Annual

Annual Review 2006–2007 Review For more information, please contact: Communications University of Reading PO Box 217 Whiteknights Reading, RG6 6AH [email protected] Tel (0118) 378 8005 2006–2007 www.reading.ac.uk Visitor Officers of the University

Her Majesty the Queen ChanCellor deans of the faCulties The Right Hon the Lord Carrington, arts and humanities KG, GCMG, CH, MC, PC Professor Cedric Brown, BA, PhD (Reading) ViCe-ChanCellor Professor Gordon Marshall, economic and social sciences CBE, BA (Stirling), DPhil (Oxford), FBA, AcSS Professor James Pemberton, MA, PhD (Cambridge) President of the CounCil life sciences Mr Timothy Ford, FRSA, FICPD Professor Christine Williams, ViCe-President of the CounCil BSc, PhD (London) Dr Geoff Botting, BSc, PhD, Reading science tr e a sur er Professor David Porter, Mr David Luffrum, CPFA BSc (Wales), PhD (Leicester)

Pro-ViCe-ChanCellors seCretary to the CounCil Professor Dianne Berry, Mr Bill Watts, BSc (London) BSc (CNAA), DPhil (Oxford), CPsychol,

AFBPsS, AcSS direCtor of aCademiC serViCes

Professor Tony Downes, BA, BCL (Oxford) Mr Keith Hodgson, BA (Leicester)

Professor Rob Robson, direCtor of faCilities management BA (York), PhD (Wales) Colin Robbins, BSc (Portsmouth), FRICS

Professor Carl Stychin, direCtor of finanCe BA (Alberta), LLB (Toronto), LLM (Columbia) and CorPorate serViCes Mr David Savage, BA (London), FCCA

direCtor of information serViCes Mrs Annette Howarth, MA (Oxford), Diploma in Computer Science (Cambridge), FBCS, FRSA

direCtor of student serViCes Mr Bill Watts, BSc (London)

auditor s KPMG LLP

Designed at the University of Reading Printed by Advent Colour, Andover, Hampshire Cover photograph by Emma Foster, a student in the Department of Typography & Graphic Communication Additional photography by David Hatfull of Diem Photography www.diemphoto.co.uk University of Reading Annual Review 2006–2007

Introductions 2 Research 5 Teaching & learning 11 International & local 17 People 23 Facts & figures 29 Welcome from the Vice-Chancellor

This past year saw We have greatly strengthened our invest- ment in international engagement, our ambitious estate with an innovative restructuring of our approach to international recruitment, as development programme well as enhanced support for our Schools being stepped up a gear. and Departments. My own contributions included trips to Oman, where successful Some of the building and refurbishment recruiting and alumni events were held, projects are outlined elsewhere in this and to Japan and South Korea, as part of Annual Review, but I am particularly a UK team accompanying the Minister pleased that we have transformed the for Higher Education on an official visit. public areas in the ground floor of the Whilst in Korea I also gave an impromptu Library, and that we are forging ahead television interview on the prospects for with the new buildings for the Business Reading Football Club – but that’s a story School and the Life Sciences. for another occasion. The formal opening of the new build- We have also received another big vote ing for student services also saw Lord of confidence from our students. In the Carrington, our Chancellor since 1992, National Student Survey, some 88% of perform one of his last official duties. Reading students polled in the 2006/07 Named in his honour, the Carrington academic year declared themselves satis- Building will draw together the Universi- fied with their course, again putting the ty’s many services for students, as well as University in the top 20 in England. For enhancing the appearance of the central the first time we entered the influential quadrangle on the Whiteknights campus. Times ranking of the World’s Top 200 Peter has been a great Chancellor and universities – no mean feat given that the Carrington Building honours him and there are (for example) more than 4,000 all he has given to the University over universities in Europe and a further 745 in the years. He has performed his official Japan alone. duties diligently and with great charm, Our alumni continue to show their and throughout his period of office he support for what we are doing, and not has undertaken innumerable informal just financially, although I would like to visits to the University and to events express my personal thanks to the many elsewhere, in support of this particular former students who have donated sub- institution. stantial sums towards the construction of During the year we also launched the the new Business School, to the Reading Walker Institute, a pioneering centre for Real Estate Foundation, and to the Uni- climate research, which exploits and inte- versity’s Annual Fund. Donations to the grates the unrivalled climate expertise last of these, through which alumni and within the University. This Annual Review current staff give regularly to support outlines a very small proportion of the today’s students, now stand at well over projects progressing under the umbrella three-quarters of a million pounds. of the Institute. Finally, I would like to thank all of the Uni- The University also acquired from IBM versity staff who have contributed to the the UK’s most powerful academic super- continuing success story that is Reading, computer – the second most powerful since without their efforts there would computer in the UK overall – for use by be no University. Reading scientists and others in research using very large and complex data-sets.

Professor Gordon Marshall CBE, BA (Stirling), DPhil (Oxford), FBA, AcSS

Vice- Chancellor  Universit y of Reading Annual RE VIE W 2006–2007 Foreword from the President

Reading is a university As the Annual Review looks back so the Council, as the University’s governing founded on core values body, looks forward for the challenges ahead. Both in formal session and in of academic excellence more informal meetings to which its and integrity coupled members give generously of their time and expertise, the Council sets the strat- with a responsiveness to egy for the future and works to support, current concerns which encourage and advise those who manage the University. We are determined underpins an ability to set to ensure the University of Reading’s continued and developing international the agenda for the future. recognition and secure its pre-emi- This Annual Review nence and that our current planning will achieve that. The funding environment, bears striking witness both for teaching and research, is fraught to the work of a leading with future uncertainties but I am confi- dent that this University is as well placed international university. as many, and rather better placed than most, to read the signs astutely and to The work of the Council in the past year emerge even stronger and fitter. has been dominated by the formulation of ambitious plans to refresh and renew Reading sits in a vibrant and exciting part the University’s academic and residential of the country, one with a fast develop- estate and to ensure the resources to ing profile and economy. The University realise them. The University’s environ- is taking full advantage of this enviable ment is an asset treasured by all who live position and, through the talents of its and work here and which enhances its staff, its students and its alumni, is exert- striving for excellence; these integrated ing an ever-growing influence not only and phased developments will ensure throughout the world but also closer to that Whiteknights remains a green and home. I invite you to celebrate and share pleasant place but one which boasts in that success through the words and state-of-the-art facilities within which images of this Annual Review. teaching and research of the highest quality will flourish.

Timothy Ford, FR SA , FICD President of the Council

 searchR e

 Universit y of Reading Annual RE VIE W 2006–2007

The University of Reading Our research strength is signalled in areas such as agriculture, biological by the fact that we receive around and physical sciences, European histories is a strong research- £20 million research funding from and cultures, and meteorology. Govern- Government each year. In addition, ment, commerce, charities and research intensive university that is we receive around another £25 million councils are among the many organisa- committed to conducting a year from externally-funded research tions that utilise and value our specialist grants and contracts. These funding expertise. The high quality of our work internationally excellent streams allow us to compete with the and the talent and leadership of our research in a broad range best universities in the country, as well researchers are widely recognised with as internationally. The University is awards from business and industry, as of areas spanning the home to a number of international well as the University. physical and life sciences, centres of research excellence social sciences and arts and humanities.

 R esearch

The Walker Institute

Leading researchers The Institute aims to address funda- Wheat, peanuts and mental questions in understanding rice under threat from from the University’s and forecasting climate variability and change and its impacts – on timescales climate change specialist areas of climate, of weeks to decades and beyond. This Farmers across the world could see meteorology, agriculture, research is essential for informing a dramatic drop in their harvests of adaptation strategies that will enable wheat, peanuts and rice by the end of soil science and geography sustainable development in the face of this century unless plant varieties are are now working together climate change, especially in the devel- developed that are more suited to a oping world where vulnerability warmer climate. to climate is already high. as members of the Walker Scientists from the Walker Institute have Institute for Climate The Walker Institute will address found that peanut crops could drop by important issues such as: how pol- two thirds in India – the world’s largest Systems Research, to lutants, for example emissions from producer of peanuts – by the 2080s as a form an unrivalled centre aircraft, affect climate; the potential to result of global warming. forecast natural climate variations, such Dr Andy Challinor, lead author of the of excellence in climate as El Niño and monsoons, over seasons study said, ‘This study of the peanut crop and decades; how climate change might highlights a more general and important research. affect high impact weather events, like risk to food crop production, such as storms; and how crops may be adversely wheat, soybean and rice, world wide.’ affected by increasing drought and heat stress. The Walker Institute is named after Sir Gilbert Thomas Walker, the eminent meteorologist, best known for his work on the Indian Summer Monsoon and the Southern Oscillation, now known to be linked with El Niño, and for pioneering seasonal forecasting.

 Universit y of Reading Annual RE VIE W 2006–2007

The Walker Institute

Australian alliance Working on UN report Sun block In March the Walker Institute formed The latest report on climate change Walker Institute scientists have an alliance with Australia’s Government by the UN Intergovernmental Panel discovered just how dramatically of Queensland to understand climate on Climate Change (IPCC) released in a Saharan dust storm can block out change and its impacts on agriculture, February presents stronger evidence the Sun. water resources and the insurance than ever that climate change is happen- The work studied a large Saharan dust industry. ing and that it will worsen this century. storm which raged across the North Professor Gordon Marshall, the Reading scientists at the Walker African desert in March 2006, the largest University of Reading’s Vice-Chancellor, Institute helped to write the report, storm for the previous two years. It and Mr Peter Beattie, Queensland’s contributing particularly on how much reveals how the Sun is blocked out by Premier, signed an agreement for inter- greenhouse gases warm the climate, around a third, causing temperatures at national research cooperation aimed how ice sheets contribute to sea level the surface to plummet. at fostering information exchange and rise, how El Niño and monsoons might The Walker Institute has a share in a research collaboration between the change, and on important feedbacks £5million Government award to work Walker Institute and the new Queens- within the earth system which can act with the Indian Institute of Tropical land Climate Change Centre to amplify warming. Meteorology in Pune, western India, of Excellence. leading a four-year project to predict Premier Beattie said: ‘The objective of what will happen to the Indian monsoon the collaboration is to support interna- as global warming begins to bite. tional research activities into climate, The monsoon rains provide nearly 80% agricultural and hydrological systems.’ of the year’s rainfall and they are critical for agriculture, for drinking water and for industry which often relies on hydroelec- tricity for power.

 R esearch

The Virtual Research Environment University’s Blade Runner for for Archaeology The Archaeology supercomputing The University of Department and the School of Systems Reading’s Advanced Computing and Engineering are working together on Emerging Technologies (ACET) Centre a project that aims to produce a fully- now has the most powerful academic fledged virtual research environment for supercomputer in the UK – meaning even the archaeological community. greater accuracy in research on areas which affect the lives of millions of people. The Virtual Research Environment for Archaeology (VERA) project builds on the successful JISC VRE 1 project, Silchester Thanks to a massive upgrade, the University’s IBM supercom- ‘Town Life’: a research and training excavation of one part puter is now the most powerful academic computer in Britain, of the large Roman town at Silchester. This aims to trace the and the second most powerful computer in the UK overall. site’s development from its origins before the Roman Con- quest to its abandonment in the fifth century A.D. The rich Since 1999, IBM has had close links with Professor Vassil and complex finds from the excavation provide the material Alexandrov, the University’s leading expert on computational to populate the research environment, and a working site to science and Director of the University’s ACET Centre. investigate the use of advanced Information Technology in an Reading now not only leads the strategic field of computational archaeological context. science in areas of modelling of complex systems, scalable The JISC funded VERA project will facilitate greater collabora- algorithms, collaborative tools and environments, but also is at tion amongst the archaeological researchers, on-site teams and the forefront of the most accurate research into air pollution Internet community, providing them with the enhanced means modelling, climate change, financial modelling, drug discovery, of collaborating, collating, manipulating and managing data and computational biology and meteorology. information, as well as collective knowledge creation. Chris Guy, Head of the School of Systems Engineering said, This Virtual Research Environment (VRE) will support various ‘More accurate predictions in each of these areas, as a result archaeologists both at their usual workplace and on excavation of better modelling, will enable us to make real changes to peo- sites. It will link to a related VRE at the University of Oxford that ple’s lives by, for example, showing where flood defences should is supporting the study of documents and manuscripts. The two be built or speeding up the development of lifesaving drugs. projects will demonstrate the benefit of VREs in providing seam- ‘Our students will greatly benefit by school staff being at the less access and manipulation of a richer range of archaeological forefront of world-leading research with so many exciting and research information and data. challenging applications.’ Addressing user needs, enhancing the means of efficiently docu- Professor Alexandrov said: ‘By upgrading our computer we menting archaeological excavation and its associated finds, and have made it the most powerful used in academic research in creating a suitable Web portal that provides enhanced tools for the UK. The possibilities of use for this computer are endless. In the user community, VERA aims to develop utilities that help addition to the advance of computational science, we will be at encapsulate the working practices of current research archae- the cutting edge of giving more precise pollution predictions, ologists unfamiliar with virtual research environments. speeding up the design of lifesaving drugs, investigating scenar- User testing and analysis is being undertaking in the School of ios in climate change and thus making real changes to people’s Library, Archive and Information Studies, University College London. well-being.

 Universit y of Reading Annual RE VIE W 2006–2007

Investigating premature amniotic Choosing food – and parents – carefully sac rupture Researchers at the School of It is becoming increasingly evident Pharmacy have developed an important that variations in our genes impact not new technique to study one of the most only on our risk of disease but also our common causes of premature birth and response to dietary change. prenatal mortality. The benefit gained from making positive changes to our diet is known to be highly variable and is likely to be in large part deter- Dr Ché Connon, a Research Councils UK Fellow in Stem Cells mined by our genetic make-up. and Nanomaterials, and his team, used a powerful x-ray beam to examine tiny structures within the protective sac – amniotic Dr Anne Marie Minihane, Reader in Integrative Nutrition, in the membrane – which surrounds the developing baby. School of Chemistry, Food Biosciences and Pharmacy, is inves- tigating the impact of dietary fat, and in particular fish oils on This beam can resolve structures far smaller than a light risk of cardiovascular disease, and examining the impact of an or electron microscope. Furthermore, unlike other more individual’s genetic make up on risk of disease and response to intrusive forms of microscopy, x-ray investigation requires no dietary change – so it’s a case of choosing your parents, as well processing of the tissue before examination, so can produce as your diet, carefully! an accurate measurement of amniotic membrane structure in its normal state. She explains, ‘Currently as adults, apart from the separate advice given to pregnant and lactating women, we are all given more The rupture of the protective sac is an important stage in the or less the same dietary advice, such as consume five portions of start of labour. Premature rupture of the amniotic membranes fruit and vegetables a day, and eat less than six grams of salt per occurs in up to 20% of all pregnancies worldwide, and is the day and so on. most common cause of preterm birth, leading to babies dying or having major problems such as cerebral palsy. Currently pre- ‘Profiling all our genes is becoming increasingly feasible and mature births are increasing and 40% are attributed to the early cost-effective. So we need to ask ourselves, in the future, will a rupture of amniotic membranes. A better understanding of the genetic profile be routine and as common-place as having your rupture process will lead to better treatments, earlier diagnosis blood cholesterol test at your local GP surgery? Will we be pro- and a lower number of premature deliveries. vided with ‘personalised’ health and dietary advice to suit our genetic make-up?’ Dr Connon said, ‘Rupture of the amniotic sac has been associated with a weakening of the tissue, but there is very Dr Minihane is one of four recipients of a new competitive Uni- little information available concerning the detailed mechanics versity Research Leadership Awards scheme, (see p24) which of how this actually occurs. provides a maximum of £50,000 to each successful applicant, in order to allow them to focus on their research for a period of ‘We have now identified a regular cross-work arrangement of one or two years. The award can be used to fund a temporary fibre forming molecules within the amniotic membrane which post covering their lecturing and administrational duties. give the tissue its strength, and detected nanoscale alterations in the molecular arrangement within areas associated with amniotic membrane rupture. These results suggest that it is the loss of this molecular lattice-like arrangement that governs the timing of membranes rupture.’

 achinTe g & Learning

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The University is one Our consistently high position in Reading also has a number of unique national league tables reflects the specialist facilities that strengthen of only 16 in the UK expertise of our academic staff – many teaching, learning and research: our of whom are international authorities archaeological site at Silchester; the Bob hosting more than one in their fields. Reading students also Kayley Studio Theatre; our rare books and Government-funded have access to excellent facilities. These archives and our museums – The Cole include the University’s library with over Museum of Zoology, The Ure Museum of Centre for Excellence in a million volumes, several 24-hour com- Greek Archaeology and The Museum of Teaching and Learning. puter laboratories, online virtual learning English Rural Life. and a wide choice of professional The new central Carrington Building, development courses. We are the lead host in the heart of the main Whiteknights in two centres – one in site, now brings administration, career, teaching and welfare services under a applied undergraduate single roof, giving students easy access research skills, the other in to the support they need. career management skills.

11 achinTe g & Learning Investment in facilities

The University has New facilities for students Business School Capital investment this year included In July the first turf was cut marking developed a challenging the construction of a new building and an the start of work on the new £35million redevelopment strategy extension of the Students’ Union build- University of Reading Business School ing to bring together key student services building and ICMA extension. that aims to provide staff into one central location on campus. The ambitious project – which is and students with the The University Chancellor, The Rt Hon jointly funded by the University, private the Lord Carrington KG , opened a new investment and the Higher Education very best infrastructure three-storey building named in his Funding Council for England – will further and facilities so that we honour at a VIP reception for staff, rep- reinforce the University of Reading’s rep- resentatives of the student body, and utation as having one of Britain’s leading can continue to attract friends of the University from the local business schools and signifies the Univer- the highest calibre of staff community and beyond. The innovative sity’s commitment to providing a world-class design and construction techniques teaching and learning environment. used in the building mark a key step in and students from across Professor John Hendry, Head of the the University’s ongoing commitment Business School, said, ‘This is a landmark the world. to ‘green’ energy by utilising geothermal development by an internationally energy to heat and cool the building. In acclaimed team of architects and will this one stop shop, students are provided provide a fitting home for what is fast with a central access point for support becoming one of Britain’s top and advice while the newly extended Stu- international business schools.’ dents’ Union facilities next door provide a focus for student life encompassing This flagship building is set to have one welfare, leisure and retail opportunities. of the largest Reuters-equipped facilities Also this year, Olympic gold medal- in the world outside investment banks. lists and alumni, James Cracknell and Debbie Flood, opened the University’s refurbished sports centre which now has facilities to rival any Olympic training centre.

12 Further investment The public areas in the ground floor cabinets have been installed in seven of the Library have been greatly improved additional rooms and a number of other and a new café installed. Construction of rooms have had the old style technology a new Science building to house two new tables replaced with new compact tech- Schools – School of Biological Sciences, nology cabinets. and the School of Chemistry, Food and The University has also installed inter- Pharmacy – has begun. The new building active whiteboards – Smartboards will provide both science research and – in Palmer G10 and Palmer 103 and science teaching & learning space over purchased a personal response system 4,500 sq.m and four storeys. (student voting system) which can be set In order to provide improved up in either of the two lecture theatres in support and an enhanced education the Palmer Building. for research students, the University has recently refurbished Old Whiteknights House, a Grade II Listed Building on the Whiteknights campus. Many other teaching rooms across campus have seen significant investment in their technology. New technology

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Student satisfaction Students at the The third annual National Student Survey a percentage of students were not satis- (NSS) shows students across the country fied, and we will be doing our best to University polled in the have a high and sustained level of satis- make sure we improve their experience.’ faction with their experience of higher Sally Pearman, President of Reading’s 2006/07 academic year education. Overall, 81 % of students were Students’ Union, said: ‘We encourage satisfied with their experience at univer- are among the most students to do more than just their sity or college. satisfied in the country. degree so that when they graduate But 88 % of Reading students polled said they’ve made more friends, had more they were satisfied with their course at experiences and they really feel they’ve Reading – putting the University in the made the most of their time at university. top 20 in England and in the top 23 nation- Reading is relentlessly dedicated to sup- ally out of more than 140 universities and porting and developing our students and HE colleges. the NSS results show that our efforts are paying off!’ Professor Gordon Marshall, Vice- Chancellor of the University of Reading, Percentages are for respondents who said: ‘It’s great to hear the majority of our ‘definitely’ or ‘mostly’ agreed with students are happy and satisfied with question 22 of the survey: ‘Overall, I am their courses. Our staff and the Students’ satisfied with the quality of my course’. Union work very hard to ensure students Parliamentary Under Secretary of State choosing to study here get the very best for Intellectual Property and Quality, out of their time at Reading. Lord Triesman, speaking at the launch ‘Reading is consistently one of the of the 2007 NSS results, said: ‘An overall most popular higher education choices satisfaction rating of 81 per cent is an in the UK. excellent endorsement of higher educa- tion in this country. The survey itself is ‘But, we are not complacent and also a helpful tool for institutions to iden- recognise that for whatever reason, tify areas that might need sharpening up.’

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New NHS psychotherapy A scholarly achievement post The Charlie Waller In March, certificates Foundation has provided were presented to 64 the majority of funding First Year students who for a five-year Chair in had been awarded Cognitive Behavioural Entrance Scholarships Psychotherapy (CBT) to at the beginning of the be based jointly at the academic year. University of Reading and These scholarships, which started in the Berkshire Healthcare 2006, are given to those undergradu- Professor Gordon Marshall presents Jane Taylor, NHS Trust. ates who have come top of their class Pharmacy student, with her Entrance Scholarship at entrance level for a range of degrees including Agriculture, Animal Sciences, Professor Roz Shafan is the first Chair in Microbiology, Maths, Chemistry, Food this field to be appointed in the UK and BioSciences, Pharmacy, Natural Sciences, will raise the international profile of train- Modern Languages and Finance. They ing, research and development in CBT. have already received the £2,000 scholar- CBT is the number-one recommended ship towards the costs of their first year psychotherapeutic treatment for mental studies, marking a new move to promote health disorders such as depression, high educational attainment. anxiety and bulimia nervosa but cur- Vice-Chancellor, Professor Gordon rently there is a shortage of practitioners Marshall said: ‘At Reading we commit able to deliver this treatment, especially more than 40% of our increased tuition within the NHS. However, there are many fee income to our bursaries and scholar- graduates who wish to be trained in CBT ships programme. This is because we but are currently unable to enrol on a believe in making university accessible to course due to a lack of training places. everyone who can benefit from Professor Shafan will head a team of higher education.’ teachers and researchers who will bid Over future years, Reading hopes to for research funding and will also engage extend its range and number of scholar- in local CBT training programmes. It is ships offered, so that as many students hoped that this will contribute to an as possible can receive this £2,000 award increase in CBT practitioners in various for the first year of their study at Reading. settings including NHS primary and Reading will also be awarding achieve- secondary care. ment scholarships which reward the highest achieving students following part one and two examinations, in their second and third years at the University of Reading, with the aim of giving stu- dents the incentive to work as hard as possible, while also removing some of the financial pressure associated with higher education study.

15 ternationalIn & Local

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The University has As well as fostering a strong sense The University also offers a variety of community on campus, we enjoy close of local enterprise services, such as approximately 2,776 full links with local residents, businesses, consultancy and collaborative research schools and colleges. Through university and access to our specialist facilities and and part-time students life and work we aim to make a positive expertise. We also play a leading role in from outside the UK from difference to people’s wellbeing and to many regional initiatives that support the economic prosperity of the Thames entrepreneurship. Our involvement with 153 different countries. Valley region. Many campus facilities the Thames Valley Life Sciences Network The combination of and events are open to the public, promoting innovation in Life Science is a including the SportsPark and three prime example. international students museums housing specialist collections relating to zoology, Greek archaeol- and a large number of ogy and English rural life. Our School of international members Continuing Education provides learning opportunities for all and a commitment of staff bring a wealth of to the local community. experiences and culture – we are proud of our diversity.

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International engagement Reading has a long- This year saw a concerted investment in The Director of the International Office, the University’s international activities. Caroline Nunnerley, has now been joined standing reputation for From a dedicated, more focused central by a new Deputy Director, Sirin Myles and recruitment office, to individual support Senior International Officer, Rob Aldridge, international engage- for schools and departments in their as well as a graduate trainee, Siobhan ment. There is already planning and performance, international Marshall as International Officer ‘train- recruitment is high on the University’s ing’– we are now employing one of own an enormous amount of agenda in order to achieve our ambitious graduates to promote the University. innovative work in place recruitment targets in an increasingly A restructuring of the office has allowed competitive market. the movement of Heather McKeever into full fee international activities, and she across the University The University is not only financially now has specific responsibility for the dependent on the money brought in by which supports our development of partnerships, in collabo- international student fees – it makes up ration with the International Quality international liaison, and around 10% of the University’s overall Support Manager in the Quality Support budget – but the multicultural and which directly affects Office. The international team at Reading diverse nature of the Reading campus is has never had such a broad range of student recruitment as now a very strong part of our identity as experiences, expertise and capabilities an institution – it is one of the elements to really move our strategy forward. It well as developing our that make us distinctive. is one of the newest and wide-ranging profile overseas. The International Office team will teams in the sector with a clear vision continue to ensure that high quality for the years to come. There is one final research is at the core of this University’s post to be appointed, concentrating on activities, allowing international oppor- international market research and tunities to develop our research activities communications, both to support the wherever possible, but also ensuring that recruitment function and schools and Reading’s international activities will seek departments in their own planning. to engage with all levels of University activity.

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New electronic guide to museum The Cole Museum, now 100 years old, Strengthening represents one of the community links most comprehensive The University collections of is furthering its Statistics in Zanzibar comparative anatomy in commitment to being The University’s Statistical the United Kingdom and a good neighbour by Services Centre (SSC) won welcomes visitors from creating a new role of a competitive tender for all over the world. 225,000 Euros to train civil Community Relations Manager to build bridges A new touch-screen device has been servants for the Southern installed in the AMS foyer to allow visi- Africa Development with the local community. tors access to a new electronic ‘virtual’ guide to specimens on display in the Community (SADC). Ann Westgarth, who has a background Cole Museum of Zoology. The interactive in community relations and develop- guide has a photograph of every item The Centre will develop a harmonised ment work, will work to strengthen the on display with close-up detail of many syllabus and supporting materials for University’s relationship with local part- of the specimens. Accompanying each the region. ners such as Reading Borough Council, photograph is a description of the speci- Thames Valley Police, local residents, men along with interesting snippets of In March a team undertook visits landlords and the Students’ Union. information to tell guests more about to Botswana, South Africa, Tanzania, the species on display or on the animal Zimbabwe and Mozambique. Her role is also to look impartially at the group as a whole. impact the University has on the local In May Carlos Barahona and Dr Roger community and how it can improve rela- The electronic guide has been produced Stern from the SSC travelled to Zanzibar tions with local residents and businesses. by a team in the Environmental Biology to conduct a workshop with delegates section of the School of Biological Sci- from 14 universities within the region Ann said: ‘The University has a huge ences, funded by the University’s Centre and training officers from the National impact on the local area in providing of Excellence in Teaching and Learning Statistics Offices in all 14 countries. At the economic, social and cultural benefits. in Applied Undergraduate Research end of the meeting the Heads of Statis- Whilst most students are an asset to the Skills (CETL-AURS). CETL-AURS fellow Dr tics of all countries in the region gave the community there are those that cause Amanda Callaghan explained, ‘This elec- Reading proposal their full support. problems and this can be very distressing tronic guide is part of a wider project to for local residents.’ The development of the syllabus and the develop learning resources to improve training materials is seen in SADC as an In consultation with partners and other the taxonomic skills of zoology under- important step towards the integration key stakeholders, Ann will develop a graduate students. Over the past twelve and harmonisation of statistics in the strategy which aims to reinforce the months the zoology CETL-AURS team, region. For the University of Reading it is University’s role as a good neighbour and has developed a prototype CD-ROM an opportunity to share the SSC’s drive an asset to the community, while also in Animal Diversity, encompassing the to promote good practice and modern making it more accessible to local people virtual Cole Museum guide, which will methods for training in statistics among and providing a direct point of contact be edited and finalised for an official our SADC partners. for community issues. launch in 2007.’

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Willow builds bridges The Museum of English Rural Life (MERL) teamed Community garden up with The Hawthorns project At the end of School in Woosehill, summer, University Wokingham, and artist Peace Reading University grounds staff gave a Sophia Gabbitas to make a Students’ Union (RUSU) helping hand to Ridgeline sculpture from willow for launched a clever Trust, a charity formed by display in the Museum’s campaign to highlight the a group of local residents new garden. problems of noise within to develop a therapeutic the local area, as part of garden in East Reading. The project was funded by Creative Partnerships, an Arts Council initiative. its ongoing commitment Sophia and the youngsters, working in to community relations. The site of the garden is the land willow, examinined ideas of habitat and formerly known as the Paddock at sustainability. The children made mini- Mockbeggar House , in the residential The Silent Students, Happy Homes ature habitats at their school, and then area near the Earley Gate section of (SSHH) campaign promotes the message created one large sculpture at MERL Whiteknights campus. of responsibility, especially late at night based around the same themes for The aim of this project is to use gardening when people will be particularly affected the garden. Sophia was assisted by to help people with mental and or physical by noise. student volunteers from MERL’s disabilities, learning difficulties and other volunteer programme. Posters, door hangers, badges, T-shirts special needs to regain lost skills, learn and signs in the Students’ Union venues Bekky Moran, MERL’s Learning Manager new skills, improve social skills and help reinforced this message. said: ‘This project marks the start of work build confidence and self esteem. to create an attractive and interesting ‘Students don’t always realise the affect The garden had been planted garden to complement the Museum’s they’re having on their local community,’ with vegetables and flowers which indoor displays, continues our policy of said Nick Smith, Vice-President (Welfare) children from nearby Redlands and commissioning artworks for the Museum of the Students’ Union. ‘It’s easy to forget Alfred Sutton primary schools had grown. and helps us to build relationships with that the majority of students are respon- In early September, Giles Reynolds schools and the local community.’ sible and want peace and quiet to revise (Deputy Head of Grounds) and members and prepare for examinations. Projects A Victorian garden at the Museum has of the arboriculture team contributed like the door hangers, which identify a also been restored to its former glory, so to the landscaping and preparation of need for quiet to people nearby, are that everyone can use it as a quiet haven the garden. a way of reminding others.’ in central Reading. Originally the garden Jill Haslam, Chair of the Trust said, ‘The was the pride of the Palmer family. The initiative is part of an ongoing project is progressing well with the help of Now aspects of the original garden have University policy to create a positive residents and local organisations’ been incorporated into the new design community in Reading and Wokingham. Ridgeline Trust Therapeutic Garden www. and a mulberry tree preserved. The The Students’ Union has recently been ridgeline.reading.ac.uk garden has herb beds, dye plants for use re-accredited with the Best Bar None in the Museum’s felt-making sessions award for practices and policies on Pictured left to right below are: and fruit trees including apple, cherry, responsible drinking after a thorough Jill Haslam, Stephen Richards, Abdul Sheikh, greengage and a pomegranate. assessment period. Giles Reynolds, Oliver Bell, Colin Adams.

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22 Universit y of Reading Annual RE VIE W 2006–2007

The people that make the With over 4,000 academic and Without leaving the campus, employees support staff, the University is one of can also benefit from first-class sports University of Reading the Berkshire’s biggest employers. This cos- and social facilities, many cultural events mopolitan community has employees and healthcare services. The University exceptional community of all ages and backgrounds with a wide rewards exceptional performance, lead- that it is include not just breadth of expertise and accomplish- ership and innovation with a number of ments. The University is an outstanding staff awards throughout the year. its academic and support institution that encourages individuality staff and 16,000 students, and a positive working environment free from discrimination. Staff are offered but every one of its alumni, opportunities to develop their skills through the Centre for Staff Training & honorary graduates, Development with over 200 free work- corporate governance, shops every year, as well as accredited teaching and management programmes. Friends of the University, stakeholders and the local community.

23 oplePe New research incentives for staff The University of Reading, one of the foremost research universities in the UK, launched two new Research Endowment Trust Fund (RETF) competitive schemes. The RETF is used to fund high quality applications from staff, to support research in line with the University’s Research Strategy. Below are details of each award and their respective winners.

Research Leadership Awards

This scheme provides a maximum of Professor Jon Gibbins £50K to each successful applicant, so that School of Biological Sciences Biomedical they can be bought out of their teach- & Pharmaceutical Research ing and administration for a year. The Dr Wayne Hayes aim is to enable the award holders to School of Chemistry, Food & Pharmacy strengthen their research standing and Nanoscience and Materials leadership potential, and contribute to the wider development of their research Professor Vassil Alexandrov School of Systems Engineering area within the University. Left to right: Pro-Vice-Chancellor Dianne Berry with Computational Sciences Jon Gibbins, Wayne Hayes, Vassil Alexandrov and Anne It was agreed that, for this year, the Marie Minihane awards would go to people working Dr Anne Marie Minihane within the University’s established School of Chemistry, research themes. The first four awards Food & Pharmacy, Food Chain & Health were made to:

Prizes for best research outputs

This new competition was created to Life Sciences acknowledge the continuing importance Dr Joe Sweeney to the University of high quality research Department of Chemistry as delivered through research outputs. Arts & Humanities Competitions were run at Faculty Paul Stiff level, using eligibility rules and criteria Department of Typography determined by each Faculty. Each award Science winner will receive £1,000. The winners are: Dr Mary Lewis Left to right: Joe Sweeney, Paul Stiff, Department of Archaeology Pro-Vice-Chancellor Dianne Berry, Mary Lewis, Paula Casal and her daughter Economics & Social Science Dr Paula Casal Department of Politics

24 Universit y of Reading Annual RE VIE W 2006–2007 Sporting chances for Anna and others There are now 26 students at Reading on Sports Scholarships, including eleven rowing scholars, one of whom is Olympic hopeful and Maths student Anna Bebington.

Anna is a former World Under 23 rowing champion, and took Gold at Munich 2006, fourth at the 2006 World Cup in Poznan and Silver in Lucerne. At the World Championships at Eton, in August 2006, she was fourth in the women’s double. She is currently the fastest women’s sculler in the country. Hockey has also come under the spotlight in recent years, as the University has attracted talented players to its hockey club and is able to offer hockey scholarships. Andrew Todd and Jonty Clarke , both from Reading Hockey Club, were part of the team in 1999 who reached the British Universi- ties Sports Association (BUSA) Cup final and are both currently representing England in the Men’s senior side. Richard Springham, also from Reading Hockey Club and currently in his 2nd year at the University of Reading, has recently secured a place in the England Academy and has represented England U 21s.

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University archivist wins Top award for risk SportsPark Olympic top international prize management Professor gold medallists and Dr David Sutton, Director Carol Alexander, Chair former University of of Research Projects in of Risk Management and Reading students, James the University of Reading Director of Research Cracknell MBE and Library, was awarded the at the ICMA Centre Debbie Flood opened prestigious Archivist of business school, has won a new £2.23 million the Year Award by New the Professional Risk Vo2 fitness centre York’s Scone Foundation Managers’ International – the jewel in the crown for archivists. Association Higher of the University’s Standard award for sports facilities on the The award is presented annually by the Scone Foundation to recognise an her contribution to Whiteknights Campus archivist or archival researcher who has the practice of risk in February. made a considerable contribution to the profession and who has provided management globally. important support to scholars conduct- Mr Cracknell graduated from Reading ing research in history and biography. with a BSc in Human Geography in 1993, Professor Alexander shares this while Debbie Flood studied Physiology He said: ‘I am very honoured to receive year’s award with Dr Robert Merton, and Biochemistry and graduated from this award, which will sit alongside the who won the Nobel Prize for Economics Reading in 2005. Benson Medal and the British Academy in 1997. award as a recognition of the value of The centre now caters for more than David Koenig, Executive Director of the work done by our team based in 5,000 members – including Olympic PRMIA, said: ‘Carol’s leadership of the University of Reading Library.’ hopeful and University of Reading Academic Advisory Council, and in par- student Anna Bebington – and is open Dr Sutton is responsible for two ticular, her incredible dedication to the to University and non-University projects based in Reading University creation of the Professional Risk Man- members, such as local residents. It Library: the Location Register of English agers’ Handbook has earned her even underwent a huge refit and extension Literary Manuscripts and Letters, and greater respect from our leadership, in late 2006, making it one of the most Writers Artists & Their Copyright building upon her already well-estab- well-equipped gyms in the area. New Holders (WATCH). He was awarded the lished reputation in our industry. equipment worth £230,000 is now Royal Society of Literature’s Benson ‘The PRM Handbook is now used in over available for members to use. Medal for work on these projects in 105 countries and at nearly every major 2002, and in 2004 they received the financial institution. It is no doubt that joint status of British Academy her work has had a global impact on Research Project. the advancement of understanding of finance and risk management and has been especially helpful to our associa- tion’s members.’

26 Universit y of Reading Annual RE VIE W 2006–2007

Fantastic plastic University physics lecturer Professor Averil Macdonald won the ‘Personal Contribution to the Industry’ prize at the recent Honorary Plastics Industry Awards. Professor Macdonald is responsible for degrees the ‘Fantastic Plastic’ talks, which are considered to be the most successful In December schools’ lectures in the UK, having been seen by 45,000 people to date. Dr Patricia Hillebrandt A record 700 guests attended the Dr Patricia Hillebrandt is a construction economist and London Hilton, where 15 awards were Senior Visiting Research Fellow in the School of Construc- given to companies and individuals in tion Management and Engineering. Dr Hillebrandt was recognition of their success within the presented for the honorary degree of Doctor of Science by world of plastics. Professor Peter Lansley. Extremely honoured to be presented with the award, Averil believes showing In July the material’s many unique capabilities in fun and lively demonstrations, is Mr Michael Bond OBE the key to capturing the imagination Mr Michael Bond OBE was raised and educated in Reading of GCSE students. and is the author of over one hundred books, including Throughout the UK, captivated young the Paddington Bear series. Mr Bond was presented for the audiences have discovered the unlikely honorary degree of Doctor of Letters by Professor David links between disposable nappies and Malvern, Head of the University’s Institute of Education. flat-screen TVs, LEGO® blocks and rubber trees, false legs and zero pollution cars, and oil slicks and cress! The Rt Hon. the Baroness Hale of Richmond The Rt Hon. the Baroness Hale of Richmond is a legal academic, barrister and judge, who became the first female Lord of Appeal in Ordinary (Law Lord) in 2004. Baroness Hale was presented for the honorary degree of Doctor of Laws by Professor Patricia Leopold, Head of the University’s School of Law.

27 ctsFa & Figures

28 Universit y of Reading Annual RE VIE W 2006–2007

The University continues The aim of our investment is to provide The University’s financial position is residential and teaching accommodation sound, ensuring well-resourced aca- to attract high calibre staff designed for 21st century students and demic provision and research activity high-tech research facilities to encourage to promote the growth transfer and and students, research and and foster academic excellence. The Uni- application of knowledge. The Univer- enterprise partners due in versity continues to be one of the United sity’s financial results reflect significant Kingdom’s leading research intensive achievements in the last year and the part to its commitment to universities, a major contributor to the increased breadth of income streams invest in its infrastructure. knowledge economy, and internationally builds on a financial base which is recognised in teaching and research. It strong and sustainable and will support also contributes £220 million annually to an academically vibrant university into the economy of the local region. the future.

29 ctsFa & Figures

Student numbers 2006–2007

thousands 0 2 4 6 8 10 12

10,786 total 5,374

4,166 Arts & Humanities 702

2,168 Science 1,460

1,774 Life Sciences 1,209

Economic & 2,390 Social Sciences 1,166

Institute of 288 Education 837

Undergraduates percentage Postgraduates

Research grants and contracts From research councils, industry, EU and other sponsors

£ millions 0 5 10 15 20 25

2004– 2005 £24,061,000

2005– 2006 £25,141,000

2006– 2007 £25,028,000

30 Universit y of Reading Annual RE VIE W 2006–2007

Careers information Destination of leavers (graduates) 2006 as at January 2007 First degree

percentage 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80

employment only 60

further study only 16

unavailable for employment 6

believed to be unemployed 7

work & further 11 study

Destination of postgraduates 2006 as at January 2007 Higher degree

percentage 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80

employment only

further study only 8

unavailable for employment 4

believed to be unemployed 2

work & further 10 study

£25,141,000

31 ctsFa & Figures

Financial summary From the consolidated financial statement for the year ended 31 July 2007 Income total: £167,672,000

£ millions 0 10 20 30 40 50 60

funding council grant 58,778,000

fees & support grants 41,471,000

endowment income & interest 1,752,000

residences & catering 18,539,000

other general income 14,619,000

research grants & contacts 25,028,000

other services 7,485,000

Expenditure total: £166,475,000

£ millions 0 10 20 30 40 50 60

academic departments 65,748,000

academic services 8,482,000 premises (excl. residence & catering) 25,315,000 administration & central services 19,273,000

residences & catering options 14,021,000

research grants & contracts 19,188,000

other expenditures 14,448,000

32 Annual

Annual Review 2006–2007 Review For more information, please contact: Communications University of Reading PO Box 217 Whiteknights Reading, RG6 6AH [email protected] Tel (0118) 378 8005 2006–2007 www.reading.ac.uk