neglected assist countries in sub-Saharan Africa to tropical disease programmes in Niger. control the parasitic disease schistosomiasis At the event, Professor Fenwick pre- and intestinal worm infections. sented the Minister of Health with keys to a new Toyota Hilux and 17 motorcycles for Ministry’s highest honour Niger’s National Schistosomiasis and Soil In addition, Professor Fenwick received Transmitted Helminth Control Programme a gold medal for services to health from (PNLBG), to support delivery of drugs to Niger’s Minister of Health on 29 September. rural areas. Millions of years ago elephants living on islands evolved to be The medal recognises Professor Fenwick’s — Laura Gallagher, Communications much smaller than their modern day cousins

remains of small elephants and other min- iaturised mammals living on various sized At the heart Mediterranean islands in the Pleistocene and Holocene epochs, between 1.8 million and 4,500 years ago. Their findings suggest of it that this evolutionary tendency is caused by the specific way that predators, prey Two Imperial cardiology and competitors for food interact in island experts from the National Heart ecosystems. They also found evidence that and Lung Institute were hon- miniaturisation occurs for distinctly dif- oured at the World Congress ferent reasons in carnivores and herbivores, of Cardiology in Barcelona in and that herbivores are more dramatically September. affected by the phenomenon. Kim Fox, Professor of Clinical Imperial’s Dr Shai Meiri from the NERC Cardiology, was elected President Centre for Population Biology, one of the of the European Society of researchers, said: “Our study has shown Cardiology (ESC), which rep- that large mammals do not simply ‘shrink’ resents more than 45,000 cardi- in response to the small size of their island ologists across Europe and the homes. By comparing fossils of elephants Mediterranean. Its mission is to Professor Sir Magdi Yacoub has been awarded the Gold Medal of the ESC from a number of islands of various sizes, reduce the impact of cardiovas- we saw clearly that species’ miniaturisa- cular disease in Europe. for me to receive the Gold Medal of the tion did not occur relative to the size of the Sir Magdi Yacoub (pictured), Professor European Society of Cardiology. I am con- island they inhabited. The complex interac- of Cardiothoracic Surgery, was awarded the scious of the great privilege of being able to tion between mammals, their food and their Gold Medal of the ESC for his contributions work for cardiac surgery, which entails being competitors drives the evolutionary process, to cardiology. Just one such award is made so close to the community both locally and allowing mammals, particularly herbivores, every year. globally as well as to science. For all that, I to minimise their size whilst maximising Professor Sir Magdi said: “It is a great remain in awe. “ their reproductive effort.” honour as well as a humbling experience — Laura Gallagher, Communications — Danielle Reeves, Communications

11 October, Issue 168 reporter www.imperial.ac.uk/reporter Sergei Kazarian Julian Bommer Bassam Izzuddin John Cosgrove Robert Hill Professor of Physical Chemistry, Professor of Earthquake Risk Professor of Computational Professor of Structural Geology, Professor of Biomaterials, Chemical Engineering and Assessment, Civil and Structural Mechanics, Civil and Earth Science and Engineering Materials Chemical Technology Environmental Engineering Environmental Engineering

Kamran Nikbin Alfried Vogler Nigel Gooderham Elaine Holmes Andrew Dorward RAE/BE Professor of Structural Professor of Molecular Professor of Molecular Toxicology, Professor of Chemical Biology, Professor of Development Integrity, Mechanical Engineering Systematics, Biology Biomedical Sciences Biomedical Sciences Economics, Centre for Environmental Policy

Jimmy Bell Niall Dillon Joanne Webster Christoph Tang Tracy Hussell Professor of Biochemistry, Professor of Molecular Genetics, Professor of Parasite Professor of Infectious Diseases, Professor of Inflammatory Disease, Clinical Sciences Clinical Sciences Epidemiology, Epidemiology, Investigative Science Kennedy Institute of Public Health and Primary Care Rheumatology New professors take centre stage

“I first came to Imperial in 1999. Prior to that, I “I first came to Imperial when I was just 17, worked as a clinician in the NHS. I also held the as a new undergraduate. I have managed to position of Associate Dean for Postgraduate escape for two short periods since then—three Medicine at the University of London and years in Cambridge for my PhD in the 1980s, spent some time working at Health Systems and a couple of years of postdoctoral work at Resource Centre of the UK Department for Queen Mary College in the 1990s. But I have International Development with responsibility now given up trying to escape the pull of the for Europe and Central Asia. long, invisible bungee by which I seem to be Rifat Atun It’s clearly a great privilege to be made Murray Shanahan attached to the Queen’s Tower. Professor of International Health a professor, especially by somewhere like Professor of Cognitive Robotics, I’m very pleased to become a professor, of Management, Imperial and I’m looking forward to closer Computing course. But what really matters is the research Tanaka Business School research collaboration with colleagues in with you do, not the title people give you. I hope other departments. we’re not too far from the ideal world in which the title is a true reflection of the The international focus of my research makes it very diverse and interesting and I value of a person’s research. very much enjoy the multidisciplinary aspect. The issues we explore, for example The best moments in research are when you get a flash of inspiration into HIV and Tuberculosis, are of global importance and through our research findings we something deep and important. In my field, this would be some sort of insight into have the chance to engage with senior policy makers and make a real difference in the nature of human cognition. But there’s a huge gap between thinking you’ve the countries we work in. Being an ex-clinician in a business school environment understood something and demonstrating that you’re right. That’s where the hard means I can look at issues from a management perspective and hopefully offer a graft comes in, which for me is a matter of building computer and robot models. And fresh approach to analysing and addressing problems. often you turn out to be wrong after all, of course. In the future I would like to see further growth of our research themes. First, ana- Our understanding of the biological basis of cognition and consciousness is lysis of how health systems and contextual factors influence the uptake and diffusion slowly deepening. The computing power available to model and study these things of complex health innovations, and second how we can better use new technologies continues to increase. And the robot hardware we can use as an experimental in different countries of the world to enhance delivery of healthcare services. I hope platform is becoming ever more sophisticated, with low-cost humanoids not far off. to expand my research team and strengthen my links with other centres of research I think putting these three things together will make the next couple of decades very excellence who work in my field, particularly in Europe, the US and Japan.” interesting indeed.”

www.imperial.ac.uk/reporter reporter 11 October, Issue 168 Peter Taylor Robert Elkeles Mark Thursz David Taube Clare Lloyd Professor of Experimental Professor of Diabetic Medicine, Professor of Hepatology, Professor of Transplant Medicine, Professor of Respiratory Rheumatology, Kennedy Institute Medicine Medicine Medicine Immunology, National Heart and of Rheumatology Lung Institute

Petros Nihoyannopoulos Sussan Nourshargh Eric Aboagye Simak Ali Nicholas Long Professor of Cardiology, National Professor of Immunopharma- Professor of Cancer Pharmacology Professor of Molecular Endocrine Professor of Applied Synthetic Heart and Lung Institute cology, National Heart and Lung and Molecular Imaging, Surgery, Oncology, Surgery, Oncology, Repro- Chemistry, Chemistry Institute Oncology, Reproductive Biology and ductive Biology and Anaesthetics Anaesthetics

Paul Dauncey Sergey Lebedev João Magueijo Darren Crowdy Professor of Physics, Professor of Plasma Physics, Professor of Physics, Professor of Applied Mathematics, Physics Physics Physics Mathematics

“I started as a postdoc in the Physics Department 17 “I originally went to work in the years ago as the first ‘Greenpeace Fellow’, working with Department of Respiratory Medicine Professor Keith Barnham on a new type of solar cell. at Charing Cross Hospital Medical With a few breaks, I have been here, researching new School in 1980. Following the merger materials for solar energy conversion, ever since. with Imperial College I moved to the Becoming a professor hasn’t quite sunk in yet. I lost National Heart and Lung Institute my boyfriend Thomas in a road accident over a year in 2000. ago and, since then, everything that happens feels as Obviously I’m pleased to be made Jenny Nelson though it is happening to somebody else. But when the Terry Tetley a professor, not just for myself Professor of Physics, news was announced publicly I was really moved by Professor of Lung Cell Biology, but for all the people I’ve worked Physics the nice messages from colleagues and friends. I owe National Heart and Lung Institute for, and those who have worked special thanks to my collaborators Professor James with me, as they have contributed Durrant and Professor Donal Bradley. Also to my head of group Professor Gareth Parry and to my success. My family are also delighted; they have supported me my cousin Sarah who persuaded me to apply for promotion. I can’t get used to the title throughout. I feel a huge sense of achievement and it is gratifying that my though; I still think Professor J. Nelson is my mum! research effort and teaching have been recognised in this way. I work on the application of molecular electronic materials to solar energy conversion. I have been very fortunate to work in a clinical setting, collaborating The field is exciting because the conversion of sunlight into electricity has such enormous with clinicians and surgeons, with access to human material, to develop potential, whilst a lot of fundamental research remains to be done to understand these unique in vitro models to investigate the intricate mechanisms involved new materials. The combination of a compelling motivation and the potential for important in pulmonary inflammation. The merger with Imperial has opened many scientific discoveries has attracted some really outstanding students and young researchers other interesting, multidisciplinary opportunities and collaborations. to the field. I have been privileged to work with them. In the future I would really like to dissect out the important cellular mech- When I started at Imperial, no conventional funding agencies were interested in anisms involved in the inflammatory and immune responses of the lung to solar energy materials research in the UK. Nowadays, with the increasingly urgent need inhaled toxicants, e.g. tobacco smoke, nanoparticles, micro-organisms, so to find sustainable sources of energy, energy research has become a high priority. In the we can identify therapeutic targets.” future I anticipate a much stronger focus on direct application of our materials to power generation.”

What does it mean to be a Dean? MEP learns about

Professor Jeff Kramer in the Department of Computing is the new Dean for the Faculty of Engineering and the Business School, taking MRSA over from Professor Dick Kitney in Bioengineering, who becomes the Senior Dean. Professor Jackie de Belleroche in the Department of July saw John Bowis, Conservative MEP for Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience is the new Dean for the Faculty London, visit Imperial as part of the Royal of Medicine (Non-Clinical). Society’s MEP–Scientist Pairing Scheme. The College has six Deans, who are Professors elected by senior John Bowis met with Dr Mark Enright, an academic members of the area which they represent. They act on expert in MRSA, to find out what scientists behalf of their colleagues as spokespeople for academic opinion do. As part of the scheme, Dr Enright has and they chair the appropriate Studies Committees in their area. also been to Brussels to gain a better under- Laura Gallagher met Professors Kramer and de Belleroche to standing of the political process. find out what their new role means to them. As well as discussing how scientists work and what they do day to day, Dr Enright also explained what MRSA is, and What are you hoping to bring to your how he hopes to use his research at Imperial new role? to tackle it. He said: JK—I have been at the College for over “Science and politics can often seem at 30 years in almost every possible role, from opposite ends of the spectrum, with little in student to Professor and from Director of common. However because of the compli- Studies to Head of Department. I hope that Professor de cated nature of problems such as MRSA, a this breadth of experience of academic life Belleroche (above) combined approach between policy makers and Professor here, tempered by a sense of humour in Kramer (right) take and scientists will prove essential. Schemes dealing with everyone, will provide me with on new roles as such as this one... can make a huge difference the right background for the job. I like new College Deans in bridging this divide, and hopefully help roles and interesting challenges, so enthu- provide better solutions.” siasm is probably another characteristic that I John Bowis is the Conservative MEP would hope to contribute. Centre between St Mary’s and Hammersmith for London and the party’s spokesman JdB—I come to this position with substan- Hospitals NHS Trusts and Imperial, the on Health and Consumer Affairs in the tial experience and a strong commitment to consolidation of research and teaching on the European Parliament. He serves on the teaching and research in medicine especially Hammersmith Campus with “state of the art” Parliament’s Environment, Public Health in the area of neuroscience. I have had the facilities and the ongoing development of new and Food Safety Committee as well as the chance to engage in a number of international strategic initiatives in research and teaching Development Committee. collaborations both in academia in Europe taking place on all College campuses. The MEP-Scientist Pairing Scheme aims and the US and with industry in the UK to give scientists better awareness of policy- and most recently in India and I think that What part of your new role do you expect to making at the European level. It also helps this provides a valuable perspective of what find the most challenging? parliamentarians understand the scientific can be achieved in research and potentially JK—A major challenge in Engineering is process by facilitating access for MEPs to a translated to treatment. In my new role as to encourage more students into our disci- network of young research scientists. It is representative of the academic community, pline, and to recognise the excitement that hoped this will help to bring high quality sci- I hope to facilitate and support the success it offers. The quality of our academic staff entific advice into EU policy discussions and of the College as a world leader in scientific is clearly critical. Appointments and pro- contribute to wider public understanding of achievement. motions are key processes in finding and the EU and its institutions. retaining good people. I look forward to — Tony Stephenson, Communications What, for you, will be the most interesting gaining greater insight into the promotions aspect of it? and appointments process across the College, JK—The main responsibility of a Dean is but recognise that a major challenge will be to maintain our high academic standards and in dealing with subjects about which I know to preserve our academic ethos across the nothing. College. What exactly this means and how it JdB—I know that this will be an active can be achieved is still a mystery to me. I look and challenging time, which will include a forward to discovering all the aspects that highly significant period in the history of the contribute to our standards and ethos, and in College with the celebration of its Centenary, trying to formulate ways in which these may but that is also what is most appealing about be improved. the position and I look forward to meeting JdB—This is a very active phase in the challenges. strategic development within the Faculty — Laura Gallagher, Communications of Medicine with the move towards the formation of an Academic Health Sciences

Imperial’s Mark Enright (right) enlightens MEP John Bowis on all things MRSA

10 www.imperial.ac.uk/reporter reporter 11 October, Issue 168 summer news highlights summer news highlights summer news highlights summer news highlights summer news highlights summer news highlights summer news highlights

Thumbs-up from students Awards and honours

Imperial scores highly with its Professor Rees Rawlings, Pro Rector, Fellowship for Darzi students, according to a countrywide Educational Quality, said: Professor Sir Ara Darzi has been awarded a Fellow- student feedback scheme published “We take student feedback ship ad homimen by the Royal College of Surgeons of this summer. very seriously so it’s great to get Edinburgh for his pioneering work in surgery. Sir Ara, The results of the National this result, especially as we know Head of the Division of Surgery, Oncology, Reproduc- Student Survey show that the Imperial students are rightly tive Biology and Anaesthetics at Imperial, is one of the UK’s leading surgeons in the field of minimally College has a strong overall satisfac- demanding about the quality of invasive and robot assisted surgery, having pioneered tion score with a result above the experience they get here.” many new techniques and technologies. average for the sector. In addition to taking part in the Provision of learning resources, National Student Survey, Imperial Barber receives Wheland Medal which includes library services, IT carries out its own detailed online Professor Jim Barber, FRS, of the Division of Molecular Biosciences, has resources and specialised equip- evaluation of students’ experiences. received the prestigious Wheland Medal and Award from the University ment, is a particular strength, with This scheme, praised in recent of Chicago. The medal, awarded every two years, recognises interna- Imperial receiving the top score in Quality Assurance Agency reviews, tional outstanding contributions to chemistry. It is given to Professor the country. Organisation and man- allows departments to respond Barber in acknowledgement of his 40-year career researching photo- synthesis and the way that plants use sunlight to split water into its agement, covering issues such as the directly to specific feedback. External component parts: oxygen and hydrogen. timetabling of courses, is also rated reviewers also carry out large scale highly by students, with feedback reviews every five years in each EPSRC Research Fellowships placing it in the national top 10. department. Energy Futures Lab director and fuel cells expert, The National Student Survey, Professor Nigel Brandon, has been appointed as the carried out for the second year Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council’s running, is part of the Teaching (EPSRC) Energy Senior Research Fellow. Professor Quality Information initiative and Brandon will be providing advice and undertaking profile-raising activities for UK energy research, sup- gathers student opinion on all ported by the Research Councils’ Energy Programme. aspects of university life including He will be dividing his time between these activities and his research teaching, academic support and at Imperial. In addition, Professors Jerome Gauntlett, Department assessment and feedback. of Physics, and Martin Bridson, Department of Mathematics, were — Abigail Smith, Communications awarded prestigious Senior Research Fellowships—of which the EPSRC only awards six nationally every year. And last but not least, Dr • The full NSS results can be viewed Andrew Ho, Physics, and Dr Lionel Rossi, Aeronautics, have been given Advanced Research Fellowships—awarded to outstanding researchers on the Teaching Quality Information with between three and 10 years’ postdoctoral experience. website at www.tqi.ac.uk Good news for Imperial as the College fares well in this year’s National Student Survey Degussa Business award for Cowburn Professor Russell Cowburn, who has shown that magnetic microchips can store hundreds of gigabytes of information, has been awarded the Degussa European Science-to-Business Award 2006. The award Imperial adds six Royal consists of a £100,000 cash prize and the opportunity to attend a business management course at INSEAD, a leading French business school. Academy Fellows Professor Cowburn will also receive business planning consultancy services from INSEAD to help with his plan to commercialise the spintronic technology. Heads of Department and Division They are joined by Professor Sir past and present were among six Ara Darzi, Head of the Division of Royal Medal for Pendry Imperial academics celebrating in Surgery, Oncology, Reproductive Professor Sir John Pendry, Department of Physics, July after being elected Fellows of Biology and Anaesthetics in the has been awarded the prestigious Royal Medal by the Royal Academy of Engineering. Faculty of Medicine, who is awarded the Queen. The award was made in recognition of Professors Mike Graham, an Honorary Fellowship. Sir John’s seminal contributions in surface science, former Head of the Department The Rector said: “I am extremely disordered systems, photonics and, most recently, in metamaterials and the concept of the perfect lens. of Aeronautics; Morris Sloman, pleased and excited that of the 34 Deputy Head of the Department new Fellows of the Royal Academy Kitney recognised by Royal College of Computing; Andrew of Engineering elected this year, six of Surgeons Livingstone, Department of are from Imperial. This is a fantastic Professor of Biomedical Systems Engineering, Dick Kitney, has been Chemical Engineering and achievement and I would like to awarded the prestigious Honorary Fellowship of the Royal College of Chemical Technology; Peter congratulate them all. “ Surgeons. He is the first engineer ever to receive an Honorary Fellow- Cawley, Department of Mechanical — Laura Gallagher, ship of the Royal College, according to the College’s President Bernard Engineering; and Geoff Maitland, Communications Ribeiro. Professor Kitney, has over 25 years’ experience of biomedical Department of Chemical signal and image processing, medical informatics and the application of Engineering and Chemical • For the full story, including quotes computers to healthcare. He was Imperial’s first Head of Bioengineering and has worked on areas including the study of arterial disease, cardi- Technology; were all elected. from the new fellows, visit http://www. orespiratory control and three-dimensional visualisation techniques. imperial.ac.uk/P7960.htm

11 October, Issue 168 reporter www.imperial.ac.uk/reporter 11 student voice inventors corner Siobhán Kohli-Lynch is a second year Mechanical Engineering undergraduate. Siobhán kicks off this term’s first edition ofStudent Voice by writing of her endeavour to find out why so few women choose to study engineering. This new regular column will focus on enterprising “I’ve often wondered why so few young women choose to study engineering. academics and students In summer 2005 I had the opportunity to travel to Canada to investigate at the College, uncovering just that; I undertook a travelling fellowship about ‘Schemes Encouraging the secrets of their success Young Women to Study Engineering’. I had already worked for a year in an and in this issue, the highs engineering company and although I was aware that engineering is male and lows of spinning out dominated, I was surprised by the total lack of females. My Canada project companies. was funded by the Winston Churchill Memorial Trust, an organisation which awards about 100 fellowships each year in a wide variety of fields. The Midaz Touch This was a fantastic opportunity to travel another country whilst undertaking a relevant and useful project. Why Canada? The mixture of cultures This issue we highlight one of Imperial’s newest spin- makes it a great place to travel in and fascinating to study. I was particularly out companies, Midaz Lasers Ltd, recently formed by interested in how the proportion of female engineers varies between French Professor Mike Damzen from the Department of Physics. and English-speaking Canada. Mike has created what is claimed to be the world’s What makes engineering such an unattractive profession to young women? smallest, most efficient and highest quality diode- I found that girls often aren’t even considering engineering at school, put pumped solid state (DPSS) laser. Just the size of a off by its perception as being too difficult, too heavy and too trade-based. matchbox, this laser has proved to have a high output Therefore, it is important that girls consider studying the subject, and that they power and high beam quality suitable for microma- have enough information about it to make an informed decision about going chining applications. The laser’s low manufacturing cost into the field. could make it a suitable replacement for industrial inkjets The trip lasted six weeks and was the opportunity of a lifetime. I visited used in coding and marking products, removing the numerous prestigious universities, and in talking to so many people, was need for ink. Imperial Innovations helped Mike Damzen able to make some recommendations about what we in Britain should do to set up Midaz to develop this technology, investing £150k encourage more young women to study engineering: for its first funding round and providing £25k to create a prototype of the laser. • Gender stereotypes should be avoided, so that girls feel positive about Mike Damzen works alongside Dr Ara Minassian, science also in the Department of Physics, who is the company’s • When subject choices are being made in secondary school, girls Chief Scientific Officer. must know enough about engineering to keep the option of Work on the technology that underpins the company studying it open started in 1999 and by 2000 the team had built one of the • Later in life, it is important for young female engineers to world’s most efficient DPSS lasers. At first Mike was too see someone ahead of them in a mentoring type role focused on the academic side of the work to consider • Networking and socialising with other female engineers is spinning-out a company, but he always realised the important in an industry dominated by men potential of the product. He said: “I had recognised the • It is vital to see and encourage other women in engineering, commercial potential at a very early stage-after all we’d who probably have the same difficulties and worries made a leap in performance over laser companies who have been in the business for decades.” The completion of the fellowship required the sub- The road to forming the company however, was mission of a report within six months of returning sometimes rocky. Mike explained: “In 2001 I explored from Canada. After this was accepted, I was invited a licensing deal with a laser company but that stalled and for a presentation, so on 6 June this year, I went to I had nearly given up any dreams of commercialisation Buckingham Palace to receive a medallion from the by 2004.” Queen! It was fascinating to talk to other fellows Despite these setbacks things started again com- who have travelled all over the world to study such mercially in early 2005, when a high profile, multibillion diverse subjects, from seventeenth century weaving dollar US company took a big interest in the technology. in France to an expedition to the North Pole. Mike said: “This was the personal push I needed to take The fellowship was an amazing experience, the risk of starting a company. I could also see a quick and I hope to be able to put what I learned into route to market.” practice. The motto of the Winston Churchill Mike strongly recommends getting in touch with Memorial Trust is ‘With opportunity comes Imperial Innovations if academics feel their invention responsibility’ – something to think about for all may have commercial value. He said: “They played a of us who are part of one of the most well- vital role in the formation of the company, helping with regarded universities in the world. the logistic and legal side but most importantly they introduced key individuals who now form Midaz’s • If you’re a student who would like to air strong management team.” your views about a subject close to your heart, — Charlotte Stone, Imperial Innovations please contact Reporter’s Editor, Alexandra Platt, via email at [email protected] or telephone 020 7594 6715.

12 www.imperial.ac.uk/reporter reporter 11 October, Issue 168 Age positive ology for analysing geo- Make sure you’re in the know graphical variations in Age is no barrier to health. She has also been New legislation that came into force on making your mark at involved in high profile 1 October 2006 affects: Imperial—and Professor investigations including • Recruitment and • Professional Nicky Best can prove it. the Shipman Inquiry. selection development Nicky is also kept • Retirement • Promotion and Nicky, a member of the busy supervising 11 • Occupational health bonus payments • Pensions Department of Epidemiology research students and and Public Health, was pro- postdocs, teaching on • HR’s webpages at www.imperial.ac.uk/ moted to Professor last year at the Master’s degree in spectrum/hr/hr_Info/equality/age give the age of just 37. As Professor Modern Epidemiology guidance on what the Employment Equality of Statistics and Epidemiology at St Mary’s and undergraduate medical course, and (Age) Regulations can mean for you. Campus, she leads a team of researchers inves- contributing to national bodies including the tigating key health issues such as the impact of Royal Statistical Society. mobile phone masts and fertility trends. Nicky’s own career was inspired largely a keen rower and rowed for the National Nicky joined Imperial in 1996 as Lecturer by her PhD supervisor at Cambridge, Senior Squad. However, long working hours and in Biostatistics, following a first class Scientist David Spiegelhalter, with whom rowing practice were not a good combina- Honours degree in maths and sports science she continues to collaborate on a number of tion, so Nicky has retired from rowing but at the University of Wales, a Master’s in research fronts. This inspiration has meant still enjoys cheering others on. medical statistics at Leicester and PhD in she places great importance on mentoring Achieving such a young Professorship biostatistics at Cambridge University. During junior members of staff in her department. could, for some, put a limit on their career her PhD studies, she was based in the MRC Nicky believes her Professorship was also ambitions. For Nicky, however, it was a very Biostatistics Unit and helped develop the made possible by the support of her Head of welcome milestone but by no means the pin- BUGS computer software for Bayesian anal- Department, Professor Paul Elliott, and other nacle of her career. “It is not what’s motivated ysis of complex statistical methods. BUGS senior colleagues. me in my work. I’m very proud of it, but at is widely known and has more than 16,000 “Even so,” she said, the end of the day I love my area registered users around the world. “I was very surprised to “Imperial itself was of research.” Once at Imperial, Nicky’s career progres- be awarded the Chair so encouraging and As to the future, Nicky wants sion was impressive. She became Senior the first time I applied. I to get a few years as Professor Lecturer in Biostatistics in 2000 and Reader in really appreciate both the did not feel I was too under her belt, but would like to 2003 before her Professorship two years later. support of my colleagues, young to take on such spend more time writing books Nicky believes her involvement in the BUGS and the fact that Imperial and training materials in the software played a key role in international itself was so encouraging a responsibility.” longer term. recognition and her professorship. and did not feel I was too And the only downside to She was also fortunate to join the College young to take on such a responsibility.” being a Professor at Imperial? – “I’m not able as it was developing the Small Area Health As a Professor, Nicky finds her working to do as much hands-on research as I used to Statistics Unit (SAHSU), which receives hours are long and hard and admits to do,” said Nicky. “Delegation is something I government funding to assess environmental wishing occasionally that she had more have had to get used to.” risks to public health and develop method- leisure time. Until six years ago, she was — Wendy Raeside, Communications

Alumni reunite in force

Nearly 300 alumni and guests from as far along to show them where away as Venezuela and Australia came back they used to study. Children of to the College on Saturday 16 September, to all ages were kept busy at the enjoy an engaging lecture programme, tours Science Museum and explored of local museums and visits to their former the science of music, costume departments. and light at an interactive Following a welcome from the Rector, session. the morning’s lecture, entitled Can we trust Dinner in the Senior the scientists? was given by Professor Lord Common Room concluded the Robert Winston to a lecture theatre filled day’s events and provided the Computing alumni from 1996 enjoy some Union hospitality at the 2006 Alumni Reunion with attendees of all generations. perfect opportunity for alumni The series of afternoon lectures, which to catch up and reminisce about their own • More details about the day and photographs were built around the reunion’s theme of student days. Dr Tidu Maini, Pro Rector for are available online at www.imperial.ac.uk/ communicating science, proved just as Development and Corporate Affairs, who alumni/reunions popular with attendees. Speakers included was celebrating his own fortieth reunion with Next year’s reunion will take place on the alumnus Carlo Massarella, Professor Hans fellow alumni from the Department of Civil weekend of 15–16 September 2007 and the Office Michels, Drs Matt Genge and Phil Bland, and Engineering, hosted the dinner. of Alumni and Development will extend the Stephen Webster. – Zoë Perkins, Alumni and Development invitation to all alumni as part of the College’s Many alumni chose to bring their families Centenary celebrations.

11 October, Issue 168 reporter www.imperial.ac.uk/reporter 13 Research ethics focus of trial medication, villagers put signs above their doors saying in Arabic, ‘This family has chosen life’. Many of the villagers were summer lectures in abject poverty and their culture was very different from my own. Research ethics must Imperial’s Research Office welcomed Dr and statutory surely be about protecting the vulnerable Edward Gabriele in August to deliver a compliance who put so much trust in our science that series of lectures. In his lively talks Dr in all that we they see this as a route to life. Gabriele looked in depth at the spirit and do, focusing in challenge of research ethics, examined what particular on What have you hoped to achieve during it means to be a research administrator education and your visit to Imperial? Dr Edward Gabriele spoke at a series of and promoted the benefits of administra- training. lectures over the summer A key part of my work is to promote relation- tors learning more about the research they ships between institutions so that we can support. What does learn from each other, not only about the Caroline Gaulter spoke to Dr Gabriele, research integrity mean to you? science we study but also about the ethics Assistant Vice President for Research The advancement of medicine depends on that go hand in hand. I’ve had a wonderful Integrity at MedStar Research Institute, USA, human research and we have an ethical experience here at Imperial, an institution so and a Professor at Georgetown University responsibility to protect the human subjects richly resourced in people and intellectual School of Medicine, about his work and who are needed for this. Mitigating the risk capital. I hope I’ve helped research adminis- philosophy. lies far deeper than the clerical forms we trators to realise that their duties lie deeper produce and complete. Professionals must than their clerical tasks, that their role is a What does your work at the MedStar be educated in values to form the characters critical part of research and that, as a result, Research Institute entail? required for real, ethical healthcare. we must strive to become even more profes- MedStar Research Institute is the research sional in this crucial role. The values we hold arm of MedStar Health, the largest health- Are you able to relay any experiences when are an integral part of our approach to the care delivery organisation in Washington, the importance of your work particularly research we nurture. DC, with responsibility for the management struck you? – Caroline Gaulter, Communications and research outputs of seven major hospi- A few years ago I spent time in a village in tals. My job is to ensure research integrity Egypt as part of a vaccine trial. On receiving centenary update Death notice Emeritus Professor Eric Brown meticulous about every aspect of running his Eric H. Brown, formerly Professor of Structural Department. See www.imperial.ac.uk/news Top tips and templates Engineering in the Department of Civil and for a full appreciation. Environmental Engineering and Dean of Engi- With the Centenary year fast approaching, the events calendar is beginning neering, died in September 2006. In a long Emeritus Professor Charles Rees to take shape. There is already an exciting line up of speakers, including career at Imperial, he also made an enormous Last month Imperial learnt of the death of Lord Browne, Chief Executive of BP, Roger Highfield, Science Editor,The contribution to the College’s musical life, Charles Rees, Emeritus Professor of Chemistry, Daily Telegraph and Boris Johnson, MP. All events taking place from now can having been a founder of the Imperial College who first came to work in the Department of use the Centenary logos, and faculties and Imperial College Union are devel- Choir and contributing annually to concerts Chemistry as Hofmann Professor of Organic oping their own event programme to form part of the College calendar. and Commemoration Day. Professor Brown Chemistry in 1978. Although he took early was awarded a Fellowship of Imperial College retirement in 1993, Professor Rees continued in 1999. work as an Emeritus, and was to be found Are you planning a Centenary event? in the Department on a daily basis until his Top tips and key contacts for Centenary event planning, as well as invitation, Kevin Delaney death last week at the age of 78. See www. flyer, name badge and table name plaque templates are available from the Imperial has heard with sadness of the death, imperial.ac.uk/news for a full obituary. Centenary website at www.imperial.ac.uk/centenary. last month, of Kevin Delaney, HR Assistant There is also a comprehensive toolkit for using the special logo, including in the Human Resources Division. Kevin had Emeritus Professor James H. Whitelaw downloadable logos and templates been with HR since February 2000, most Professor James H. Whitelaw, FRS, died on 16 for letterheads, PowerPoint pres- recently working in the Administrative Divi- August 2006 aged 70. He began his Imperial entations and posters. You can also sions Team, and had many friends who greatly career in the Department of Mechanical download a PowerPoint presentation enjoyed working with him. Engineering as a lecturer in 1963 and was giving information about the Cente- made a professor in 1974. From 1977 until nary plans. Professor John Lever his retirement in 1999, Whitelaw focused on You will notice changes to your Professor John Lever, Head of the Depart- the development of the Fluids and then the stationery too, as from this month ment of Bioengineering and a member of Thermofluids sections. After his retirement he Centenary branded letterhead will the College community since 1973, died last continued his association with the Depart- New merchandise will be avail- month. He is remembered by colleagues ment part-time, assisting younger members of begin to replace standard Imperial able from the Union shop and as an outstanding researcher and teacher, staff and doctoral candidates. letterhead until the end of 2007 and online at http://shop.union. dedicated to the welfare of his students and a special postal frank will be intro- imperial.ac.uk from December. duced at all campuses. —Carol Marsh, Communications 8 The Editor is pleased to accept brief appreciations in remembrance of colleagues, reserving the right to edit these before publication. Please email • Visit www.imperial.ac.uk/centenary for more [email protected] Centenary information.

14 www.imperial.ac.uk/reporter reporter 11 October, Issue 168 Dr Isabelle Leclerc, Medicine Miss Quan Yu, Molecular Biosciences Dr Timothy Munt, Chemistry welcome Professor Michael Levin, Medicine Mr Irfan Zakiuddin, Computing Dr Roberto Navarrete, NMH Dr Meng Li, Clinical Sciences Mrs Elizabeth Neary, SORA Miss Sandra Lock, Investigative Science Mr Philip Nilson, Physics new starters Dr Merewyn Loder, Medicine Dr Muna Noori, SORA Dr Alessio Lomuscio, Computing farewell Mr Dean Norgate, NHLI Miss Fariha Afgan, Faculty of Medicine Miss Pei Lou, Catering Services Dr Brown Okoko, NHLI Mrs Evanne Allister, SORA Dr Le Luong, NHLI Dr Paul O’Neill, Physics Miss Cherry Alyahya, Medicine Mr John Mason, Medicine moving on Miss Lulu Pan, Catering Services Professor Erkko Autio, Business School Dr Daliya Mathew, Chemical Engineering Mr Kamal Pandya, NHLI Dr Daniel Balint, Mechanical Engineering Professor Paul Matthews, NMH Dr Michael Ala, ESE (27y) Mr Hugo Parker, BMS Dr Konstantinos Beis, Molecular Biosciences Miss Karis McKee, Faculty of Medicine Dr Stephan Ankirchner, Mathematics Mrs Hetal Patel, NHLI Dr Cedric Berger, Cell and Molecular Biology Mrs Julie McKinley, Estates Dr Mariela Araujo Fresky, ESE Mrs Magda Porter, Educational Quality Office Mr James Berry, Molecular Biosciences Miss Rhiannon Medhurst, Medicine Mr Jerome Avis, Catering Services Mr Robert Powell, CHOSTM Mr Hafiz Bidmus, ICT Dr Simon Michaelis, Chemistry Dr Juhoon Back, EEE Dr Roger Preston, Investigative Science Miss Ashly Black, EPHPC Miss Emma Miller, Finance Dr Arosha Bandara, Computing Mr Paul Price, Computing Dr Hugh Blackburn, Aeronautics Mr Adam Mills, ICT Ms Adetoun Baruwa, BMS Mr Andrew Pridmore, Faculty of Engineering Dr Gareth Brady, Investigative Science Dr Eiichi Mizohata, Molecular Biosciences Dr Jon Beauchamp, Clinical Sciences Ms Jenny Quickfall, EEE Mr Steve Buckle, Business School Mr Carlos Molto Ripoll, Chemistry Ms Anne Benjamin, Business School Mr Dan Raishbrook, Faculty of Medicine Mrs Olha Bystrykivska, Catering Services Dr Stephen Myatt, SORA Dr Johann Boucle, Physics Ms Liz Richards, EPHPC (7y) Dr Laura Canevari, NMH Miss Magdelena Myc, Catering Services Ms Michelle Bovell, Investigative Science Dr Christophe Ringeval, Physics Dr Ashish Chaurasia, Chemical Engineering Mrs Jane Neary, Catering Services Mr Peter Broomfield, Faculty of Engineering Professor Douglas Robinson, NHLI (11y) Dr Audrey Chavey, Medicine Dr Sandra Newton, Medicine Dr Matt Butler, Medicine Dr Francesco Russo, Medicine Miss Kathryn Chipperfield, SORA Mr Andrew Norton, Biology Ms Isabel Casamayor, NHLI Dr Jonathan Sapsed, Business School Mr Anderson Ciszewski, Catering Services Dr Matthew O’Donnell, Materials Ms Ruth Chapman, EPHPC Ms Britta Seidemann, Medicine Miss Camila Clemente, Catering Services Mr Toshio Ogawa, Business School Dr Kevin Clemitshaw, Agricultural Sciences Ms Alison Shipton, NHLI Miss Keshia Collins, EYEC Mr Isaac Olarewaju, ICT Dr Charlotte Collins, Medicine Miss Katie Shirley, Physics Mr Gianfilippo Coppola, Bioengineering Mr Kevin O’Leary, College Headquarters Ms Faye Cooper, NMH Miss Nicki Smith, SORA Dr Richard Court, ESE Mr Nicholas Oorloff, Medicine Dr Suzy Cordell, Cell & Molecular Biology Ms Natalie Steibelt, Business School Mrs Nadia Cruz, Catering Services Miss Eniola Osifodunrin, Medicine Dr Stephanie Cremers, Bioengineering Miss Jade Sutherland, Estates Miss Aleksandra Czerniak, Faculty of Medicine Dr Dirk Pattinson, Computing Mr Terrence Crombie, Chemical Engineering Mr Steve Tauroza, Humanities Dr Gabriela Da Silva Xavier, Medicine Dr Maciej Pedzisz, EEE Dr Maurizio D’Arienzo, EEE Mr Carlos Tavares, Computing Mr Manuel Da Silva, Catering Services Miss Vilanda Petrauskaite, Catering Services Mrs Simonne Dawson, NHLI Miss Renay Taylor, NHLI Miss Claire Dady, Medicine Dr Andrew Phillips, Civil and Environmental Dr Claire de Mazancourt, Biology (7y) Mr Andres Tello Gracia, Catering Services Mr Coutinho De Figueiredo, Computing Engineering Dr Zabala de Torres, Biology (5y) Dr Michael Themis, BMS Ms Anna Demetriades, Human Resources Mrs Melanie Phillips, Occupational Health Mr Remco de Vries, Molecular Biosciences Mr Ray Thompson, Faculty of Engineering Miss Angela Devlin-Jolliffe, Medicine Miss Winnie Phiri, Catering Services Dr Maria Derkacs, NMH Mr James Vallerine, Registry Dr Zhiguo Ding, EEE Dr Michael Pickles, EPHPC Dr Kamal Desai, EPHPC (5y) Dr Daniele Varacca, Computing Dr Walter Distaso, Business School Miss Abbie Piper, Medicine Dr Paramdeep Dhillon, NHLI Mr Miguel Vargas-Reus, EPHPC moving in. moving on. Miss Sarah Dodman, Physics Mr Graeme Rae, Human Resources Dr Maralyn Druce*, Investigative Science Miss Conchi Vera-Valderrama, EPHPC Mrs Magdalena Drezewska, Molecular Mr Thomas Reddyhoff, Mechanical Mr Mathew Edenbrow, NHLI Dr Lisa Voigt, Physics Biosciences Engineering Dr Paul Edison*, NMH Mr Glenn Wallington, Faculty of Engineering Mr Paul Elliott, Faculty of Natural Sciences Miss Maria Revelo Bados, Catering Services Mrs Lakhnati El Alaoui, Mathematics (17y) Mr Guilherme Faioli, Catering Services Dr Emma Rhodes, Clinical Sciences Dr Lee Faulkner, Investigative Science (5y) Miss Jemma Walsh, Faculty of Medicine Mr Richard Fearn, ICT Ms Andrea Robins, Educational Quality Office Miss Lucy Fawcett, Sport and Leisure Services Dr Xuhua Wang, Physics Mr Nicholas Foin, Bioengineering Professor Guy Rutter, Medicine Mr Paul Free, Chemistry Mr Eliot Ward, Molecular Biosciences Dr Howard Foster, Computing Mr Odwa Salama, Catering Services Dr Mark Frogley, Physics Miss Michelle Warren, CEP (7y) Ms Hongmei Fu, Medicine Dr Alexander Schekochihin, Physics Miss Rebecca Fuller, Biology Miss Louisa Wilcock, NHLI Dr David Garcia Alvarez, Physics Dr Francesca Semplici, Medicine Dr Janos Gal, SORA Dr Jo Wilson, Physics Miss Lisa Gardner, Medicine Mr Guillaume Sherlock, Registry Miss Elizabeth Garland, NHLI Mr Aliaksandr Yarmishyn, Cell & Molecular Mr Zishaan Gatrad, EEE Dr Kin Yee Shiu, Medicine Mr Iyob Ghebrenegus, NMH Biology Mr Paresh Ghaghda, Computing Ms Bushra Siddiqui, Investigative Science Emeritus Professor Gillon*, EPHPC Dr Sherif Yusuf, Computing Dr Ravin Ginige, Physics Dr Jennifer Siggers, Bioengineering Dr Pilar Gonzalez-Gomez, SORA Dr Yongjun Zhang, Physics Dr Jelle Goeman, EPHPC Dr Rachel Simmonds, Kennedy Institute Dr Krisztian Gorog, EPHPC Mr Joshua Golbert, Chemical Engineering Miss Laura Snowling, Faculty of Medicine Mr Jamie Griffin, EPHPC Mr Fabian Gonzalez Jara, NHLI Dr Duncan Spalding, SORA Dr Andrew Harkins, Mathematics retiring Ms Crystal Grant, Registry Dr Sarah Sparrow, Physics Dr Fauzia Hasnie, SORA Mrs Eileen Boden, Library Services (15y) Dr Alan Groves, Clinical Sciences Miss Louisa Spittles, Communications Dr Youssef Hassoun, Computing Professor Jean Connerade*, Physics (33y) Dr Hatice Gungor, Medicine Dr Asa Strom, Kennedy Institute Dr David Herbert, Mathematics Mrs Yvonne Doyle, Business School (12y) Dr Jonathan Hays, Physics Dr Liaquat Suleman-Verjee, Kennedy Institute Dr Birger Herzog, SORA Professor Gordon James*, Mathematics (20y) Dr William Heal, Chemistry Dr Mengxing Tang, Bioengineering Mr Peter Holley, Student Residences Dr Mike Keating, Mathematics (38y) Mr Anthony Heasman, Chemistry Ms Vivienne Taylor, Medicine Professor John Hudson, ESE (7y) Mr Frank Kriwaczek*, Computing (22y) Dr Jerry Heng, Chemical Engineering Dr Michael Templeton, Civil and Environmental Mr John Huggett, Library Services Professor John MacDermot, Faculty of Mr Richard Hey, ICT Engineering Dr Adrien Jamain, Computing Medicine (17y) Ms Ulrike Hillemann, International Office Mrs Dawn Tharpe, Medicine Mr Roger Jones, Mechanical Engineering Dr Raul Margara*, SORA (20y) Miss Yun Hou, EEE Dr Guy Thwaites, Investigative Science Dr Jussi Kalkkinen, Physics Professor Istvan Maros*, Computing (10y) Mr Kris Ilic, Estates Mrs Sandra Turner, EYEC Miss Thalia Kaprou, Human Resources Professor William Meikle*, Physics (30y) Mrs Svitlana Ishmakova, Catering Services Dr Maria Vigliotti, Computing Dr Harsha Kariyawasam, NHLI Dr Vivien Moore, Physics (23y) Ms Liz Ivory, SORA Dr Maria Vila Grifoll, NMH Dr Jennifer Kearley, NHLI Professor Kim Parker*, Bioengineering (24y) Mr Janse van Rensburg, Medicine Dr Shashank Virmani, Physics Miss Aysha Kent, Investigative Science Mrs Sylvia Perry, Finance (14y) Mrs Elizabeth Janz, SORA Ms Lucy Wakefield, Occupational Health Mr Junaid Khalid, Faculty of Medicine Professor David Phillips*, Chemistry (17y) Dr Taiwen Jiang, Medicine Service Ms Steffi Klier, Medicine Mr David Price*, Physics (41y) Dr Dimitrios Kalaitzopoulos, Computing Dr Yiqian Wang, Materials Mr Boon Koh, NHLI Miss Ainslee Rutledge, Educational Quality Ms Jaspal Kaur-Griffin, SORA Professor John Warner, Medicine Dr Eduard Lindner-Lopez, Chemical Office (28y) Ms Aneire Khan, EPHPC Miss Naomi Weston, Communications Engineering Professor Robert Schroter*, Bioengineering Ms Sabrina Kiefer, Business School Dr Ann Wheeler, BMS Ms Samantha Linton, Business School (41y) Dr Robert Kosowski, Business School Ms Saskia Wilming, Faculty of Medicine Mr Eugenio Macchiarulo, Investigative Mr Robert Steed, Biological Sciences (7y) Dr Miguel Laguna Bercero, Materials Dr Toby Wiseman, Physics Science (5y) Mr Felix Stevens, Investigative Science (36y) Miss Aimee Laing-Mendonca, EYEC Dr Ke Xu, NHLI Mr Timothy Machin, ICT Mr Vladimir Tsankov, Catering Services (5y) Ms Camilla Lake-Grondona, Conference Office Miss Shoko Yashiro, Molecular Biosciences Dr Harris Makatsoris*, Chemical Engineering Mr Derek Willis, Mechanical Engineering (38y) Mr Adrien Laure, Finance Mr Alexander Yip, ICT Mr Virgilijus Matuliunas, Catering Services Mrs Jennifer Lawton, Medicine Dr Pirre Yla-Maihaniemi, Chemical Engineering Dr Rainer Mautz, Civil and Environmental Engineering Mr Emmanuel Mazars, EEE This data is supplied by HR and covers the Mr David McBride, Computing period 1–30 September 2006. It was correct at > Please send your images and/or brief comments Miss Jane McCarthy, Faculty of Natural the time of going to press. Years of service are about new starters, leavers and retirees to the Editor, Sciences given where an individual has been a member Miss Aurelie Mejean, Faculty of Engineering of College staff for over five years. [email protected] who reserves the right to Dr Daniel Melley, NHLI Asterisk (*) indicates where an individual will edit or amend these as necessary. Mr Robert Mowatt, Student Residences continue to play an active role in College life.

11 October, Issue 168 reporter www.imperial.ac.uk/reporter 15 notice board 11 October 2006 what’s on

11 October 2006 • 17.00–18.30 19 October 2006 • 18.30–20.30 New Windows into the Heart: The best science books ever cardiovascular imaging from Dr Armand Leroi, Maggie McDonald, Tim molecules to patients Radford Professor Robert Bonow, Goldberg Panel Debate Distinguished Professor of Cardiology, 8Lecture Theatre G16, Sir Alexander Northwestern University, USA Fleming Building First Annual Paul Wood Cardiovascular Lecture 8Paul Wood Lecture Theatre, Guy Scadding classifieds Building, National Heart and Lung Institute, Dove- 25 October 2006 • 11.30–17.30 house Street, London SW3 6LY Commemoration Day 2006 > Reporter now includes a regular classifieds section. If you have a something for sale, property to let or are Undergraduate graduation ceremonies 11 October 2006 • 17.30–18.30 looking for someone to share a lift to work with, this is 8Royal Albert Hall the perfect place to advertise. Please submit no more From Rule Book to Risk than 50 words to the Editor, Alexandra Platt, by email at [email protected] for a chance for your advertisement Management: the development of to appear. The Editor reserves the right to edit these as safety management in Hong Kong 25 October 2006 • 13.00–13.45 necessary. MTR Corporation Lunch time concert Tent Pack for Sale. Black’s tent pack for sale including Phil Gaffney, Former Managing Director, The Chamber Players two-person tent, two sleeping bags, two camp mattresses Operations and Business Development, Hong and carry case. New this year and never been used. Retails Kong MTR Corporation 8Read Theatre, Sherfield Building for £70. Asking £40 ONO. Please email m.sanderson@ imperial.ac.uk if you are interested or require further Imperial College London/Lloyd’s Register Annual information. Lecture in Transport Risk Management Lecture 31 October 2006 • 17.30–18.30 8Clore Lecture Theatre, Huxley Building Playing God? A lecture exploring the relationship between science volunteering 11 October 2006 • 13.00–13.45 and religion hosted by the Lunch time concert Chaplaincy. Employee Volunteering is a joint project between the Colin Stone (piano) Professor Lord Robert Winston Staff Development Unit and the Imperial Volunteer 8Read Theatre, Sherfield Building 8Great Hall, Sherfield Building Centre. Staff members with six months’ satisfac- tory service are eligible to participate in voluntary All events are at the South Kensington activity and receive some time off work in recogni- 13 October 2006 • 18.00–19.00 tion of their contribution. Opportunities also exist Campus unless otherwise stated. for teams to use volunteering as the basis for team Repairing the Engine of Life: development and away days. how plants have solved their This regular Reporter column will outline an energy crisis urgent project in each issue. Why not get involved? Professor Peter J. Nixon take note Inaugural lecture This year’s Postgraduate This week’s project... 8Clore Lecture Theatre, Huxley Building Prospectus is out now. Ask your Departmental Volunteer Host Administrator for a copy or Project ID: 83 for Contact the Elderly 19 October 2006 • 13.00–13.45 visit www.imperial.ac.uk/ Sunday 15.00–17.30/once or twice a year Location: Your home, anywhere in London Lunch time concert pgprospectus for the extended online version. Natalie Clein (cello) and Charles Owen (piano) Volunteers needed to host a group of elderly people in your home for afternoon tea once or twice a year. 8Read Theatre, Sherfield Building Groups of people between 10–16 people visit a different home every month and spend a few hours in the company of friends, old and new. This is an extremely rewarding opportunity to help to improve the lives of an escalating number of lonely elderly Reporter is published every three weeks Editor people, who are simply too frail to go out alone. during term time in print and online at Alexandra Platt www.imperial.ac.uk/reporter. Tel +44 (0)20 759 46715 email [email protected] > To take part in this scheme or to hear The copy deadline for issue 169 is more about volunteering in general, contact Friday 20 October. Publication date is Photography Minna Ruohonen on 020 7594 8133 or email 1 November. Contributions are welcome Cheryl Apsee Neville Miles [email protected]. (no more than 300 words). Please note Emma Bowkett Alexandra Platt the editor reserves the right to cut or Laura Gallagher Danielle Reeves • www.imperial.ac.uk/volunteering amend articles as necessary. Information Caroline Gaulter Christian Richters Visit correct at time of going to press. Ian Gillett Abigail Smith for full details of over 250 volunteering Ralph Hodgson Tom Whipps opportunities. You can also subscribe to the weekly newsletter by emailing [email protected].

16 www.imperial.ac.uk/reporter reporter 11 October, Issue 168