NEWS 1 167 buzz

OUR

IMPACTThe Economic, Social and Cultural Impact of the University of

April/May 2017 2 PVC’S VIEW

Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Research and Knowledge Transfer’s view

Delivering excellence and impact through the end of the Horizon 2020 programme. European and international engagement and The details of how we will participate in collaboration in research has never been as EU programmes are uncertain though, and important as it is . It is therefore important we must be prepared to have to work that we understand that Brexit should not harder to maintain our place at the be seen as a barrier to maintaining and of multilateral European partnerships. enhancing our connections with international Whereas our position as a full-member state researchers, both across continental Europe enabled participation in EU programmes and beyond. Many of us at the University through ‘bottom-up’ interactions without have been participants in EU-funded strategic intervention, we may need to collaborations for a number of years – over be more coy about identifying who our 25 years in my own case – and have not strongest partners in Europe are, both in only benefited from the academic outcomes, universities and industry, and establishing but have also built up genuine friendships more strategic agreements with them. with colleagues across a wide range of We will also need to continue to build EU states. In my view, the most critical partnerships outside Europe – as write Professor Tim Softley, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for qualities to ensure successful international this editorial, I am on a plane bound for Research and Knowledge Transfer collaborations and partnerships are trust and Chicago to visit the University of Illinois openness. Such qualities always take time to at Urbana-Champaign with a group from be established in academic groupings, given our Research Leaders’ Programme. The our natural competitiveness, but I believe that BRIDGE partnership with UIUC already YOUR BUZZ the sustained period of our participation in acts as an umbrella for over 60 bottom-up a sequence of funded European framework collaborations, and will surely position us Next edition 7 June 2017 programmes has enabled the building of that well if the government broadens its support Copy deadline 11 May 2017 open and trusting collaborative environment for international research engagement. Contact us that makes us the envy of researchers Within this issue you will find a highlight [email protected] outside Europe. Perhaps in the early days article on our office in Brussels and the we were just ‘in it for the money’ but now facilities and benefits you can gain by using Buzz online we are ‘in it for the science’ and for the buzz.bham.ac.uk this free service to connect within Europe culture of friendship. And the opportunities and beyond. Maintaining this facility, together Follow us on Twitter provided for our students and early-career with access to internal European travel twitter.com/buzzunibham researchers to travel and exchange through funds for our researchers, demonstrates our Find us on Facebook programmes like Erasmus and the Marie commitment to enabling the continuation facebook.com/buzzunibham Skłodowska-Curie programmes has of these interactions irrespective of any embedded this culture strongly for the future. outcome of the Brexit negotiations. Indeed, Outcomes from the Brexit negotiations our presence in this office in Brussels in are a long way off, but it is extremely partnership with other universities and encouraging to see that science and organisations in the will also Edited by Matthew Collins innovation was specifically identified as one enhance our regional engagement, and help [email protected] of the government’s 12 priorities for their us to work more closely with local partners forthcoming Brexit talks. It is also clear that to sustain and increase the economic impact Your details the government understands the importance of the University’s business. At the same Please let us know if you want extra that we attach to international research time, the Brussels office offers opportunities copies of Buzz or if you think we need collaboration and to enabling the influx of for new relationships with partners outside to amend your distribution details. talented researchers from Europe. With this Europe who will join us in taking advantage in mind, we remain optimistic that the UK will of having a base at the heart of EU business. Views expressed in the magazine are indeed continue to be associated, in some The University of Birmingham places the not necessarily those of the University form at least, with European research and highest value on our future role as a global or a statement of University policy. education programmes, thereby enabling university and this vision must be played All submissions may be subject to our researchers and students to continue out through every aspect of our work. Our editing. The Editor’s decision is final. to thrive through cross-border interaction close relationship with our neighbours in the and mobility. And it is already guaranteed European Union will be a crucial aspect of that all EU funding coming to the UK will the University’s new international strategy, be honoured if it is formally agreed before and in ensuring our future global influence. Front cover image: Our Impact Brexit occurs – that effectively takes us to BIRMINGHAM GLOBAL 3

BIRMINGHAM GLOBAL Brazil – a hat-trick of firsts in March

As spring emerges on campus, the sights of International Relations during March were set firmly on Brazil and a month Opportunities for of firsts for the University. University staff to A region of strategic importance for University delegation visits key the University of Birmingham, our ever research partners in Brazil collaborate with Brazil deepening ties with Brazil were illustrated Professor Robin Mason, Pro-Vice- with the University’s first Brazil Week Chancellor (International), led a delegation Research funding call now open – and an overseas delegation visit to key of University academics and staff in deadline 24 April 2017 research partners, led by Professor Robin Brazil from 13 to 17 March in a week of The joint pump-priming research Mason, visiting Brazil for the first time engagements with key strategic partners. fund between the Universities of in his capacity as Pro-Vice-Chancellor The aims of the visit were to build on Birmingham, Nottingham, and FAPESP (International). This was also the first our strong research partnerships, and is now inviting proposals across all overseas trip supported by our to identify new opportunities for both academic disciplines. This represents internationally renowned Birmingham research collaboration and funding an opportunity to consolidate and foster Heroes campaign. with public and private organisations. relationships that facilitate long-term The visit included meetings with collaborative ties. Whilst tripartite Brazil Week 2017 contacts at the University of São Paulo applications are preferred, bipartite Celebrating our extensive research (USP) and São Paulo State University applications involving colleagues partnerships with top universities across (UNESP), as well as all major funding from the University of Birmingham Brazil, a week of exciting events in March agencies and government trade and and Brazilian, FAPESP-eligible for Brazil Week took place to celebrate industry bodies. colleagues will also be considered. Brazilian culture, ideas and research. An Academic Workshop hosted at Events ranged from insights into the São Paulo State University (UNESP) For more information about the call, world of diplomacy from both the current entitled ‘Identifying Research and Policy including eligibility, finance and Ambassador of Brazil to the UK, Eduardo Agendas for Sustainable Cities and deadlines visit dos Santos and the former Ambassador Energy Solutions’ showcased the Birmingham.ac.uk/brazil to Brazil, Alan Charlton, alongside research excellence at Birmingham in academic seminars on issues ranging these fields and scoped opportunities Travel fund for visits to Brazil from cultural identity to corruption for collaboration with Brazil in preparation This fund provides match-funding networks and lively discussions on for forthcoming research funding calls. costs related to visits to Brazil for the Brazilian literature and film. The week purpose of developing collaborations closed with a celebration evening of Birmingham Heroes arrive in Brazil with Brazilian institutions/organisations. live Brazilian music and performance. For the first time, the Birmingham Heroes The fund may also support visits by Peter Clack, Director of International campaign ‘We are tackling the energy individuals from Brazilian institutions Relations, said: ‘In recognition of our crisis’ was used overseas in support to the University where these may engagement and collaboration with of the delegation visit in March and the help develop collaboration. Brazil, we’re proud to celebrate our first Global Challenges Workshop. Utilising Brazil Week on campus with a range digital and social channels, the campaign For more information, please contact of exciting events.’ had individual targeting adapted to Brazil Richard Brunt, [email protected] and will grow our international reputation or on extension 47733. with key regional influencers and stakeholders. 4 NEWS NEWS

Dates for the diary

Birmingham Professional Forum Friday 19 May, 11.00am–12noon, Bramall Music Building. All staff are warmly invited to the forum, which is introduced by the Academic Registrar, Stephen McAuliffe. The festival agenda will follow closer to the event. BIRMINGHAM: YOUR PASSPORT TO THE WORLD

See our research brought to life as We’ll also be throwing the doors open we take you on a voyage of discovery so you can explore our world-famous across the globe! cultural attractions including the FREE fun for all the family where you Lapworth Museum of Geology, Elgar can explore our beautiful, historic campus Concert Hall, Barber Institute of Fine and enjoy events and activities throughout Arts, and our brand new library. the day. See for yourselves the great things that the University is doing for people in www.birmingham.ac.uk/ MESSAGE FROM PROFESSOR Birmingham and around the world. communityfestival TIM SOFTLEY, PRO-VICE-CHANCELLOR (RESEARCH AND KNOWLEDGE TRANSFER): SAVE THE DATE Sunday 11 June 2017, 11.00am–4.00pm I am writing to let you know that from time to time you may be invited by email to participate in University research projects. Facilitating high-quality research is vital to the success of our University, and we believe that allowing researchers the opportunity to recruit participants via staff and student email addresses is part of this. We also want colleagues and students to have the opportunity to participate in the research of the University if they wish. However, it is entirely up to you whether you choose to respond to such invitations and I would emphasise Don’t miss our spectacular performances and hands-on that you are under absolutely no workshops, culture trails, farmers’ and craft markets. obligation to do so.

Staff Fundraising Week raises over £5,000 get involved!

for early miscarriage research New Core, the University’s extensive programme to redesign core Finance, HR, and Payroll processes has carried out more A huge thank you to everyone who organised, baked, ate, than 90 workshops with colleagues across the University to quizzed and shaved! Together, we had over 25 events across discuss data, design and delivery needs of the new system. campus, raising an outstanding £5,002.79 for our research. Thank you to all colleagues who have attended these; but did Along with the raffle tickets sales from the BUAFTAS, nearly you know that there are plenty of other ways to get involved £10,000 has been raised and given hope to couples who in New Core? have experienced the heartbreak of early miscarriage. Your support will allow for a feasibility study for a new test n Join a User Reference Group to identify a cause of multiple early miscarriages. This in turn n Become a New Core Champion will help Professor Ari Coomarasamy and his team understand n Attend ‘Town Hall’ meetings why miscarriage happens, if it is likely to happen again, how n Feedback via email or intranet to prevent it and how to provide the appropriate aftercare. Input from Academic and Professional Services colleagues will be vital in ensuring that New Core meets the wide variety THANK YOU! of staff needs – don’t miss your chance to get involved! Please visit our website to read about what different departments got up to: www.birmingham.ac.uk/stafffundraising To find out more email the team at [email protected] NEWS NEWS 5

MAKING SPACE: Celebrating Women at the University of Birmingham

Launched on International Women’s Speaking at the launch event, former the opportunities for the future as Day, ‘Making Space’ celebrates the Home Secretary Jacqui Smith said: well as the narrowness of our past; achievements of inspiring women from (for the purposes of Buzz, we have that sends out an important and the University of Birmingham’s past, extracted highlights from her speech) encouraging message about the future present and future. The exhibition for young women – and men – who creates a positive platform for female It is right that we celebrate the diversity, are surrounded by them. figures today, and considers what we the contribution, and the symbolism of The theme for IWD 2017 is “Be Bold need to achieve in order to make a women’s roles in this [Making Spaces] for Change”. So I want to finish by better space for women on campus exhibition. asking what we can do during this year and beyond. The exhibition includes I’m glad that UoB is building on its to be bold for change: mentor a younger portrait photography by artist and history of supporting women’s education. woman; challenge all-male events and anthropologist Liz Hingley along with But in celebrating, we also need to panels; educate young men about ‘object portraits’ which consider how recognise what still needs to be done. stereotypes; and don’t get complacent. women are represented through Women are 35% more likely to go to Tonight is a celebration, but it’s also material culture. university than men, but only 24% of an opportunity to rededicate ourselves professors are women – and when those to ensuring that our teams and women graduate, they will still face a organisations are diverse and vibrant i gender pay gap. – and that our fellow women are m a K It matters that women are playing a supported and promoted. Thank you full part in leadership roles, in our public to everyone who shares that aim. 8 March n g and political life and in our universities. – 21 July 2017 Diversity isn’t just some ‘nice to have’. #UoBMakingSpace It’s fundamentally important that we a are using all the talent pool in our S P organisations. Stale groupthink means less innovative, less effective and less Visit the exhibition at: C e efficient organisations. The Rotunda, Aston Webb Building, The faces and images that surround Edgbaston campus Celebrating Women at the University of Birmingham us in buildings like this need to represent Open until 21 July FREE entry Liz HingLey Monday–Friday, 9.00am–6.00pm

Policy engagement for impact

In support of the policy impact agenda we will be hosting a of the European Commission will speak on Science into Policy, series of workshops and seminars in the coming months to and on 29 June from 12.30–1.30pm, Dr Fabiana Scapolo, help inform research colleagues of how, and why, they should Deputy Head of Unit Foresight, Behavioural Insight for Policy, think about policy engagement for impact. Sessions will also Joint Research Centre of the European Commission, will be open for Professional Services colleagues who support speak on Horizon Scanning and Foresight as a tool to support policy engagement. EU policy making. This month we will welcome the Houses of Parliament Outreach service who will run a session on How Parliament Please watch College, Planning and Public Affairs Works. The session will take place on April 20, 1.30–5.00pm, communications channels for information on how to register First Floor Muirhead Tower. for these workshops. In the meantime you can email your policy On 2 May and 8 May we will be holding workshops for engagement enquiries to [email protected] academics who want to improve their policy engagement and impact. These will cover matters such as how to engage with the political process and practical ways of influencing policy Book your place at: and legislation. On 6 June, from 12.30–1.30pm, David Mair, www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/research-impact-and-the-uk- Head of Unit Geographic Coordination, Joint Research Centre parliament-birmingham-tickets-32288969176 6 FEATURE: CAMPUS DEVELOPMENTS FEATURE: CAMPUS DEVELOPMENTS

transforming Home of some of Birmingham’s finest cultural our assets campus

Campus developments

Construction work on campus continues to gather pace as Designed to enhance the student experience, we were part of the University’s ambitious development plan, delighted to unveil the refurbished Avon and Loft spaces last including major projects at the Sport and Fitness building, the month in University Centre, which have made available up to new Hotel and Conference Park, and Bournbrook, a residence 190 new study spaces. for 178 students, which also includes a new sports pavilion, The Green Heart project team continue to make preparations café and accommodation and community drop-in service. for demolition of the old library over the summer, as the The Collaborative Teaching Laboratory building is making new Library was formally opened last month by guest of clear progress next door to Biosciences and the Learning honour, Dame Lynne Brindley. The vast parkland at the centre Centre, and the project team continue to host events and of campus has been designed with staff, students, and the workshops to ensure the opening meets the extensive needs community in mind, and is focused on sustainability, as well of staff and students. This development, which includes as enhanced meeting, study and entertainment space. three main lab facilities (wet, dry and computer based), will transform teaching and learning in STEM disciplines for a new generation of scientists and engineers, and will be open by 2019.

Finishing touches for our new sports centre

We look forward to welcoming our members to the new state-of-the-art facility very soon. You can sign up for memberships now, including peak and off-peak options for gym, swim, squash or inclusive by contacting sales@ Dame Lynne Brindley and Vice-Chancellor Professor Sir David Eastwood at the University of Birmingham Library opening sportandfitness.bham.ac.uk, 0121 414 2056/0121 415 8732 or visiting our Sales Hub in the Munrow Sports Centre. Get your membership now to be one of the first to use the new facility. Discover more at www.sportandfitness.bham.ac.uk

To keep up to date with all of our campus developments please visit the University campus developments web page: birmingham.ac.uk/building FEATURE: CAMPUS DEVELOPMENTS FEATURE: CAMPUS DEVELOPMENTS 7

LET US #hellobrum ENTERTAIN OUR CAMPUS YOU DESTINATION

#hellobrum Stunning collections from the First-class music making Old Masters in an award-winning in a state-of-the-art Art Deco building www.birmingham.ac.uk/destination HOME OF SOME OF performance space One of the UK’s most BARBER INSTITUTE OF FINE ARTS outstanding geological BRAMALL MUSIC BUILDING collections covering BIRMINGHAM’S FINEST 3.5 billion years CULTURAL ASSETS LAPWORTH MUSEUM OF GEOLOGY

www.birmingham.ac.uk/destination

Have you seen the new University railway station signage?

Anybody travelling to the University by of visitors and commuters at the station, our visitor attractions and cultural assets. train over the past few weeks will have whilst also supporting a shared ambition Our campus is home to a wealth of noticed some new University of Birmingham to improve passenger flow. Reflecting the historical, scientific, cultural and sporting signage around the platforms, lifts, stairs themes of the Strategic Framework, the assets open to our community: many and main foyer. new visuals celebrate our 11 Nobel Prizes, of which are free to enter, every day The installation of a suite of new artwork the depth and breadth of research and of the week! has been designed as part of the Estates study opportunities at the University, strategy to enhance the first impressions as well as putting a new spotlight on

Have you visited our prime destination spots yet?

Lapworth Museum of Geology – home to a concert hall, which hosts Cadbury Research Library – transporting visitors back 4.5 billion years, a series of top classical concerts by from Middle Eastern Manuscripts to the museum houses everything from international soloists, ensembles and fine printing, D. H. Lawrence to the dinosaurs to diamonds. The Lapworth orchestras; including the free Friday Chamberlain Papers, feed your curiosity Museum of Geology has the finest and lunchtime concerts. and consult 200,000 rare books and most extensive collection of fossils, some 4 million manuscripts. minerals and rocks in the Midlands Winterbourne House and Garden – region, and has been highlighted by recently awarded new, official museum Research and Cultural Collections – (2016) as one of Britain’s status thanks to Accreditation by the Arts visit our exhibitions to see some best paleontological Museums. Council, Winterbourne welcomes visitors of our most unusual, inspiring and to explore the historic Edwardian Art and significant pieces from our Collections. The Barber Institute of Fine Arts – Craft house nestled in seven acres of The University of Birmingham has your very own mini National Gallery: botanic gardens. thousands of objects in its Research whether you are enchanted by Monet, and Cultural Collections. From West captivated by Rossetti or inspired by The Bramall – we are lucky to have African masks to Pop Art prints, to Van Gogh, the Barber houses one of the Birmingham’s most exciting new celestial globes and 19th-century finest small collections of European art in entertainment venue for music, comedy, medical waxes, discover a cornucopia the UK. It uses its renowned collections lectures and ‘Audience With’ evenings of extraordinary artefacts. to create inspirational opportunities for right on our doorstep. Let us entertain learning and enjoyment for all and is you: www.thebramall.co.uk.

Be inspired, entertained and expand your knowledge at birmingham.ac.uk/destination 8 FEATURE: OUR IMPACT FEATURE: OUR IMPACT Our Economic Impact

We’re one of the region’s largest employers, and our community of more than 40,000 staff and students contributes significantly to the OUR economies of Birmingham, the West Midlands and the UK. On a like-for-like basis our economic impact has grown IMPACT by 59% in ten years The Economic, Social and Cultural Impact of the University of Birmingham The University employed 7,200 staff in the 2014–15 academic year We are one of the most significant employers in the region

We sustain 15,545 jobs In autumn 2016 we commissioned in the West Midlands London Economics to look at the diverse Almost 1 in every 50 jobs in Birmingham depend on the University ways in which our University contributes to the success of Birmingham, the West Midlands, and the UK; and to calculate The impact of the University’s our economic, social, and cultural impact during the 2014–15 academic year. spending and that of our students is £1.09 billion per year The report found: n We contribute £3.5 billion every year to the economy Value of Teaching n Almost 1 in 50 jobs in Birmingham and Learning depend on the University We attract students to Birmingham from n  Our teaching contributes £1.34 all over the UK and from across the world. billion to the economy Our students’ spending supports the local and regional economy, and many of our n Our international students contribute graduates (48%) stay in the region – making £160.2 million to the economy us a net importer of talent. We are giving more young people the chance to study at n Our research and knowledge transfer University: 80% of our students are from activity is worth £885 million state schools, and 23% come from lower socio-economic backgrounds. FEATURE: OUR IMPACT FEATURE: OUR IMPACT 9

Value of Research A Global University

and Knowledge Transfer Our University is a large, global organisation. Our networks enable us to work with We’re consistently ranked in the top ten UK universities, governments and companies universities for the quality and impact of our across the world, to solve the world’s research – research that creates innovative, greatest challenges, to create international grounded and enduring solutions to some experiences for staff and students, and of the world’s biggest issues. attract overseas visitors to the region. Our international students bring ideas and a global outlook, contribute to the academic and social richness of our University, and Our research and knowledge become advocates for the region and the transfer activity is worth UK when they return home. £885 million Eight additional international undergraduate students would Every £1 million invested in add £1 million to the economy our research by the UK Research over the three years they spend studying here Councils generates an additional £12 million for the economy Our international students contribute £160.2 million to the economy 81% of research rated as world each year leading (4*) or internationally excellent (3*)

Our teaching and learning contributes Social and Cultural Impact £1.34 billion a year to the economy In addition to delivering a diverse programme of events across campus, our cultural impact 34,160 students and more than extends beyond the region with collections 100,000 online learners being loaned to other museums and galleries across the UK. Almost 1,700 people More than 262,000 people attended who completed a programme with us in 2014–15 work in the healthcare sector public events at the University in 2014–15

We are developing entrepreneurs Our academics have given 2,280 days In 2014–15 we supported our students and graduates to of their time (the equivalent of more than six years!) start over 50 new business to supporting public engagement and cultural activities

10 FEATURE: BUAFTAs FEATURE: BUAFTAs

F BUAFTA S RS O UCCE YEA SS 10 G IN T A R B E L E CELEBRATING TEN YEARS C

OF BUAFTA STARS!

TA Staff from across the University came together in February AL P AD to celebrate the tenth annual Birmingham University ER ARDUA Awards for Tremendous Achievement (BUAFTAs).

Shortlisted nominees and guests gathered in the Great Hall team are undertaking to understand and prevent miscarriage. to celebrate a milestone ten years of recognising tremendous Ticket sales and colleague donations raised more than £4,898; achievement across Professional Services. The evening was a BUAFTA record! hosted by Rachel New, alumna, radio presenter, and current The BUAFTAs have created many more impressive figures UoB PhD student, and guests were entertained by the amazing over the past ten years including: student a cappella group Uptone Girls, and impressive Samurai n Over 150 BUAFTA awards won Stunt Show. n Almost 3,000 desserts eaten at the awards ceremonies In addition to celebrating staff success, the BUAFTAs support n Around 9,000 nominations received local charities through the BUAFTA raffle. This year’s raffle n Over 170 raffle prizes claimed by lucky winners supported research that Professor Arri Coomarasamy and his

IONS TO ALL OF OUR BUAFT RATULAT A 2017 S CONG TARS

Team of the Year: The IT Service Desk The IT Service Desk does a fantastic job providing IT support to staff, students and visitors. They respond quickly to queries and are always polite, upbeat, friendly and approachable. Commendation: Cleaning Services Training Team

Exceptional Customer Service: Elizabeth Warner-Davies, Project Team of the Year: Library Services Lapworth Museum Liz retired in February after 32 years Redevelopment Team at the University and helped to shape The Lapworth Museum the fantastic library service we have Redevelopment Team delivered today. Liz steered her team through a stunning new museum within a a period of considerable change, tight deadline and limited budget. overseeing the integration of several They put in a huge effort to safely site libraries and sensitively managing relocate over 250,000 objects impact on staff. and add an extra 25,000 records Commendation: Stella Simpson, to the museum catalogue. Cleaning Services FEATURE: BUAFTAs FEATURE: BUAFTAs 11 NG 10 YE CELEBRATI ARS OF BUAF TAS ST ARS! Exceptional Change Leadership: ‘Unsung Hero’ of the Year: Elizabeth Wragg, College of Beverley Davies, Human Resources Arts and Law Beverley plays an essential role in the As Operations Manager for Massive University, providing advice to staff on Open Online Courses (MOOCs), health and safety issues. As a result of Elizabeth has inspired academics to Beverley’s fantastic efforts, the University support the project and managed a successfully passed a recent Health and wide range of staff to help drive its success. Safety Executive biosafety inspection Over 250,000 students have now signed with flying colours. up to MOOCs run by the University. Commendation: Raj Khaira, IT Services

Excellent Support for Education: Birmingham Professional of the Year: The Resource List Stephen Ashton, Estates Advocacy Team As Project Manager for the New This team has transformed the Library Project, Stephen has shown student learning experience by professionalism, and leadership. He implementing a new Resource has worked incredibly hard to ensure List system. This has been a great library colleagues have got the best success, providing students with out of their space through his ability easy access to course reading to interpret and develop ideas. and leading to improved student engagement. Commendation: Heather Ashfield, College of Arts and Law The Vice-Chancellor’s Award: QAA HE Review Team The team coordinated the University’s HE Review The Student Experience Award: submission with input from Hands Up Fund Team, Development colleagues across the and Alumni Relations Office University. This took an Thanks to alumni donations, Hands Up has awarded £60,000 enormous amount of time to support a range of projects that have had a positive impact and organisation and resulted on the student community, including UBRobotics, Mental in a 170-page document Health, Badminton and Swimming. containing 1,400 items of supporting evidence.

Excellent Support for Research: David Boardman, College of Engineering Services The Principal’s Award: David is the ‘go-to’ person for a New Library Project Team range of highly significant research Staff from across the University projects in EPS. He is deeply worked together on the University involved in the bidding and New Library Project to deliver a state-of-the-art subsequent post-award activity building on time and on budget. Filling 40 miles for a range of major projects which of shelving and undertaking a significant have been transformative for the change programme for around 250 staff University and will have a lasting impact. with minimal disruption.

For further details on this year’s BUAFTAs visit www.intranet.birmingham.ac.uk/BUAFTAs 12 FEATURE: BRUSSELS FEATURE: JOHN HICK

Learn how our Brussels Office has benefited these members of staff: Gurmit Kler, Head of Business Engagement OUR BRUSSELS OFFICE: ‘Our Brussels Office facilitated interaction with networks that will enhance our capacity to link up and engage in productive relationships YOUR GATEWAY with non-UK companies.’ TO EUROPEAN NETWORKING CIRCLES

You may be surprised to know that the University has had an office in Brussels, right in the heart of the European Quarter, Dr Susannah Thorpe, Biosciences ‘Our Brussels Office connected me since 2010. If not, then great, you’re hopefully already a convert with those responsible for the European having already benefited from this resource. But if so, then you Union’s Zoo Directive and enabled could you be missing out! me to feed into a timely revision of their directive.’

We are hosted in Brussels by Birmingham opportunities to build relationships with City Council, sharing the space with other partners from outside of Europe who regional partners including Warwick will be keen to use Brussels to make University. Since its creation, our Brussels European connections. Office has been helping the University optimise the rich and extensive European support landscape for research projects, Providing University staff with: whilst also providing access to expert n Intelligence intelligence on policy development and n A place to build network connecting us with influential stakeholders. n A place to host events Dr Derek Averre, Centre for Russian, The office boasts dedicated staff located n Internal travel funds to help European and Eurasian Studies both on the ground in Brussels and here in you connect ‘Having a dedicated Brussels Office Birmingham to help you make the most of right in the centre of the European the facilities and services on offer, and we A route for: quarter was perfect for organising like to think of it as a home from home for n Reputation and network building our postgraduate/undergraduate visiting staff providing a relaxed networking n Increasing recognition and diffusion study visit around. Through the visit environment for the purpose of holding n Impact pathways our students were able to gain an project meetings with partners, small or n Bringing collaborators to you excellent knowledge of European large meetings, through to events and n Influencing EU policy and regulation and international affairs!’ conferences or even to carry out research. Our team have the knowledge to make the Get involved and use the office for: right connections for you to give you and n Individual visits your research the best opportunities to get n Short stays yourself noticed; whether for the purpose n Seminars and workshops of demonstrating impact, informing policy n Symposia or preparing to apply for funding. n Sandpit meetings We can also use the resource to n Proposal development meetings position ourselves ahead of Brexit, and n Project activities post-Brexit our presence will offer new

Visit our web page to find out more: www.birmingham.ac.uk/brussels FEATURE: BRUSSELS FEATURE: JOHN HICK 13

John Hick: A Philosopher of Religion’s Engagement with Racial Issues Dr Sharada Sugirtharajah, Honorary Senior Research Fellow at the University reflects on the work of the late John Hick.

The fear of the ‘Other’ is rearing its ugly (AFFOR), and along with John Plummer as critique and practical guidance as to head in the current volatile political climate its first director, Hick played a pivotal role how to change the public perception in the UK, US and Europe. The Brexit vote in facilitating community and inter-faith of the ‘Other’. to leave the EU and the election of Donald relations. AFFOR was formed to provide In his fight against racism, Hick provided Trump as the US President has created a platform for faith leaders and members leadership and collaborated with both lay a mood of uncertainty and xenophobia. of the community to address racial and and religious members of the community The purpose of this short piece is to related issues that affected the newly such as John Plummer (committed to draw attention to how a world-renowned arrived immigrants. AFFOR campaigned social justice), Clare Shore (then MP for British philosopher of religion and against the 1971 Immigration Bill. Hick, Ladywood, later Labour Cabinet Minister), theologian fought against racism in 1970s with Leonard Schiff, provided a character David Jennings (Anglican priest) Anthony Britain. He was John Harwood Hick witness to a Muslim, in a well-known court and Anne Wilson of the Cadbury Trust, to (1922–2012), H. G. Wood Professor of case at that time. He played a significant name a few. Some of the influential local Theology at the University of Birmingham part in helping Ramgharia Sikhs in bishops and church leaders were reluctant (1967–1982). Among his numerous procuring a redundant church building to support him and were offering the publications, the edited volume The Myth so that it could be set up as a place traditional liberal argument that anti-racist of God Incarnate provided enormous of worship. pamphlets would be ‘counter-productive’. publicity for the University of Birmingham. Hick not only drew attention to the Hick remarked in his autobiography: ‘For John Hick was probably one of the few raging racial politics of the time but had the attitude of both church and state to British academic theologians to raise the the courage to expose the criminal the widespread British racism of the time issue of racism. When Enoch Powell’s elements within the National Front who was cautious to the point of being almost ‘rivers of blood’ speech in 1968 created were stirring up racial hatred. The two entirely ineffective.’ a political storm, British theologians were succinct but significant pamphlets he Even before the Twitter troll, some of debating in abstract language about the wrote – The New Nazism of the National those who were involved in the activities of implications of secular theology which Front and National Party: a Warning to AFFOR were not free from verbal attacks dominated the theological discourse at Christians (1977) and Christianity and in print or physical attacks by racist groups. that time. Even before expressions such Race (1978) – encapsulated the prevalent Hick himself received a physical threat, and as ‘academic impact’ and ‘community white supremacist tendencies, the one of his anti-racist collaborators, Maurice involvement’ became trendy university- unfairness of immigration laws, the racial Ludmer, was brutally knifed by an extremist. speak, Hick was actively engaged profiling of the West Indian children in John Hick saw immigrants ‘as much part with what was happening on the ground. schools which disadvantaged them and of the contemporary British scene as those One significant aspect that is missing in hindered their integration. Another of whose ancestors came from Ireland more scholarly works on John Hick is an account Hick’s important pamphlets, Apartheid than a hundred years ago, or indeed in of his practical involvement in anti-racist Observed (1980), showed his commitment the Norman Conquest nine hundred years campaigns and community relations in the to wider-anti-racism outside Britain – the ago’. The pertinent questions that Hick Handsworth area of Birmingham in the brutal treatment of the blacks by the white raised then are still relevant: ‘Can the white 1970s, and the close link between his South African government. Hick and his British integrate themselves into the larger theological thinking and action. At a time colleagues were involved in organising human race which is now represented when the arrival of new immigrants to the the boycott of an all-white cricket team to among us by black and brown faces from from the Caribbean and , from apartheid South Africa, who the former Empire? Can we accept and the Indian Subcontinent was causing were to play at Edgbaston in Birmingham learn to rejoice in the human differences enormous racial and communal tensions, in 1970. These three short essays were which immigration has introduced into Hick was prompted to act. As the first not simply the strident critique of the evils our society? chairperson of All Faiths for One Race of racism but offered both a theological 14 CAMPUS CURIOSITIES AND CHANCELLOR’S COLUMN NEWS AND VIEWS CAMPUS CURIOSIT?ES

Chancellor’s column

We must stand up for international students in the UK.

In March, I led a debate in the House of Lords, in which the government was What is it? defeated by almost 100 votes, on the Ancestor I by Dame Barbara Hepworth (1903–1975), 1970. Campus Collection vital issue of international students. of Fine and Decorative Art, Research and Cultural Collections. On loan from the At Birmingham, I told the House, Trustees of the Hepworth Estate. our international students contributed £160 million to the economy in Where is it? 2014/15, and they are advocates University Square and ambassadors for Birmingham. They are also ambassadors for the One of the greatest Modernist sculptors of the 20th century, Barbara Hepworth UK around the world. received an honorary degree from the University in 1960. She chose Ancestor I to The 450,000 international students lend to the University as she felt it would stand up against the campus landscape currently studying in the UK add and architecture. £25.8 billion to our economy The piece is part of Hepworth’s ‘Family of Man’ series, which comprises nine and support over 200,000 jobs, sculptures ranging from a young girl to the ‘ancestors’. The four sections of the according to the latest research sculpture can be read as the head, torso, hips and legs of this authoritative figure. from Universities UK. Ancestor I also references pre-historic landscape features. In particular, the This is a vital contribution to the sculpture recalls the environment of Cornwall, where the artist lived for the majority life of the University and the wider of her life. This area features a wealth of prehistoric sites, which include standing national economy. stones (menhirs), a fascination for Hepworth throughout her career. It is essential that we continue to demonstrate the enormous Learn more contribution that international This sculpture featured in the artistic journey of Liz Hingley, as she explored the students make to our studies and experiences of University women, past and present. Making Space: Celebrating our economy, and that we show the Women at the University of Birmingham is on display in the Rotunda, Aston Webb impact that collaboration has on Building until 21 July. For more details see www.birmingham.ac.uk/making-space keeping the world-class standards A guided tour of the campus sculpture collection will be offered on 16 May. at our universities. Given the backdrop of Brexit, For further details and booking information see it is more important now than ever. www.researchandculturalcollections.eventbrite.com CAMPUS CURIOSITIES AND CHANCELLOR’S COLUMN NEWS AND VIEWS 15

news views If you would like to work with the press office, or find out more Our regular feature gives Buzz readers a quick tour about how they can help you of the latest University news hitting the headlines promote your research, email and activity among our online community. [email protected] or call 0121 414 6029

in the news… Join the UoB online community

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

The Vice-Chancellor visited Beijing to open a joint workshop with the Chinese Academy of Sciences, focusing on air pollution, as well as signing a Memorandum of Understanding on rail research with Beijing Jiaotong University. His visit was covered by more than 140 Chinese media outlets, including Sina, China Daily, and China News. Dr Zongbo Shi was interviewed by BBC Radio 4’s Inside Science about our research into airborne iron particles increasing the ocean’s capacity to absorb greenhouse gases. His research was featured by The Smithsonian, China.org and Voice of America. and the Times Educational Supplement both ran feeling social... lengthy feature articles on the University of Birmingham School, which included interviews with Michael Roden and Professor Why Did You Say #hellobrum’? James Arthur, and referenced our conference for other institutions that may wish to follow our lead. During February we launched a campaign that was designed to help prospective students make the difficult decision of Highlighting our drive to increase diversity in higher choosing which university to make their ‘firm choice’. To help education, we were mentioned in , them decide, we asked current students, alumni and staff to , Evening Standard and ITV.com for our ‘Access share why they chose Birmingham. to Birmingham’ pilot scheme, which provides free tuition We wanted to show prospective students what life is like to A level pupils from poorer backgrounds to help get to live, work and study at the University through the ‘Why Did them into university. You Say #hellobrum’ campaign. University of Birmingham School, University of Birmingham Short video clips and photos were shared across our social Institute of Forestry Research (BiFOR), and Birmingham Dental channels. People shared the one thing that stood out for them Hospital and School of Dentistry were included in the RICS – the course, the campus, the city, the atmosphere, or the awards shortlist in the and Birmingham Post. reputation for academic excellence? They were then able There was widespread international coverage of research to download and print out a speech bubble and join in. led by Dr Claudio Tennie, which found chimpanzees to be A gallery of the video clips and images was shared online. indifferent at best when it comes to altruistically helping a A post on our LinkedIn channel gained 121,000 impressions, fellow chimpanzee. In the UK it was reported in the Daily and on Facebook our page saw a reach of more than Mail, Independent and , whilst more than 22.500 people. 300 global outlets featured the findings. Internationally, the launch of our project to help tackle health Dr Karen Newbigging’s health policy research on the problems associated with air pollution in Delhi, led by Professor financial cost of poor mental health across the West Bill Bloss, was covered by more than 50 media outlets in India Midlands featured across regional media, including including: Economic Times, Indian Express and Business ITV Central, ITV news online, Made in Birmingham TV, Standard India. Free Radio West Midlands and Heart FM. We contribute £3.5 billion every year to the economy

This equates to the cost of building 7 flagship hospitals or 140 state-of–the-art secondary schools

Our Total Impact

100% Total economic, social and cultural impact £3,481.2m

39% 5% 25% 31% Teaching and learning Exports Research Direct, indirect and £1,340.7m £160.2m £884.9m induced impacts £1,095.4m Our research is world leading 81% of research rated as world leading (4*) or internationally excellent (3*)

11

81%

Designed and printed by 15043 © University of Birmingham 2017. Printed on a recycled grade paper containing 100% post-consumer waste.