newsthexx staffxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx magazine for university at lboroissue 79 | winter 2014

February

Rising up September the ranks

13th in THE TIMES HIGHER ‘Table of Tables’

inside this issue... Making student voices Let’s STEMM the leaky 2014 heard How Loughborough did pipeline The Athena SWAN A look back at the in the NSS, p8 Charter, p10 , p16 02 news news 03 in this issue Five Star Loughborough 99% August OF COURSES February Loughborough May has achieved a five star rating in September with year-long an independent WORK PLACEMENT OPTION assessment of its performance. The QS Stars scheme provides institutions with a broad range of criteria that allows them to highlight their particular areas of excellence.

Focus 8 According to QS, a five star university is “world National Student Survey class in a broad range of areas, enjoys a high results reputation and has cutting edge facilities and internationally renowned research and over the next ACILITIES Focus 10 teaching faculty.” £100M INVESTMEN T IN F three years Athena SWAN The assessment looked at four core criteria Research 12 – teaching, research, employability and Loughborough leaps up Research Challenges internationalisation. It also assessed the From #IAMIN to #WEAREHERE! University’s facilities, its innovation, including the number of research projects undertaken Focus 14 The University was a hive of activity in mid August, Part two of the campaign kicked off in September, Good University Guide my.HR makeover with external companies, and access – including when students received their A level results and found with students encouraged to upload their the value and number of scholarships and Loughborough leapt to 13th place out The Vice Chancellor says the out whether they had a place at Loughborough. #IAMHERE selfies to Twitter. There were also giant bursaries available. Focus 16 University’s rise in the rankings reflects Glasgow 2014 #WEAREHERE frames at each of the University’s of 123 UK universities in The Times Over a period of five days, around 90 staff and The review of Loughborough included an Commonwealth Games halls of residence and the Students’ Union so groups and Sunday Times Good University the commitment and dedication of all students were based in a special call centre in the additional assessment of its performance in of friends could take collective photos. Guide 2015, published in September, members of the University community, Sport and health 18 Haslegrave building, taking enquiries from students. mechanical, manufacturing and aeronautical cementing its status as one of the with the coordinated approach taken engineering. Sport news update In the first hour of day one, 25 calls a second were “Loughborough’s well-known for its community feel, so country’s leading higher education by the University and Students’ Union received by the University. Staff in all the University’s we wanted to have an initiative that makes our freshers Loughborough gained five stars for each of the institutions. It was also shortlisted for of particular importance. Schools were also busy advising students on decisions, feel part of the University right from the outset,” said areas in which it was assessed. the coveted title of University of the “We have a very significant common and the Vice Chancellor and Students’ Union president Rob Whittaker, LSU President. “And the giant photo Year 2014-15, which recognises Public Relations Office “To have received five stars right across the board interest – to provide the best experience were on hand for a while to call successful students. frames on campus will definitely help to generate is an outstanding achievement and confirms the all-round excellence. T: 01509 222224 for our students,” says Professor Allison. E: [email protected] some light-hearted inter-hall competition, with a prize breadth of excellence at Loughborough,” said the In the build up to Clearing and Adjustment, the for the hall with the most selfies!” Vice Chancellor. “This rating puts us alongside The guide ranks universities on eight “The close working relationship that the Design/Print University had a dedicated website, with details of Design and Print Services some of the very best universities in the world.” key criteria – student satisfaction, University and Students’ Union have www.lboro.ac.uk/designandprint available places, infographics to highlight University The VC, Professor Bob Allison, was happy to get research quality, graduate prospects, gives Loughborough an exceptional Printed on Essential Silk, produced facts and achievements, video, student blogs about involved with the campaign as well. entrance qualifications, degree results cohesiveness that really benefits using sustainably sourced materials their Clearing experiences, and top tips for students He said: “We want to let our students know that the achieved, student/staff ratios, services our students. We want to provide and elemental chlorine free pulp and their parents. Students were also able to ask staff here at Loughborough are very accessible, so we and facilities spend, and drop-out opportunities for every one of them to Photography questions and get advice from staff and current thought the ‘We Are Here’ message was appropriate for LSU loyalty scheme rates. Loughborough’s results rose this be the very best they can be, which Design and Print Services, students in an online chat room. Andrew Weekes, Thinkstock. us too – we are here to help them make the very best year in six of the eight performance ultimately contributes to the success of now open to staff measures. the University.” On the Saturday after results day the University held of their time at the University.” University staff can now sign up for the an open house event to enable students who’d been Students’ Union’s Loyalty Points scheme. Loughborough’s excellent rating in The made an offer through Clearing or Adjustment to study Times and Sunday Times follows those at Loughborough to see the campus for themselves. For every £1 you spend in the Union’s shops, in this year’s Complete University Guide catering outlets and bars, you’ll get four points OF 2013 All the Clearing activity was supported by an and Guardian University Guide, in which if you scan your staff ID card. You can then GRADUATES IN expansive social media campaign. Students who’d the University was ranked 13th and gained a place at Loughborough were sent a postcard redeem your points on a range of products, 15th respectively. Its performance this to encourage them to take selfies and post them on from meal deals and coffees to hoodies and year meant Loughborough climbed to notepads. 13th in the Times Higher Education’s EMPLOYMENT

Twitter using the hashtag #IAMIN. It was hugely 94% ‘Table of Tables’, ahead of two thirds of and/or FURTHER STUDY successful with hundreds of selfies posted, creating a For more information and to sign up go to the Russell Group universities. real buzz about Loughborough on social media. lsu.co.uk/loyalty

Loughborough is proud to be a Fairtrade University Look for products with the FAIRTRADE Mark. www.fairtrade.org.uk Keep up-to-date with the latest staff news at www.lboro.ac.uk/internal/news T59013/DPS/Nov14 04 news news 05 Staff development Academics take on course guide comedy challenge The new Staff Development Guide 2014-15 is now Have you heard the one about the available online at www.lboro.ac.uk/services/sd academic in the comedy club? The guide lists all the courses that Staff Development Members of staff have been performing at Loughborough’s very own have on offer, from essential training to courses for Bright Club, a comedy club that originated at University College in specific staff groups. Printed versions are available in 2009 and has since swept the country – and even sprung up in Australia. the Rutland Building (first floor) or contact Sue Savin Amazing ([email protected]) for copies. The Bright Club is held at the Organ Grinder pub in Loughborough and the three events staged so far have been sell-outs. Reserve your place on any of Staff Development’s Staff email is getting LSU Rag courses via my.HR. Loughborough The academics use their research as the basis for their acts. The idea of Students’ Union Rag Bright Club is to promote engagement with the public and foster good See p14-15 for more information about the has once more proved relations. It has been described as a ‘thinking person’s comedy night’, and revamped my.HR. BIGGER it’s number one in ‘where funny meets brains’. IT Services are moving staff email across to student fundraising, Office 365. Following feedback they will also Performers to date have mostly been PhD students but the organisers are raising a phenomenal be increasing email quotas, from 1GB by default trying to get more lecturers and professors involved. Teaching Centre £1,411,510.43 in to 50GB. Kate Simpson, who helped get the club 2013-14 for local and changes its name Office 365 is hosted in the Microsoft Cloud and is up and running, admits it’s scary but national charities. says: “After attempting comedy, a regular The Teaching Centre has changed its a reliable system, available 99.9% of the time. Check out their great presentation will never be scary again. To find out more name to the Centre for Academic Practice. There will be no change to the way you use your infographic! “Academia can be very serious and I about the Bright Club The Centre is for academic staff and desktop client. However, if you access your work email Kate at email on your mobile or tablet you’ll need to make think it helps make us seem more human others who support learning. It offers a a small change to the configuration on your device. and approachable to the public.” [email protected] range of services, including the design Details of how to do this are available on the IT and delivery of nationally accredited Services website. You will be able to access your postgraduate courses. email via the built-in email client, new OWA web based email and OWA App for iPhone/iPad, which is available free from the App Store. Uni achieves internationally- IT Services will let you know in advance when your recognised environmental standard Alex wins email will be migrated. The University has achieved the highest possible Platinum Award in the national EcoCampus scheme and gained accreditation to the engineering internationally-recognised environmental management standard ISO 14001. X Factor! EcoCampus provides a structured four-stage framework – Bronze through to Platinum – to guide universities through to accreditation Dr Alex Lyness, an Enterprise Fellow within Breaking news… to ISO 14001. Loughborough has been developing its Environmental the Healthcare Engineering Research Group, Management System under the EcoCampus scheme since 2010, when was a winner in this year’s ‘I’m an Engineer, As newsatlboro went to print Vince Cable MP had it achieved the Bronze level award. It achieved Silver and Gold levels in get me out of here!’ competition, beating just announced that in 2011 and 2012. engineers from numerous other universities, London is to host the first ‘Spoke’ of the Advanced ISO 14001 is an internationally accepted standard that outlines how to including Oxford, to take the title in the Propulsion Centre, which was established to Health Zone category. put an effective environmental management system in place. It is designed to help organisations position the UK as the global leader for the reduce their environmental impact as they grow and develop. ‘I’m an Engineer…’ and its sister event ‘I’m production and development of low carbon Loughborough’s latest achievements place it among an environmental elite – less than 15% of a Scientist...’ allow school children from propulsion technology. The London Spoke will be a the higher education sector have achieved ISO 14001 and just 28% of universities registered on around the UK to ask scientists and centre of excellence in digital engineering and test. the EcoCampus scheme have reached the Platinum Award level. engineers anything they want. It’s a free, The Spoke’s location at Loughborough University online X Factor-style competition where in London will enhance the APC’s visibility, reach Jo Shields, Loughborough’s Sustainability Manager, said: “It’s a fantastic achievement, particularly as it’s a campus-wide accreditation. It demonstrates how the whole University students are the judges, voting for their and effectiveness among key decision makers and community has worked collaboratively on environmental management issues.” favourite scientists and engineers. investors, strengthening its sphere of influence To find out more or get involved go to in order to attract to the UK further innovative Accreditation to ISO 14001 is a clear demonstration of Loughborough’s commitment to reducing imanengineer.org.uk or imascientist.org.uk businesses aligned to the automotive sector. its environmental impact and can bring significant benefits to the University. For instance, it can help to support research grants and funding bids, and put the University ahead of the pack in the competition for business. Keep up-to-date with the latest staff news at www.lboro.ac.uk/internal/news 06 news news 07 On your feet! Staff presented with People in the most sedentary jobs Senior lecturer in human biology Dr University Medal are the least likely to be active Stacy Clemes said: “Our findings add Three members of staff were outside of work, according to a to growing evidence that highlight study from Sport, Exercise and the workplace as a key setting for presented with the University Medal Health Sciences. sedentary behaviour, and underline at this summer’s degree ceremonies. the importance of introducing The Medal is awarded to those who Researchers monitored 170 full-time workplace interventions to reduce or office workers over seven days to have made a distinctive and long- break up sitting time for office workers record sedentary behaviour (or ‘sitting running contribution to the University. in the UK. time’) both inside and outside work. They have championed the values of Fruit Routes “Simple measures such as Results showed people spend up to Loughborough throughout their long encouraging the use of pooled printers 70% of working hours in sedentary Self-service printing careers and consistently gone above-and-beyond and centrally placed water coolers, now in print behaviour, and those who were most the requirements of their role. and encouraging colleagues in the Design and Print Services have taken over management of A map of the Fruit Routes on campus has sedentary during the working day were same building to talk face-to-face self-service printing from IT Services. also most sedentary away from work. Steve Hughes, former Senior Finance Business been launched by the Sustainability Team. rather than by phone or email, could The change has been facilitated through a project led by the Partner, joined the University in 1984 as an The map is the culmination of three years’ work to Sedentary behaviour has proven links all help reduce the amount of time Change Team. accounting assistant within the finance team. to weight gain, obesity and chronic workers spend sedentary each day.” develop the Fruit Routes on campus by artist and IT Services and Design and Print Services will continue to diseases including Type 2 Diabetes, He retired in April this year. work closely together on service delivery, with Design and Print sustainability campaigner Anne-Marie Culhane, the cardiovascular disease and cancer. Sustainability Team, Grounds and Gardens, and the managing customer facing activities including the purchase Goff Tearle joined Loughborough in 1990, after Students’ Union’s Landscaping and Gardening of new devices, replenishment of consumables, the supplier a period as Chief Technician in the RAF. As Senior Society (LAGS). relationship and all financial matters. IT Services will continue Technical Tutor within Aeronautical and Automotive Online resource ‘Research to provide technical support to the service. Engineering, he has made a huge contribution to Loughborough is the first university to develop a the Department’s teaching. Fruit Route, and leading environmentalist Jonathon Professional’ now available The service complements those already available through Design and Print Services, including the over the counter Porritt has urged more academic institutions to follow The Research Office has taken out an The subscription is open to everyone Terry Neale joined the University in 1977, print services, based in the Manzoni building, and institutional subscription to Research at Loughborough and all academic Loughborough’s lead. While on campus to deliver online printing. working as an Electronics Technician in the a lecture as part of his role as a visiting professor, Professional – an online resource staff should have received details of department of Chemical Engineering up to his It is hoped that the service will continue to develop Jonathon said: “The Fruit Routes is a great initiative. I providing a comprehensive database personal log in information. Training retirement in October last year. love the way it is building bridges between the University of research funding opportunities, sessions have already been organised under the new management with the provision of advanced usage reporting for all schools, departments and professional and the surrounding community, with a lot of the route access to Research Fortnight, and and future events will be run on research policy and practice news demand. services to ensure that the best value for money is achieved. running along the edge of the campus boundary.” from around the world. Further information is available Details of all the print services are available at Find out more: Email: [email protected] Research-informed teaching Staff can set up email alerts to from Kristen Clements www.lboro.ac.uk/services/printing-services Twitter: @fruitroutes stay informed of the latest funding ([email protected]) awards presented Blog: www.fruitroutesloughborough.wordpress.com All enquiries, requests and fault reporting relating to print opportunities and/or news articles in should now be directed to [email protected] The University’s Research-Informed Teaching Awards were their chosen area. presented at the summer degree ceremonies. The awards take place annually to recognise and celebrate Loughborough academics who have demonstrated excellence in research- Loughborough Initiative informed teaching. Tribute to Dr Ann O’Brien This year’s recipients were: wins Times Higher ICT award Dr Ann O’Brien from the School of Business and Economics Professor Jo Bullard (Geography), who is developing innovative ways died suddenly at the end of May. She had worked for of using external data from NASA to help develop her students as In June Loughborough won the Departmental The award was presented the University since 1989 and had built up extensive to Loughborough for an researchers. The panel commended Jo on the high quality of her teaching ICT Initiative of the Year award at the 2014 experience in teaching and research in the organisation and research and the way in which she helps students to engage. Times Higher Education Leadership and initiative that streamlined of information. the ICT admin and Management Awards – known as the ‘THELMAS’. Professor Graham Matthews, Head of the Information Dr Marcus Collins (Politics, History and International Relations), who is management practices for Management Discipline Group, said of Ann: “Students and developing a national reputation for the impact he is having on student The THELMAs celebrate the sector’s leadership, student placements across colleagues were the beneficiaries of her warm, cheerful learning. His work was commended by the panel for the way his research management, financial and business skills, and the School of Aeronautical, Automotive, personality and her generosity of spirit. She took full part in informed his teaching and encouraged students to develop themselves showcase the innovation, teamwork and commercial Chemical and Materials Engineering (AACME). The the staff /student events and student respect for her was as engaged researchers. acumen of higher education institutions. system is now being rolled out across the University. evident in the range of activities in which she participated. The Departmental ICT Initiative of the Year award The University’s Centre for Engineering and Design She listened to students and offered them positive support, Professor Malcolm Cook (Civil and Building Engineering), who is advice and wisdom when they needed it. She was a valued recognises a team’s innovative use of ICT to improve Education (CEDE) worked closely with AACME in the fostering student engagement, especially through his use of relevant and colleague and friend and will be greatly missed by all those appropriate case studies. His work was commended by the panel for the both its own departmental performance and that of development of the project. who knew her.” way it helped students engage in a variety of ways which were appropriate the institution. to their industry and encouraged them to develop as researchers. 8 focus focus 9

GOOD FEEDBACK MAKING FROM FINALISTS

STUDENT FURTHER OPTIMUM INCOME TO INVEST ENHANCEMENTS IN LEARNING AND IN LEARNING TEACHING VOICES HEARD EXPERIENCE

RAISED PROFILE TURNING WORDS OPTIMUM AND REPUTATION NUMBERS OF INTO ACTION The National Student Survey Now in its tenth year, the NSS seeks final HIGH-PERFORMING Some of the improvements the University has made APPLICANTS (NSS) is an annual census of year students’ feedback on the quality of as a result of students’ feedback. their courses. nearly half a million students STUDYING LIVING across the UK. It gives them a The survey consists of 23 questions, relating to six key aspects of the All Schools and Departments are Falkner-Eggington Court has been powerful collective voice to help student learning experience – teaching, working to a feedback turnaround on modernised and provides ’budget coursework within 3 weeks. plus’ accommodation. shape the future of their course assessment and feedback, academic support, organisation and management, The Library has undergone a £4.5 To meet student demand for self- and the university as a whole. million transformation. As part of this catered accommodation, some blocks learning resources and personal Newsatlboro takes a look at how Level 4 of the building was integrated in David Collett and Faraday were development. There are also questions into the Library to provide 300 extended and refurbished to become Loughborough fared in the 2014 about students’ overall satisfaction with additional study spaces, including 70 part of the self-catered Telford Hall. WHY THE NSS for silent study. The number of open survey, the results of which were their course and their satisfaction with the Elvyn Richards underwent a phased access computers was increased to students’ union. refurbishment to complete the self- published in August. IS IMPORTANT 200, with more short stay PCs and catered Village Court complex. The NSS is one of the most important externally-driven better access for groups. initiatives for the University, says Professor Morag Bell, Several lecture theatres have been LEISURE refurbished – T003 in the Wolfson 77% 89% As part of the redevelopment of OVERALL SATISFACTION Pro Vice Chancellor (Teaching). building has been refitted; one of TOOK PART East Park, Martin Hall Square Eighty-nine percent of Loughborough’s students, the Edward Herbert Building lecture Almost 77% of Loughborough’s final “Our finalists’ feedback makes a real difference to the learning will be transformed into a fully compared with a national average of 86%, are satisfied theatres has been extended to create year undergraduates completed the experience for other Loughborough students, both now and in the pedestrianised public plaza, which will overall with their course, placing the University in the top tiered seating for up to 400 students; survey, compared to the national average future and it is critical to others’ perceptions of us. also be used for special events such 15% of the 156 UK higher education institutions that a former storage and office space in response rate of 71%. as graduations, markets and outdoor took part in the survey. the James France building has been “The results contribute to driving improvements in the curriculum, theatre/musical performances. 88% teaching and learning quality, learning resources and academic support converted into a 120-seat tiered ORGANISATION & MANAGEMENT – areas which are fundamental to our students’ academic experience. lecture theatre; and a tiered lecture The new health and fitness centre on Eighty-eight percent of Loughborough students theatre has been provided in the the West Park area of campus, which were satisfied with the organisation and “They help prospective students make informed choices about where Brockington building. is now open, offers courts for inter-hall management of their course, significantly ahead of and what to study. The results are included in the Key Information Set competitions and gym equipment, for the sector average of 79%. 92% (KIS) for every HEI on the Unistats website – the official site to search EMPLOYABILITY those who don’t want to participate in competitive sport. LEARNING RESOURCES for and compare data and information on university courses across the The Placement Scheme has been Loughborough students rated the University UK. They also influence the UK national league tables. extended to offer additional flexible, In each of the eight core particularly well for its learning resources, with Preparations are already 92% of them, compared with the UK average “Each year Schools, Professional Services and the Students’ Union professional work experience – such as day-release schemes, vacation underway for next year’s areas, Loughborough’s of just 85%, saying they were satisfied with encourage finalists to participate in the survey; they work hard to placements, and opportunities to National Student Survey, and results in the 2014 survey the library resources, the IT services and the promote the results and to respond to the outcomes as part of our OUT study abroad – to all students. information about the 2015 are higher than the UK specialist facilities and equipment. quality cycle. It is rewarding for colleagues to see some very strong 9 OF 10 campaign will be sent out in sector average results this year and thank you to all.” The Studio was launched to help STUDENTS’ UNION nurture graduates’ business ideas the coming weeks. Nine out of ten Loughborough and turn them into commercially students were satisfied with viable products, services or social the Students’ Union. enterprises. 10 focus focus 11

“STEMM subjects tend to be male-dominated and can be Assessing the impact perceived as difficult environments for female progression,” said Dr Munir. “Across the sector this perception is sometimes of Athena SWAN accurate, with biased workload allocation and male academics LET’S faring better in career development and progression. STEMM In May this year, Loughborough researchers revealed that the Athena SWAN Charter “Our research found that in STEMM departments that hold does advance gender equality and change an Athena SWAN award, there is less gender bias and better THE LEAKY PIPELINE the working culture and attitudes within career satisfaction for both men and women.” participating departments and universities. The importance of the awards has also now been recognised The ECU had commissioned the team to undertake an by the Department of Health, who say that in the future the The Athena SWAN Charter is a national initiative which, independent assessment of the impact and benefit of the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) would not expect 11% Athena SWAN charter on all participating higher education to shortlist any NHS-university partnership for biomedical ultimately, aims to increase the number of women working institutions and the wider sector. research funding unless the academic department holds at least a silver Athena SWAN award. in STEMM subjects in academia – Science, Technology, The research was undertaken by Dr Fehmidah Munir, Hilary Engineering, Maths and Medicine. McDermott and Carolynne Mason from Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences (SSEHS), Professor Barbara Bagilhole from Launched in 2005, and run by the Equality Challenge Unit, Athena SWAN Social Sciences, and Mary Nevill and John Morris, formerly evolved from the work of two influential initiatives – the Athena Project and of SSEHS. the Scientific Women’s Academic Network (SWAN), both of which aimed to Just 11% of According to Dr Munir, higher education tends to mirror advance the representation of women in STEMM. STEMM business the general UK workforce pattern. Women are usually well Athena SWAN helps universities and research institutions to create more owners are women. represented in universities, but there is a lack of women in equitable working environments for women in STEMM and rewards institutions senior positions, particularly in academic posts. And there that are making positive steps by presenting them with bronze, silver and are also differences between disciplines, with women heavily gold awards. represented in language-based studies and lightly represented Fewer than one in ten STEMM managers 13% in STEMM. in the workplace are female. The scheme now has 114 members from around the UK, including numerous universities and leading research organisations such as the Natural History Museum and the British Geological Survey. Just 13% of those working in occupations All members sign up to the Charter’s six principles. They pledge to take action at both organisational and departmental levels, monitor their progress and put classed as STEMM are women. in place plans to improve women’s participation and progression in STEMM.

Get involved The number of Bronze, silver, and Throughout the year the Athena SWAN team female professors in one day gold? at Loughborough coordinate a number of events and activities to celebrate women in Loughborough’s STEMM Loughborough was one of the founding STEMM and inspire those who work right schools has increased members of the Athena SWAN Charter in across the University. 2005. It has held an institutional Bronze Organisations recognise the from 6% in 2007 to 27% of science and award since 2009 and this was recently challenges and have planned One such event was the first-ever Claudia Parsons Memorial 12% in 2013. renewed as part of the November 2014 activities to address them. Lecture, held at the start of 2014 as part of a brand new engineering technicians, 15% award round. series for Athena SWAN. Claudia Parsons was a student at of ICT professionals and 5.5% Loughborough College from 1919-22, and was one of the first In 2013 the School of Sport, Exercise and women to receive a diploma in Automobile Engineering. She FIND OUT MORE of engineering professionals Health Sciences successfully applied for a Holders have taken action became the first woman to circumnavigate the world by car The Athena SWAN team: are female. Silver award and in 2014 Loughborough to address the challenges and are assessing the impact and wrote about her experience in a number of influential DR KATRYNA KALAWSKY – Athena SWAN Project Officer Design School was awarded Bronze. of their actions. travel books. Several other Schools and Departments LIZ QUIMBY-FOUNTAIN – Athena SWAN Project Assistant have also committed to making a The first Claudia Parsons Memorial Lecture was given by submission in 2015 (Maths Education renowned space scientist and The Sky At Night TV presenter ABIDA AKRAM – Staff Development Adviser (Equality Organisations are able to Dr Maggie Aderin-Pocock. and Diversity) Centre, Mathematical Sciences, Civil and demonstrate a substantial Building Engineering, School of Electronic, and well-established record Drawing on her own experience, Dr Aderin-Pocock talked to a PROFESSOR STEVE ROTHBERG – (Pro Vice Chancellor for Electrical and Systems Engineering, of working towards equality packed audience about how a change in female representation Enterprise) is the Athena SWAN University Champion in career progression in in STEMM could be achieved. She also recounted some of Aeronautical, Automotive, Chemical and For more information about the Athena SWAN Charter Materials Engineering). STEMM, and act as beacons the pioneering women in space science, as well as her own of best practice. at Loughborough, including the contact details of adventures and triumphs. The awards, available at both institutional coordinators within Schools and details of events and and departmental levels, recognise and training opportunities, go to the University’s Athena SWAN celebrate good practice in recruiting, retaining and web pages at www.lboro.ac.uk/athena-swan Or for more promoting women in STEMM in HE. They are valid general information go to the Equalities Challenge Unit site for three years. www.ecu.ac.uk/athena-swan 12 research research 13

ENABLING TECHNOLOGIES HEALTH AND WELLBEING New technologies need to be driven by the very best ideas, Major health challenges are an escalating problem for fit for purpose, targeted and efficient to enhance lives, the UK. Ill health has a negative impact on the quality of economics and societies. life of both patients and their families and dependants and the spiralling costs of healthcare are a huge Loughborough’s research underpins society’s efforts to remain THE GREATEST challenge at a time of severe economic constraint. equipped to face a range of challenges, not least the reduction of scarce resources, environmental impact and an ageing population. Building on Loughborough’s excellence in advanced The University’s multi-disciplinary research is concerned with manufacturing and materials, and its world-leading reputation in developing ideas and pulling them through to cutting-edge sports science, the University addresses the broad dimensions manufacturing solutions, technologies and materials innovations. of health and wellbeing through the application of its expertise CHALLENGES in design, engineering, sport and manufacturing to regenerative OF OUR TIME medicine and lifestyle interventions. CASE STUDY Loughborough research has of lasers to clean and preserve helped to make laser cleaning highly valued artefacts. Using Loughborough is renowned for the relevance of its research, a standard technique for a variety of spectroscopic and conservators worldwide and surface analysis techniques, they which is driven by society’s need to address real-world issues. has been instrumental in the demonstrated lasers’ ability to preservation and restoration clean a wide range of materials Its diverse strengths have now been complemented by six of World Heritage sites such including stonework, bone and interdisciplinary Research Challenges, launched earlier this year, Find out more about the as the Acropolis at Athens and parchment, without damaging an important works of art including object’s surface, unlike traditional to accelerate the delivery of distinctive solutions to regional, Research Challenges at pieces by Henry Moore and methods. www.lboro.ac.uk/ Jacob Epstein. national and international issues. Newsatlboro takes a look at research/challenges Laser cleaning has now been CASE STUDY From 1993 into the early 2000s, widely adopted throughout the each of the Challenges. Loughborough’s laser optics global heritage industry. Loughborough research into high recognisability of police vehicles. researchers investigated the use risk vehicle markings has improved Subsequent research has looked road safety across the UK. at police motorcycles and other specialist road vehicles. The initial research, to develop SECURE AND RESILIENT ENERGY the UK’s first national livery for The outcomes of the research have SOCIETIES COMMUNICATION, CULTURE Society’s use of energy has created one of our police vehicles, was undertaken created a standardisation in the greatest challenges – global climate change. in the early 90s. It successfully markings of vehicles, dubbed the Societies around the world face major potential AND CITIZENSHIP created a scientifically derived and ‘Battenberg scheme’ due to its environmental hazards and human-induced threats, Communication and culture can both unite Loughborough is drawing together scientists, engineers, validated motorway patrol vehicle resemblance to the cake, which and must put in place risk reduction strategies, prepare and divide communities. Understanding the social scientists and economists to carry out research marking standard which would has now been adopted by other against future adversity, and develop ways of responding processes through which inclusion and exclusion to reduce energy demand, increase energy efficiency in enhance the conspicuousness and UK emergency services. rapidly and effectively in times of crisis. buildings, industry and transport and to develop new, occur can create more equal and just societies Loughborough’s researchers are helping to ensure that a range of affordable and low-carbon energy technologies. where people can flourish. organisations have the ability to respond effectively and rapidly Loughborough’s research addresses the problematics, to crisis situations, by developing their resilience, aiding their performance and practices of inclusion. CHANGING ENVIRONMENTS AND decision-making and developing technologies for use in the field. INFRASTRUCTURE Countries are facing challenges from climate change, natural hazards, water shortages and environmental pollution, against a backdrop of population growth, increasing migration and urbanisation. By joining Loughborough’s understanding of environmental processes and their impacts on land, water and the atmosphere with its research on design, construction and operation of critical Three major projects confirmed civil infrastructure, Loughborough is able to provide the scientific that many people would pay for evidence base, practical skills and experience needed to identify piped-water services, but that and implement sustainable solutions. the cost – particularly the initial CASE STUDY CASE STUDY installation charge – was too CASE STUDY high. The work also established Fuel cell technology research on Loughborough University CASE STUDY a methodology for implementing originated at Loughborough in Science and Enterprise Parks Less than 20% of the population Town centres perform a vital shop. They found the town’s Water Safety Plans. 1988 and the ground-breaking – was launched to explore the Slope ALARMS can detect and as the slope deforms and in sub-Saharan Africa use social and economic role in local atmosphere, shop personnel work has given rise to a new pre-commercial development of warn about potentially devastating provides updates and warnings piped water. In urban areas, The findings formed the basis communities, yet increasing and how much consumers generation of clean power prototype fuel cells. landslides. Developed and via text messages. non-piped sources – including of the Ugandan National Water competition, including online enjoyed the shopping experience patented in partnership with the boreholes, springs and hand-dug and Sewerage Corporation’s systems. There are now 12 Slope ALARMS sales, has driven shop vacancies were major factors in shoppers’ Intelligent Energy now provides British Geological Survey, the novel wells – are highly susceptible to change-management programmes sensors in the UK, Europe and to an all-time high. decision-making. In 1995, the research team low-carbon fuel cell systems for technology is low-cost and more contamination. – resulting in improved services constructed the first 1kW proton global partners in the consumer Canada, improving safety in Research from Loughborough The research has been cited sensitive and reliable than existing for existing customers and exchange membrane fuel cell, electronics, automotive and places like UK and Alpine railways, Research conducted by experts looked at consumers’ perceptions in several trade reports, most systems. A battery-powered sensor encouraging thousands of new and spin-out company Advanced distributed power and generation highways and settlements on from Loughborough has helped of the town as a whole to notably by the British Retail – attached to a steel tube which households to access safe piped Power Sources – now Intelligent markets. coastal slopes. more than one million people to understand what influenced Consortium and the Association is imbedded in the unstable slope water services. Energy with its headquarters access safe urban water services – their decisions about where to of Town and City Management. – measures the acoustic emission enhancing their health and quality of life. 14 focus focus 15

FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS my.HR is changing! The University’s iTrent support team is working closely with the software suppliers to deliver a new look and feel to the system. The new version of my.HR was due to go live as newsatlboro went to print and will deliver a more modern look that incorporates slicker ways to access information. Additional features will include: Extended coverage: access to my.HR was initially introduced for employees paid via the monthly and four-weekly payroll. It is now being extended to University Teachers paid via the claims payroll and off-campus access will be available. This follows the recent Change Team/HR project my.HR to improve methods of communication, employment, reward and payment for this staff group. Holiday bookings: future development to create a streamlined, cross University process for booking and recording holidays. Expense claims: future plans will see this incorporated into my.HR, taking expense claims online. Individuals will submit their claim through my.HR which will then trigger a departmental approval process. This will facilitate speedier processing and allow the payments to be made with salaries.

FEEDBACK The HR team are continuously working with their suppliers to improve Employee Self Service (my.HR) was launched the ‘my.HR’ user experience and previous feedback has been used in in 2012. The system is widely used throughout developing the recent changes to the system. There has also already been some very positive feedback from pilot users: the University. With an impressive makeover Access to my.HR is via a link on the University due as newsatlboro went to print we put the home page and staff are strongly system under the spotlight to see what it offers encouraged to review their personal “I loved the new system. members of staff, and what is coming next. information periodically to ensure it Much easier to use” remains up to date. “The new version looks my.HR allows staff to: great and is easy ✔✔ View and download payslips and P60s (past and current) to navigate” “This looks a lot clearer and ✔✔ Add or amend contact details, including emergency THE BENEFITS OF contacts ONLINE INFORMATION easier to use, as a new comer ✔✔ View and update sensitive personal information this version was simple and (eg equality data) my.HR allows staff to take control of easy to navigate” ✔✔ Supply HESA personal data (eg Academic Teaching their own financial and other records. Qualifications, Academic Discipline) ✔✔ Access is available 24/7 ✔ ✔ View absence data ✔✔ Information can be accessed remotely, anywhere in “Wow, love it. When can ✔✔ Access training and development opportunities the world if necessary! we start using it?” ✔✔ View courses attended ✔✔ Online access removes the need to consult the payroll, HR or Professional Development teams in many situations ✔✔ Security has improved – payslips are no longer left in pigeon holes or around the workplace* The all new my.HR will be rolled out to all users in the coming months. Additional comments are welcome. *Please note it is the responsibility of individual members of staff to retrieve historical payslips upon leaving the University Please let the HR team know your as access to my.HR expires on the last day of employment. thoughts by emailing (Please see the HR webpage – Leaving the University for more information.) [email protected] 16 focus focus 17

IF LOUGHBOROUGH WAS A COUNTRY WE WOULD HAVE FINISHED AHEAD OF JAMAICA AND KENYA IN TERMS OF THE NUMBER OF GLASGOW TOTAL MEDALS WON

IF LOUGHBOROUGH WAS A COUNTRY WE WOULD HAVE FINISHED 2014 11TH ON THE MEDAL TABLE Over the summer, a team of Inside track: past and present students and Loughborough-based athletes Sarah Holt Sarah Holt combines being a hammer thrower headed for Glasgow to compete with working for the University as a Sports Business Coordinator. She gives newsatlboro in the 2014 Commonwealth her insight into what it was like to compete at ATHLETES COMPETING BY SPORT the Glasgow … Games. Newsatlboro takes a Was Glasgow a home Games for us English look back on their achievements. athletes? Absolutely! The experience of competing at Hampden Park to a myriad of St George’s flags is without doubt the highlight of my athletics career. The energy from the crowd was incredible. Dancing to the Proclaimers with nearly 50,000 people singing at the top of their voices was also a lot of fun! GOLD My qualifying session was to a full house. One of my main thought processes going into the Vicky Holland Triathlon, mixed team relay day was to stay in control of my emotions. Fran Halsall Swimming, 50m freestyle and Even though I have thrown in packed stadiums SILVER 50m butterfly previously I knew that the adrenaline would be Dan Greaves Athletics, discus F42/44 ridiculous, I wanted to enjoy the crowd and the Fran Halsall and Amy Smith Swimming, women’s home support whilst competing. 4x100m freestyle relay Libby Clegg Athletics, 100m T12 BRONZE Vicky Holland Triathlon, women’s I qualified for the final with the distance of my Georgia Davies Swimming, 100m backstroke Sam Oldham Gymnastics, men’s team event individual event opening throw. But I knew for the final that my Georgia Davies Swimming, 50m backstroke Bethany Woodward Athletics, T37/38 Liam Tancock Swimming, 100m backstroke focus had to improve. Lauren Smith Badminton, mixed team event Adam Barrett Swimming, men’s 4x100m and 50m backstroke WHICH SPORT ARE YOU MADE FOR? medley relay The biggest challenge of throwing is that to Adam Gemili Athletics, 100m Adam Barrett Swimming, 100m butterfly Researchers from Loughborough helped the BBC to devise an online test that throw further you must relax your body more. Steve Lewis Athletics, allowed people to determine which of the Commonwealth Games’ 22 sports Laura Samuel Athletics, and men’s 4x100m freestyle relay The harder you try the worse you throw. I they might be best at. William Sharman Athletics, 100m hurdles Molly Renshaw Swimming, 200m breaststroke couldn’t afford to tense up and I was very Sophie Hitcon Athletics, hammer The light-hearted quiz was part of the BBC’s Get Inspired campaign, a conscious of trying to stay relaxed and hit key Fran Halsall Swimming, women’s 4x100m technical positions. medley relay Mark Dry Athletics, hammer London 2012 legacy initiative to encourage more people to participate in sport and activity. Isobel Pooley Athletics, Anyika Onuora Athletics, women’s 4x400m relay I finished the competition in fourth place. But I was happy. My preparations had been hampered Lynsey Sharp Athletics, 800m Sally Scott Athletics, pole vault The test asked players to rate their physical and mental attributes on a scale For full details of Loughborough’s of one to ten. Their three closest matched sports were then revealed. due to a calf tear in late March and I considered Tiffany Porter Athletics, 100m hurdles achievements go to the Lauren Smith Badminton, women’s doubles myself fortunate to have been on the field Adam Gemili, Harry Aikines-Aryeetey and Nick Caitlin, David Condon, Mark Gleghorne, To develop the quiz, the researchers from the School of Sport, Exercise and competing. I felt like I could leave knowing that Richard Kilty Athletics, men’s 4x100m relay Commonwealth Games website , and Health Sciences drew up an initial list of the physical and mental attributes that performance was the best I could do on the , , www.lboro.ac.uk/glasgow2014 Hockey crucial to success in sport, with each sport in the Commonwealth Games then day, for me that meant that I could hold my head and Hockey Darryl Selby Squash, men’s doubles rated against these attributes. up high and be proud of myself. 18 sport and health sport and health 19

Student sport Loughborough Sport experience recognised competes in new National University at CUBO Awards Badminton League provides home Loughborough’s recreational sport programme has Loughborough Sport is competing in the new National been recognised at the Annual CUBO (College and Badminton League (NBL) – the UK’s first ever professional venue for University Business Officers) Awards, which recognise the national league – which started this autumn. achievements of those working within the higher education The game-changing NBL began on 6 October and matches Riders industry. are being televised live on Sky Sports, as well as globally to over 10 million homes in 16 countries via Eurosport Asia- Leicester Riders and The University was Loughborough have agreed a joint winner of Pacific. Matches will also be streamed live on the Internet. the Excellence The league a partnership that will see in Student Sport matches include all Riders British Basketball Experience, a new a new game League (BBL) home games award for 2014. format, unique return to the University for scoring system and the 2014-15 season. The creation dynamic in-game of My Lifestyle features. Gold medallist praises has developed a programme of regular recreational Loughborough This agreement will see both the Vice Chancellor Professor Robert Allison sporting activities and classes, with an emphasis on Leicester Riders BBL teams play on commented: “We are renowned for Peter Harrison Centre participation rather than performance. My Lifestyle has Sport is one of six teams in the league. campus for a single season before sport. Therefore it was appropriate for Colleagues at the Peter Harrison Centre for Disability Sport are to also been significant in creating dedicated recreational moving into a new venue for the 2015- us to provide the Riders, one of the best facilities or ‘Parks’ across campus that give students and continue supporting British Para-Alpine Skiing after the team 16 season. known and most successful sporting staff the opportunity to organise and play unstructured teams in Leicestershire, with a home returned from a successful 2014 Sochi Winter The programme, a partnership between activities for free. The latest development to support venue for next season. with five medals. recreational sport is the £5.6 million Holywell Fitness A Lightning return for the Riders, University, Loughborough Kelly Gallagher and guide Charlotte Evans ended Britain’s 38-year wait for a Centre, situated at the west end of campus. College and Loughborough Students’ “Not only will this agreement build on our Union, has created a player pathway existing partnership with the Riders, it first ever gold medal in skiing at the Winter Games after winning the women’s Dawn Cooper, My Lifestyle Coordinator at Loughborough, new head coach Super G event. and academic opportunity for talented will also give our students, staff and local said: “It’s really humbling to get this award from CUBO Netball Superleague team Loughborough Lightning basketball players. community the opportunity to watch top In May the Centre welcomed back members of the team into the laboratory for recognising the work of My Lifestyle, the Sport Experience have appointed Loughborough alumna Karen flight basketball on our campus.” It has also seen the Riders utilise physiological profile testing in preparation for the new season which began Team, and also our wider sporting offer. Atkinson as their new head coach. in September. facilities at the University and College for The Leicester Riders began the BBL “I’m delighted that this award has been voted for by Karen had an illustrious international career, representing training sessions and events including regular season against Manchester Speaking about the support the Centre has provided, Charlotte Evans said: peers from across other universities, who recognise that in 122 matches, which made her the second recruitment days. Giants on 27 September at the “I think that it has made us more professional. It’s a great opportunity for our Loughborough are leading the way and are one of the best most capped player in English history. She won three University. team to have the best facilities and work with great people.” at providing a positive student sport experience. Commonwealth Games bronze medals in 1998, 2006 and “We will continue to drive student sport forward, to provide 2010, and two World Championship bronze medals in 1999 On winning the Olympic gold medal Charlotte added: “It’s a team effort. It’s never and 2011. an individual medal or a single win. There are a lot of people involved in getting even more opportunities to play, compete and have fun, University confirmed University said: you there and Loughborough has been a major part in letting us know how fit whilst at the same time create a sporting habit for life for She also played for Loughborough Lightning, before moving to “I am delighted we are throughout the season.” our students that will continue after University.” Hertfordshire Mavericks, whom she has been coaching since as an official Team that Loughborough her retirement as a player. Base for Rugby University has been She said: “I am extremely grateful to have spent the last eight selected as an official years playing and coaching at Hertfordshire Mavericks, the World Cup 2015 Team Base for Rugby Loughborough coach named in opportunities it has given me and the fantastic people I have World Cup 2015, been able to work with. Loughborough University has been and that we will British Para-Swimming support team confirmed a Team Base for Rugby host some of the Loughborough Swimming’s Steve Bayley has been selected to work with “However it feels fitting to come back to Loughborough where World Cup 2015. teams who will be the British Para-Swimming team in the lead up to the Rio 2016 I started my Superleague career and I am excited about the playing matches 41 Team Bases have been selected Paralympic Games. new challenges it will bring.” in the Midlands for the 20 nations competing in the region. Steve, who is one of ten coaches selected to the Coach to Rio programme, has Karen was the Athlete Representative for Team England and Tournament being held between technical coach to the England Netball squad at the Glasgow September and October next year. “We have built attended a number of major championships and worked with some of the best 2014 Commonwealth Games. swimmers in the country, including Paralympic gold medallist Ellie Simmonds our reputation Loughborough will be a Team Base for on sporting excellence who has been part of the Loughborough set-up since August 2013. She was awarded an MBE for services to netball in the 2014 Namibia, Tonga and Uruguay. New Year’s honours list. and have vast experience of hosting Speaking of his selection Steve said: “I am delighted to have been given this The Team Base will consist of outdoor elite teams that have competed at opportunity to support our Paralympic swimmers who are currently working The new Superleague season begins in the New Year, with pitches and indoor training facilities global sporting events. Lightning playing their first home match against Celtic Dragons hard in preparation for the Rio 2016 Games. comprising the Sir David Wallace Sports “Therefore we look forward to on 9 February. Hall, 50 metre swimming pool and “I hope that my knowledge and experience can be utilised to support the welcoming teams onto our campus and Ticket details can be found here: Powerbase gym. supporting their preparations for the programme, and I look forward to playing my part in helping the swimmers http://loughboroughsport.com/loughborough-lightning/ Tournament.” to be successful at the Games.” Ben Aherne, Sports Business fixturesandresults Development Manager at Loughborough events in the 9 December, 8pm NEWS... December National Theatre Live – JOHN 3 December, 7.30pm Cope Auditorium University Choir Christmas Standing room only? National Theatre Live – JOHN Research from Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences Concert 10 December, 5pm (SSEHS) is looking at whether standing desks can Cope Auditorium Inaugural lecture: Professor improve students’ performance in schools. Andrew Morris January ITV, The Times, Daily Express, Daily Mail, Daily Star, 8 December, 5pm Stewart Mason Building, 17 January, 2pm Daily Mirror Carol Service SMB014 Rugby: RFU National Rigg-Rut Fountain League 1 – Loughborough 10 December, 10am-4pm Students v Fylde Helping arthritis Christmas farmers market 1st XV rugby pitch sufferers Front of Martin Hall Academics from the Design School have developed a 21 January, 7.30pm computer software concept that will enable clinicians to 13 December, 2pm Concert: Laura van der design and make custom 3D printed wrist splints to help arthritis sufferers. Rugby: RFU National League Heijden and Tom Poster 1 – Loughborough Students Cope Auditorium Science Daily, Arthritis Research v Tynedale 1st XV rugby pitch 22 January, 8pm National Theatre Live – Do athletes make better Treasure Island Inaugural lecture: students? Professor Ian Henry from SSEHS says having an outlet Professor Andrew Morris Cope Auditorium other than sport helps athletes put their training and performance into perspective. For more events and further details see: The Guardian www.lboro.ac.uk/events First look at a royal skeleton Archives The 3D printed skeleton of King Richard III, created by a team led by Professor Russell Harris from Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, is likely to be a popular With the 20th Commonwealth Games held 1998 Kuala Lumpur draw at the new exhibition in Leicester. in Glasgow this year, newsatlboro looks University graduates The Daily Telegraph back on just a few of Loughborough’s Olivia Murphy and Karen golden moments through the years. Aspinall were part of the England squad that claimed bronze For lecturers, there is 1954 Vancouver in the first ever netball life beyond death by Physical Education graduate Ken Jones won competition held during Olivia Murphy PowerPoint bronze for Wales in the 220 yard . Ken the Games. David Roberts from Politics, History and International was not only a fine sprinter who won a silver Relations writes about the impact of images in medal in the 4 x 100 relay at the 1948 London 2002 Manchester presentations. Olympic Games, but also represented Wales Times Higher Education and the British Lions in rugby union. Competing for England, graduate James Gibson won gold and bronze in the 50m and 100m breaststroke. In 2006 1970 in Melbourne he claimed silver in the Budget transatlantic won gold for England in the 100m event. James has now returned to flights are a tough nut 400m hurdles, the event that he also claimed Loughborough as lead coach for British to crack a bronze medal in at the Mexico 1968 Olympic Swimming’s National Sprint Programme. Lucy Budd and Stephen Ison from Civil and Building Games. Seb Coe has described John, who For a round-up of Loughborough at Engineering, consider whether transatlantic ‘no frills’ studied Physical Education, and his wife, long flights are feasible. jumper Sheila Sherwood, as his inspiration for Glasgow 2014, take a look at the feature pursuing athletics. on p16. The Conversation Working up a sweat Academics from SSEHS worked with the Football Association and the England football team in the run up to the world cup to produce tailored recovery drinks for players. The Guardian, The Telegraph, BBC, The Times, James Gibson Sky Sports, Daily Mail, Daily Mirror, The Sun, The Ken Jones John-Sherwood Independent, The National UAE, Daily Express.