THE UNIVERSITY of

SPRING 2012 bulletinTHE STAFF MAGAZINE

The light fantastic Professor Harald Haas shares the secrets of Li-Fi – page 8

Support Creative Lessons on Win beauty system connections life and death treats Academic Registry’s Dilys Rose talks about In pictures: the Enter our competition vital role in the student the potential of online University’s Anatomical for a chance to pamper journey – page 10 teaching – page 14 Museum – page 16 yourself – page 26 welcome...

bulletin editorial

Welcome to the spring edition of bulletin, marking the beginning of an already publication details packed 2012.

Published by: Communications and This year will see the publication of the University’s new Strategic Plan, outlining the Marketing, the University of Edinburgh University’s goals and priorities for the next four years. On page 5, Senior Vice- contact us Principal Professor Nigel Brown explains more about what can be expected. bulletin Communications and Marketing An ongoing area of strategic importance for the University is enhancing the quality The University of Edinburgh of the student experience, and on pages 10–13 we look behind the scenes at the C Floor, Forrest Hill Building University’s Academic Registry, whose vital work feeds into every element of the 5 Forrest Hill student journey. Edinburgh, EH1 2QL E: [email protected] The University’s student community now extends far beyond the city of Edinburgh, T: +44 (0)131 651 4325 as Dilys Rose is finding out on page 14, where she talks about the launch of the new online Masters in Creative Writing.

SUBMISSION DETAILS As always, this edition of bulletin is full of University success stories, including our If you would like to submit an idea for cover interview with Li-Fi inventor Professor Harald Haas, on pages 8–9, and our an article, please contact us at the regular round-up of staff awards and achievements on pages 20–22. email address above in advance of the next deadline. The next edition of bulletin will be published in September 2012. The deadline is 31 July.

To keep up to date with news, visit Staff News at www.ed.ac.uk/news/staff.

Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/UoE_staff.

The skull of 16th-century If you require this document in an humanist and historian alternative format (eg large print, on George Buchanan is coloured paper, etc) please get in touch just one of the many by using the contact details above. fascinating objects held by the University’s The University of Edinburgh is mindful of the Anatomical Museum. environmental impact of producing this magazine For a snapshot of the and seeks to minimise resources wherever possible. This magazine has been printed on collection, turn to pages Revive 100 Uncoated stock, which contains 16–17. 100 per cent post-consumer waste and is manufactured at a mill that is certified to the environmental management system ISO14001. Cover portrait by Laurence Winram

2 THE UNIVERSITY OF EDINBURGH STAFF MAGAZINE SPRING 2012 news... bulletin

University invests in student experience

he University is to invest £4 million over the next three years to develop Ta support system for students. The ongoing financial commitment will help students to enhance their time at Edinburgh, from their first experience as a new undergraduate, through to their transition to life beyond University. “The student population has been growing and the student demographic has been changing,” explains Professor Dai Hounsell, Vice-Principal Academic Engagement. “There is a wider range of students at the University, all with different needs, and we need to ensure that the support we’re providing them with the three Colleges will appoint a Dean makes good use of the most up-to-date of Students. Information technology strategies and technologies.” tools will be created to facilitate interactions between Personal Tutors The money will fund a variety of initiatives, We’re aiming to foster and students, to help students reflect including a new system of Personal Tutors. on their performance. even greater interaction Every undergraduate student will be between staff and appointed a Personal Tutor who will help “We are aiming to foster even greater students review their academic progress, interaction between academic staff students to help reflect on how their learning can help and students and to help students students focus on their them pursue their future development, focus on their future careers,” says and connect with their peers. Professor Hounsell. future careers. Professor Dai Hounsell As part of this process there will be new The new support system will be phased in Senior Tutor roles created and each of at the start of the 2012/13 academic year. New University Rector elected

eter McColl, a writer, activist and charity worker from Edinburgh, has Pbeen named as the new University The Rector’s position as Chair of Rector, following an uncontested election. University Court is a vital part of He succeeds writer and broadcaster . good governance.

“I am delighted to have been elected Rector “Peter’s experience in dealing with the University and of the University of Edinburgh,” comments Mr McColl. “I will commitment to getting the best for Edinburgh students means ensure that staff and students are listened to at the top of the he can do a great job.” University. The Rector’s position as Chair of the University Mr McColl has also worked for the Scottish Council for Voluntary Court is a vital part of good governance, and I look forward to Organisations and was Chair of Transition Scotland Support ensuring that this continues.” from 2008 to 2011. He is an editor of the Bright Green blog, and Mr McColl worked as an adviser to Mark Ballard MSP, and was has been voted top Green blogger by Total Politics magazine. the politician’s assessor, while he held the post of Rector at Mr McColl attended Edinburgh in 1998 to study geography Edinburgh, from 2006 to 2009. and holds both undergraduate and masters degrees from the “Students want a Rector who will ensure their voice is heard in University. He was Vice-President of the Students’ Association the University and who is committed to free education,” says from 2001 to 2002 and had been President of University-based James McAsh, student supporter of Mr McColl’s nomination. student society People and Planet prior to that.

SPRING 2012 THE UNIVERSITY OF EDINBURGH STAFF MAGAZINE 3 news...

SRA rallies interest on the road

he Student Recruitment and hosting information sessions across Admissions (SRA) team has the UK. begun its six-month programme of T “Teachers and advisers play a crucial recruitment events and activities. role in helping their students to make an Between January and July, the team informed choice about higher education participates in more than 75 targeted – so it is vital that they’re getting all of recruitment events, hosts information the information they need to help their sessions for teachers and delivers talks to students,” Mr Bradley adds. prospective students from all over the UK. “We focus on providing clear information “Although many people are surprised about our admissions policies, and about at how early the recruitment cycle student funding and scholarships, to try begins, it is crucial that the University is to counter any myths or confusion which represented at these key events to ensure may have built up about the University.” that potential students have access to as much information about the University as possible when making key decisions,” UCAS applications rise explains Niall Bradley, the University’s Overall undergraduate applications to the University of Edinburgh have risen 15 Head of UK and EU Recruitment. per cent, compared with last year, UCAS figures reveal. The sector as a whole has Many of the recruitment events will be reported a 7 per cent decline in undergraduate applications. targeting students in England, Wales Applications to Edinburgh made via UCAS for entry in September 2012 have and Northern Ireland who plan to start increased by 9 per cent from the UK as a whole. Applications are up by 15 per cent university in 2013. Attendance at these from those living in Scotland, 3 per cent from England and 23 per cent from Wales. events provides an opportunity to attract The only decrease in applications is from those living in Northern Ireland. EU and potential students at the beginning of overseas applications have risen by 24 per cent and 33 per cent respectively. It is their decision-making process. the first year that the figures have included Edinburgh College of Art, following the The team will also engage with teachers merger last summer. and advisers from key schools, by

Edinburgh hailed as HPC pioneer

dinburgh’s pioneering role in the forward to collaborating with Edinburgh development of high-performance and Columbia… I believe the talent from Peter Tuffy Peter Ecomputing (HPC) was praised at a the three organisations, and the relentless University event, heralding the next phase pursuit of excellence, will flourish into of the UK’s supercomputing programme. a long-lasting contribution to the HPC development.” Speaking at the event, George Chiu, Advanced High Performance The University provides a home for two Systems Research Scientist at IBM, UK supercomputing facilities – HECToR commended the role of Edinburgh, (High-End Computing Terascale and in particular Richard Kenway, Tait Resources) and Blue Gene/Q. The next Professor of Mathematical Physics, in phase of development for these machines the development of IBM’s Blue Gene will see HECToR double its performance supercomputing project. and Blue Gene/Q upgraded to become one of the fastest computers in Europe. “The three-way alliance between The future’s bright: HECToR’s new look, Columbia [University], Edinburgh and This increased computing capacity designed by Lily Johnson, the 16-year-old IBM served as a fertile ground for the and performance will help support winner of a HECToR-themed schools art cross fertilisation of ideas,” said Mr Chiu. UK researchers to address a range of competition, was unveiled at the launch. “In the coming decade, I’m looking scientific challenges.

4 THE UNIVERSITY OF EDINBURGH STAFF MAGAZINE SPRING 2012 news... bulletin Angus Blackburn

The bulletin question

English Literature marks 250 years Why does the University need a nglish Literature is this year recipients include Ian McEwan, Zadie Qnew Strategic Plan? celebrating its 250th anniversary Smith, A S Byatt, Salman Rushdie, D H Professor Nigel Brown, Senior Ewith a packed programme of Lawrence and Graham Greene. Vice-Principal Planning, Resources & activities and events designed to involve Research Policy explains: This year English Literature students students, staff and alumni, as well as the wider Edinburgh community and many and staff will review all the previous The University’s Strategic Plan notable individuals from the literary world. winners and announce a shortlist of their 2008–2012 set the goals and general favourites at the Edinburgh International direction of the University throughout Events include readings, talks and Book Festival in August. A panel of writers the last four years, and we are now seminars on topics related to literature and celebrity alumni will then decide the Arevising these for the next four-year and writing, and an exhibition, “City of final winner. period, until 2016. Our core values, Words”, on literary criticism and literary our vision and our mission, and writing in Edinburgh, which opens in the our strategic goals of excellence in University’s Main Library in August. 8 To find out more about the learning and teaching, excellence anniversary and related events, visit The University will also be seeking to in research, and excellence in www.ed.ac.uk/news/events/english. identify the best winner of the James Tait commercialisation and knowledge Black Prizes. Founded in 1919, these FDiscover how English Literature exchange, will not change. University-run literary awards reward is providing opportunities for budding However, the environment in which writing in fiction and biography. Previous writers all over the world on page 14. we operate is changing markedly – reduction in capital investment, changing priorities of the research funders, encouragement for institutional collaboration, and student New awards for early-career researchers expectations, for example, require us he University has launched 100 the University and who have a strong to respond. We have also achieved many of the objectives of the current fellowships targeted at promising commitment to undergraduate and Plan. Therefore, some enablers and Tearly-career researchers. These postgraduate training. Academics strategic themes will change. awards, titled Chancellor’s Fellowships, wanting to work in interdisciplinary will be granted for five years and will be Court, Senate and the major University fields are particularly welcome. based in any one of the University’s committees have been consulted. 22 Schools. Applications can be made through the Staff focus groups have contributed University’s recruitment website. The significantly. Everyone has had the The University is looking for candidates closing date is 16 April. ability to influence the Strategic Plan whose research has the potential to and a draft will be available for further enhance the international reputation of 8 www.jobs.ed.ac.uk comment. We welcome your input.

SPRING 2012 THE UNIVERSITY OF EDINBURGH STAFF MAGAZINE 5 research in focus... research in focus

Step closer to Antarctic lake access A University-led project to explore a subglacial lake in Ipad app helps kids with autism Antarctica has edged closer to realising its objectives. This Education and Informatics researchers have developed an December, scientists will bore through three kilometres online tool that could help children with autism, from as young of ice to access Lake Ellsworth, a subglacial body of as 18 months, improve their social skills. The research team has water that has lain undisturbed for many thousands of developed a new Ipad game, called FindMe, which challenges years. Earlier this year a team of British Antarctic Survey children to find a character in different virtual scenarios. Players engineers returned to the UK after travelling from the West simply tap the character to move on to the next, more complex Antarctic ice sheet to put in place equipment and supplies level. Developers hope that the game will help children with to enable the next stage of the study. Scientists have autism practise basic socialising skills before entering nursery been planning to access the lake for more than 15 years. or primary school. The app is the first part of Click-East, a Researchers hope their quest will yield new knowledge proposed programme of University research into using new about the evolution of life on Earth and other planets. technology to provide support for individuals with autism.

Simulating sound Developing new treatments Building health solutions Music lecturer and acoustics researcher The University is to partner pharmaceutical James Smith, Professor of African and Dr Stefan Bilbao has been identified as an company Glaxosmithkline (GSK) to discover and Development Studies, has secured a Senior academic with potential, receiving a European develop drugs to treat severe acute pancreatitis. Investigator grant from the European Research Research Council Starting Grant, worth €1.5 The collaboration will build on work carried out council. The five-year award, worth almost million, for his project Listening to the Future: by College of Medicine & Veterinary Medicine €1.7 million, has been granted to a research Next-generation Sound Synthesis through researchers Mr Damian Mole and Dr Scott project called Investigating Networks of Zoonosis Simulation. The Starting Grant scheme helps Webster. The medics recently uncovered a Innovation that will analyse the policies and support promising researchers to carry out molecular mechanism believed to have a major projects that have shaped research into and independent research in Europe. Dr Bilbao role in triggering life-threatening multiple organ control of Human African Trypanosomiasis, will work with EPCC staff to investigate how failure – a condition that develops in one of a parasitic disease also known as sleeping to replicate natural-sounding synthetic sounds four cases of acute pancreatitis. The deal was sickness. As well as working with colleagues that emulate real instruments and how to negotiated by Edinburgh BioQuarter, which in the School of Social and Political Science, recreate sound that cannot be produced works closely with University researchers to Professor Smith will collaborate with Professor by conventional synthesis methods or help nurture the commercialisation of life Sue Welburn, Director of the University’s Global acoustic instruments. sciences research. Health Academy. ...awards news...awards news...awards news...awards news...awards news

6 THE UNIVERSITY OF EDINBURGH STAFF MAGAZINE SPRING 2012 research in focus... bulletin

researchers in Egypt uncovered the spotlight Researchers from the Clinical Research Imaging Centre and the bulletin highlights some of the University’s University’s Forensic Anthropology research milestones that have been hitting section have helped to unwrap the headlines. Egyptian secrets for the National Museum of fertility STUDY createS NEWS

C Rijksmuseum van Oudheden (Leiden, the Netherlands) Scotland’s Fascinating Dr Evelyn Telfer of the University’s Institute of Mummies exhibition. Using Ecology and Resource Management has been CT scanning equipment, making an international media splash with her the researchers looked role in a groundbreaking stem cell study. The inside Egyptian mummies, cell biologist, in collaboration with US-based never before unwrapped, research partners, has found a way to prompt to learn more about human egg production from ovarian stem what lay beneath. Their cells, potentially leading to new treatment for discoveries form a central infertility. The story was captured in numerous part of the exhibition, international publications including the Wall which runs until Street Journal, Boston Globe, Canadian Press 27 May 2012. and Bloomberg Businessweek. Mummy and x-ray of Ankhhor, a temple priest. Joining the conversation University academics are contributing to ongoing media debate about Scottish independence. Professor Tom Devine has been quoted in news sources all over the world, from Canada to , the Netherlands to the US, on what is becoming a hot media What I’m discovering… topic. Professor Stephen Tierney, Professor Thomas Giegerich, Professor Drew Scott, Dr Ailsa Henderson, Dejan Stjepanovic, and Dr Dr Wendy Ugolini is exploring Scottish diasporic military identities Nicola McEwan are also among University from 1880 to the present day, as part of a joint initiative between the staff members who have added their voices to Scottish Centre for Diaspora Studies and National Museums Scotland. coverage of independence.

“Our research project aims to develop a critical understanding of Delving into dark matter the complexity of connections between Scotland and its diasporic communities, addressing wider questions of ethnicity, identity and A global astronomy project has been hitting national belonging through an examination of the construction of headlines all over the world. Dr Catherine Heymans is among the University astronomers ‘military Scottishness’ overseas. It will focus on the period of the mass migration of the who are part of an international team of late 19th century up to the present day. researchers mapping dark matter on the largest “To date, no academic or comparative study has been undertaken on the topic of scale ever observed. The project has been Scottish diasporic military identity among the different Commonwealth nations and the followed heavily in the media, with the Daily social and cultural history of this military phenomenon remains relatively obscure. Telegraph, Sun, Sunday Times, El Mundo, the Discovery Channel and Fox, among the “In March, we hosted an international workshop bringing together leading academics newspapers and broadcasters covering and museum curators from Australia, Canada, New Zealand, South Africa and the UK. the story. We will follow this with a conference, to be held at the National Museum of Scotland in September 2012. li-fi in the limelight Professor Harald Haas’s Li-Fi concept is “Our research will help to inform the themes of an exhibition scheduled to mark the attracting worldwide media attention. The 2014 centenary exhibition on the First World War at the National War Museum at mobile communications expert’s innovation Edinburgh Castle. It will also enhance the working relationship between the University features in the Economist, Independent, New of Edinburgh’s School of History, Classics & Archaeology and National Museums of Zealand Herald, Great Mind Yuan News and Scotland, laying the groundwork for future collaboration and facilitating knowledge Wired magazine, among others. transfer and data sharing.” FRead an interview with Harald on page 8. 8 To find out more about this project, email [email protected].

SPRING 2012 THE UNIVERSITY OF EDINBURGH STAFF MAGAZINE 7 feature...

The light fantastic

Professor Harald Haas has invented pioneering technology to provide a greener, safer, cheaper and more flexible way to access the internet. Chris Small talks to the researcher about his light bulb moment. Laurence Winram

or a man who may become VLC technology uses light emitting to finessing his most famous creation, known for revolutionising the diode (LED) bulbs to transmit data at the Alexander Graham Bell’s photophone Fway we communicate and share same time as light. Harald found that by used a beam of light to send messages. information, Professor Harald Haas embedding a special electronic chip in That was in 1880. is remarkably unfazed by the buzz these bulbs, a large volume of data could More than a century later, Harald has surrounding him and his invention. be streamed using light in various forms – visible, infrared and ultraviolet. had to exercise some patience before “At the moment it’s not a big reaching his “Eureka” moment. achievement,” he says. “It’s only a big The technology, dubbed Li-Fi, has “The problem was always that optical achievement if it takes off.” profound and diverse implications for industry and personal communication, wireless communication has been around Chair of Mobile Communications at the with the potential for films to be watched and used in infrared remote controls Institute for Digital Communications in through lamplight at home; aeroplane for TVs but the data rate is very low,” he the University’s School of Engineering, passengers to use mobile phones and explains. “We have used a technique Harald has spent almost a decade the internet safely on flights; and deep- that is known in radio frequency researching the potential of visible light sea divers to communicate using LEDs. communications as OFDM [orthogonal communication (VLC). Its development is being spearheaded frequency-division multiplexing] and we knew it had a disadvantage for radio Now his work is paying off in the shape by the School of Engineering’s D-LIGHT project, led by Harald. frequency [RF]. of a radical new product: Harald has created a light-based alternative to Wi-Fi, VLC is an old and relatively untapped “But we managed to turn a fundamental sparking a race to market and labelling technology. Fittingly, Harald’s office is in disadvantage of OFDM when applied to him, appropriately, as a luminary in the Alexander Graham Bell Building, and RF into an advantage for VLC by enabling his field. the iconic inventor’s work resonates: prior high-data rates, faster than Wi-Fi, with

8 THE UNIVERSITY OF EDINBURGH STAFF MAGAZINE SPRING 2012 feature... bulletin

I know the opportunities are enormous and my goal is to try to help make this the leading company in this area for a number of years. I want to leave a legacy that people talk about afterwards.

line-up of dynamic thinkers that included “The University gives me the flexibility philosopher Alain de Botton, historian and freedom to pursue my research. It Niall Ferguson and artist Jae Rhim Lee. supported my VLC work early on,” he Harald’s TED outing was the first time he reveals. had publicly used the term Li-Fi, a name “What I find very useful is that internally I that has spread instantly. have many colleagues with whom I can “The TED talk was not only beneficial for collaborate – in Informatics or even in us but for everyone who’s been working Medicine I find people who are interested with applied light communications,” in my research.” Harald says. “Since then it has given The next step for Harald is to turn his us pronounced visibility across the venture into a commercial success globe. Even in October I heard people in through his spin-out company. Norway, Israel and the US have formed the Li-Fi Consortium and now everyone “I know the opportunities are enormous talks about Li-Fi.” and my goal is to try to help make this the leading company in this area for a The list of advantages Li-Fi could yield is, number of years. I want to leave a legacy he says, “really quite long”. that people talk about afterwards,” he says. “It’s green, it’s safe, it’s available and it’s But if his research does result in a free,” he explains. “We use LED light, technology that’s embraced around the which is energy efficient. A five-watt world, the seeds of its success won’t lie in LED bulb produces as much light as a an orthodox approach to work. 60-watt incandescent light, so by some off-the-shelf light emitting diodes [LEDs] calculations if the world replaced all its “I don’t like doing things that are – that was the breakthrough. It puts the incandescent light bulbs it could save mainstream, that everyone else does,” he whole thing on a totally different level.” about 100 nuclear power plants. admits. “That could fail but sometimes it brings big advantages – curiosity, new Overcoming these technical challenges “It’s also secure. We’re all afraid of Wi-Fi paths in research. I don’t like incremental means the invention is “very close” to that can be intercepted outside. It will work, I don’t like results for the sake of being on sale. be more difficult with Li-Fi because light new results. I want to create an impact.” will primarily stay within rooms and not “We have a company in place, pureVLC penetrate through walls. And it’s free – we Ltd, which is the result of a proof-of- don’t have to license the light spectrum, PROFESSOR HARALD HAAS CV concept project backed by Scottish it’s 10,000 times larger than the radio 1995–1997: Engineer, Siemens Enterprise, and now we are developing frequency spectrum.” the commercial technology as part of 2001: PhD from Edinburgh, ‘Interference the spin-out company,” explains Harald. Originally from Nuremberg in Germany, analysis of and dynamic channel assignment algorithms in TD–CDMA/TDD systems’ “We believe we’ll have a product on Harald worked as an engineer before the market later this year. We are very coming to Edinburgh for PhD study in 2002: Associate Professor of Electrical aggressive because after my talk at radio frequency wireless communication, Engineering, School of Engineering and Science, Jacobs University Bremen TED [Harald delivered a presentation at between 1997 and 2001. A stint as project manager at Siemens (Information TEDGlobal, an annual interdisciplinary 2007: Lecturer, School of Engineering / and Communication Mobile Networks) conference] there has been a lot of Institute of Digital Communications (IDCOM), followed. He then joined Jacobs the University of Edinburgh movement in this area.” University Bremen as Associate Professor 2010: Professor of Mobile Communications, Harald was joined at the conference, held of Electrical Engineering, before returning School of Engineering. in Edinburgh in July 2011, by an eclectic to the School of Engineering in 2007.

SPRING 2012 THE UNIVERSITY OF EDINBURGH STAFF MAGAZINE 9 feature...

Support system

The work of Academic Registry plays an integral part in enhancing the experience of the University’s 29,000 students. In the past 18 months, this crucial support service has evolved extensively to reinforce its position at the heart of University business. bulletin meets the team.

orking closely with Schools, The department has also made major Colleges and other support changes to its service, notably through W services, Academic Registry 2011’s launch of the Student Centre, the plays a critical role in every step of the culmination of a major refurbishment student journey. From registration through project to transform Old College’s Reid to graduation, Academic Registry staff Foyer, at the south side of Old College, members are among the first and last into a contemporary, welcoming and University representatives whom students professional environment for students encounter throughout their academic accessing Academic Registry services. life cycle. “Students have reacted very well to it,” “We’re part of the glue that binds the says Rio. “A standard has been achieved, whole thing together,” explains Director and it’s clear there’s been investment in of Academic Registry Rio Watt. “We’re the Student Centre, which reinforces the constantly there in the student journey – importance of students to the institution.” the start of the year, during the year, the The physical transformation of the end of the year. We interact with every space in many ways represents the part of what students do at the University department’s commitment to adapting – paying fees, receiving scholarships, its service to meet the ever-changing receiving discretionary funds, changing demands of the 21st-century student. programmes, exams, supporting “We have moved a lot of our work online. academic governance and the existing We’re moving to full online registration corporate student, admissions and and student self service next year, which curricula applications.” is important to our students, particularly In the past 18 months, the department’s those who are international or distance remit has expanded and as well as education students,” Rio adds. hosting the Student Administration Investment in new systems is a section and nine-year-old Scholarship significant ambition for Rio’s team, and Office, Academic Registry now provides developments over the last six years have a home for key University support units helped build a model that can adapt to Academic Services, Student Admissions the rapidly evolving higher education and Curricula Systems (SACS), and the environment. Timetabling and Room Booking Unit. >>> Continued on page 12 Photography by Callum Bennetts @ Maverick Photo Agency

10 THE UNIVERSITY OF EDINBURGH STAFF MAGAZINE SPRING 2012 feature... bulletin

Profile: Student Admissions and Curricula Systems

Bruce Johnson is Head of Student Admissions and Curricula Systems (SACS), which joined Academic Registry in January 2011. The unit is tasked with managing, developing and supporting the existing corporate student, admissions and curricula applications. “We manage delivery of business processes through software, working with key stakeholders and Information Services. We support myriad processes and systems, and an extensive user base. We act in the strategic interests of the University, particularly when managing key outputs such as the HESA Student Returns and Key Information Sets. “One of the University’s key strategic Profile: Timetabling and Room Booking Unit themes is to enhance the student experience. However, we also prevent the student experience from degrading. Scott Rosie (pictured, left), Timetabling For instance, SAAS has introduced and Learning Space Manager, joined We’re absolutely putting a new information transfer process, the University last year to head up the and if we don’t implement it, students Timetabling and Room Booking Unit, the student experience at won’t get support payments, and the responsible for delivering a major project the heart of what we do. University won’t get any tuition fees. to transform the timetabling process. “The timescales required by external “We’re absolutely putting the student agencies are getting shorter and experience at the heart of what we do. The ultimate objective of the timetabling project shorter, and the cumulative number of is to use good-quality curriculum data to generate more efficient timetables that can be initiatives increasing, and that’s very of benefit to students and staff. demanding. Key Information Sets is the most recent example. It’s a big “Two key benefits will be personal timetables for students and also curriculum-based development in very short timescales. planning, which will be designed to bring greater flexibility to the timetabling process, potentially giving students more choice. “We do have a vision, we do have goals, and we know what we want “Personal timetables are really the biggest driver. There’s an expectation from students to achieve. While we can improve that they should be able to switch on their smartphone, look at their calendar and have the student experience directly – activities drop into it that relate to them. So it’s really about delivering that level for example, by facilitating online of service. matriculation by students – we can “We’re very conscious that the University is committed to the enhancement of the also develop business processes and student experience. As such, we’re also looking for ways in which to formalise student systems to enable others to improve feedback for the services the Timetabling Unit provides; both in relation to the teaching the student experience.” space they occupy and the personalised information they receive.”

SPRING 2012 THE UNIVERSITY OF EDINBURGH STAFF MAGAZINE 11 Photography by Callum Bennetts @ Maverick 12 >>> Supportsystemcontinuedfrompage10 recent changesinthesectorhave Academic Registrycarriesout.Other greatly onthewide-rangingworkthat of theexternalfactorsthatcanimpact UKBA requirementsareanexample protect oursponsorstatus.” with theirvisaregulations,andthatwe for ourstudentstoensuretheycomply have triedtomakeitassimpleandeasy managed migrationregulationsandwe on students.We’re governedbyUKBA- the impactofUKBA[UKBorderAgency] she pointsout.“We’re veryconsciousof challenges tomanageinachievingthis,” accessible butwehavesomesignificant “Our jobistomakestudentadministration feature... THE UNIVERSITY OF EDINBURGH STAFF MAGAZINE Profile: StudentAdministrationServices partnerships withawiderange of Universitydepartments.” can onlybeachievedwiththe support andassistanceofanexcellent networkof “We’re primarilyasupportdepartmentandthesuccessful deliveryofourservice for theseexternalpurposes. data qualityenhancementstrategy tomakesurewehavethebestpossibledata number ofpeopleusingthatinformationissteadilygrowing. We’re developinga “There’s alotmoreemphasisonthestudentrecordandinformation, andthe services weprovideandinhowinteractwithstudents. within whichweoperate.We havetoensurethatthisisreflectedinthetypeof “Our biggest challenge is the constantly changing internal and external environment and theUniversity’s,continuingcommitmenttothisgoal. students. TheopeningofthenewstudentcentreinOldCollege hasshown our, “Our overallaimistoprovideawelcoming,efficientandprofessional serviceto requirements forinternationalstudents. student queries,recordmaintenance,transcriptsandUKBorder Agency 20, whichisresponsibleformatriculation,graduations,exams,thestudent centre, Head ofStudentAdministrationServicesCraigShearerleadsateamaround environment. and external changing internal the constantly challenge is Our biggest enhances students’experiences.” big corporatesolutions,which Schools, Collegesandotherservicesto because wecontributeinpartnershipwith in thepersonaltutorsproject.We’re central We’re embeddednowintimetablingand link upwithstrategicUniversityprojects. says Rio.“We lookforopportunitiesto “We’re constantlylookingtoimprove,” the department’sremit. University initiativesarealsoatthecoreof Academic Registryissupporting.Internal such asKey InformationSets,which for theteam,andalsostatutoryissues which accompanymultipleimplications included theintroductionofRUKfees,

Paul Dodds Agency Scotland andtheStudent all ourUKstudentstoStudent Awards to reportbacktheenrolmentstatus of our studentsshouldpay, andit’sourjob determining theleveloftuition fee that “The othersideistuitionfeeassessment, but it’salsoveryrewarding. their place.It’sachangingenvironment, they simplywouldn’tbeabletotakeup didn’t havethefundingwemakeavailable changing lives.For manystudents ifthey “Our straplineissupportingstudentsand assessing studentfeestatus. as makingtuitionfeeassessmentsand scholarships andfinancialaid,aswell are responsibleformanagingbursaries, Student Funding Services,andhisteam Robert Lawrie,HeadofScholarshipsand Profile: Scholarships andStudentFundingServices SPRING 2012 Profile: ScholarshipsandStudentFundingServices SPRING 2012 receiving upto £28,000. students studyingonafour-year degree the lowestincomebracket,which willsee bursary schemeintheUKforthose in glad tosaythatweareoffering thebest of £9,000peryearfromnextsession. I’m who willbepayingthehigherrateoffee England, Wales andNorthern Ireland, Scheme, specificallyforstudentsfrom introduce theEdinburghRUKBursary bursaries andscholarships.We will investment theUniversityisputtingin the pastnineyearsissignificant “The greatestchangeI’veseenover maintenance payments. also studentswouldn’treceivetheir receive theirtuitionfeepaymentsand timely reporting,theUniversitywouldn’t Loans Company. Basically, withoutthat feature... Irene Bruce(lefttoright). heads CraigShearer, RobertLawrieand Registry isviaOldCollegeQuad;section Student Centre;accesstoAcademic Clockwise frommainimage:Thenew

Paul Dodds as manyuniversities justdon’thavethat.” have acentralisedscholarships office– Council. We’re inapositivepositionto Commission, aswelltheBritish the CommonwealthScholarships Commission, theFulbright Commission, good relationshipswiththeMarshall key fundingproviders.We’ve gotvery “I’ve gotapersonallinkwithlotofthe and scholarships. putting inbursaries the Universityis significant investment past nineyearsisthe I’ve seenoverthe The greatestchange THEUNIVERSITY OF EDINBURGH STAFF MAGAZINE face.” is oneofthegreatestchallenges we activities andinstitutionalinitiatives, notice, onthedeliveryofourcore implementation atrelativelyshort requirements, whichofteninvolves development andcompliance “Managing theimpactofexternal Sets reporting. sector objectives,likeKey Information as institutionalprioritiesandexternal management ofkeyprojectsidentified activities includethecoordinationand regulatory framework.Enhancement University’s academicgovernanceand University andforsupportingthe of policyandstrategyacrossthe implementation andmonitoring coordinating thedevelopment, “Our keyresponsibilitiesinclude achieved. ensure institutionalobjectivesare and administrativecolleaguesto working withacademic,professional developing apartnershipapproachto “The departmentiscommittedto and EUSA. Governance andStrategicPlanning, Institute forAcademicDevelopment, including Colleges,Schools,the Framework, andinternalstakeholders Scottish CreditandQualifications Agency, ScottishFunding Council, for exampletheQualityAssurance a widerangeofexternalstakeholders, “Academic Servicesworkscloselywith continuously promotedandsustained. culture withintheUniversityis achievement ofaqualityenhancement of thequalityagendaand the internalandexternalperception experience, itisimportantthatboth the enhancementofstudent “As theUniversityiscommittedto of theUniversity’sprovision. to bothensureandenhancethequality coordination ofkeyactivitiesdesigned The Unitisresponsibleforthe 2011 asHeadofAcademicServices. Irene BrucejoinedtheUniversityin Academic Services Profile: bulletin 13 feature... Creative connections

As the University prepares to launch its new online Masters in Creative Writing, Edd McCracken talks to programme leader Dilys Rose about adapting to the digital environment.

s a writer fluent in multiple styles the first time. There are and forms, Dilys Rose, Creative possibly more written skills AWriting Lecturer and former involved in online teaching University Writer-in-Residence, knows than there might be in a how to adapt and diversify. The award- classroom setting.” winning author, best known for her The online Masters in Creative short fiction and poetry, is no stranger Writing is one of the first to creative collaboration, having made beneficiaries of the University’s artistic connections with painters and Distance Education Initiative (DEI), composers for projects in theatre, opera which offers money to Schools and the visual arts. wishing to launch postgraduate online But it is Dilys’s most recent venture that learning. Its first students will start in will most test the adaptability of her skills. September. After almost a decade of playing an Dilys began developing the idea in integral role in the University’s Masters January 2011 after noting the difficulties in Creative Writing, she is translating the a number of international students could successful campus-based degree into encounter when they considered study the digital form. in Edinburgh. Market research found that “Setting up the programme has been most rival programmes offered a mixture time consuming, but it’s exciting,” she of online teaching with a residential says. “Being a writer online makes a element. Very few offered to teach the lot of sense. You have to get your point finer points of crafting fiction or poetry across with the written word. You can’t completely online. Fewer programmes use the advantages of talking face to still came from cities or universities with face, repeating yourself or rephrasing the literary heft of Edinburgh. A niche what you’ve said. You have to get it right presented itself.

14 THE UNIVERSITY OF EDINBURGH STAFF MAGAZINE SPRING 2012 feature... bulletin

After compiling a business case, Dilys was granted funding in June 2011 and began hiring staff. A deputy director, learning technologist and part-time One of the ideas I want administrator recently came into post, to focus on with this and off-campus tutors are still to be hired. The course has a limited ratio of one tutor programme is where for every 10 students. people are writing from “It’s been a huge learning curve,” says and how that informs Dilys. “There are a huge number of areas their writing. of the University that I had very little idea existed. It’s important that if you’re setting up a programme you get as much help asynchronous teaching – some seminars as you possibly can.” will be delivered live via the internet, with Dilys worked closely with the University’s alternative times of delivery to ensure that Communications and Marketing team to no one has to be at their computer at two develop a plan for promoting the Masters. in the morning, while other parts of the Programme flyers have been distributed course will be done in the students’ around Edinburgh’s main literary events own time. and haunts, such as the Edinburgh “We have to make sure that everyone is International Book Festival and the getting the most involvement out of the Traverse Theatre. In February this year an programme that they can,” says Dilys. advertising campaign was launched via a “That’s why there’s a combination. A lot range of online marketing strategies. of distance learning courses have no live One of the key differences between interaction. But it seems a bit silly not to the campus version of the Masters in use the live possibilities. From my own Creative Writing and its new online sibling experience of online teaching, it does is flexibility. The former programme is full make a huge difference.” time and lasts a year, and the latter can Individual consultations between tutor be taken part time and lasts three years. and student will take place via Skype “We wanted to give them that bit longer, and through textual commentary. Weekly which might give the students more writing workshops, in which students cause for reflection. That’s not a bad gain vital peer feedback, will be replaced thing for writers,” Dilys explains. by online writing forums, which will be less frequent but last for longer. The time She also has fresh expectations about the students spend to hone their craft will, work students will produce. Programme however, remain the same across the participants are likely to be based all year. A virtual cafe will provide an informal over the world. The diverse geographical meeting space for social interaction and and cultural backgrounds will affect off-topic chat. their stories and poems. For Dilys, this diversity has the potential to add texture For now, Dilys is keeping simple the art to the learning experience: “One of of adapting the programme to the digital the ideas I want to focus on with this world. But she admits the rise of people programme is where people are writing accessing literature through digital means from and how that informs their writing could mould it further. and what we can learn from each She says: “We have a clear plan, but we other’s cultures.” can’t be inflexible. It’s the first time and The distance learning programme we’re happy to adapt to what students will be a mixture of synchronous and find works well for them.”

Going the distance? The University launched the Distance Education Initative (DEI) in 2010 to support Schools to develop online postgraduate programmes. For information, visit the DEI wiki at www.wiki.ed.ac.uk/display/DistanceEducationInitiative/DEI.

SPRING 2012 THE UNIVERSITY OF EDINBURGH STAFF MAGAZINE 15 photo story... Lessons on life and death

facial cast of murderer William Burke is among a fascinating collection of medical artefacts now on display Ato the public at the University’s Anatomical Museum. The cast was taken shortly before the notorious criminal’s execution in 1829, and is part of a William Ramsay Henderson Trust collection of life and death masks of notable individuals, including Sir Walter Scott, William Shakespeare and Kings George III and IV. Hundreds of other artefacts are on display at the newly refurbished museum, which, until recently, was only open to University staff and students. Among the fascinating items are William Burke’s skeleton, a polar bear skull, a preserved human body that was embalmed in the late 1790s and a collection of anatomy teaching models, some of which are still in use. Museum visitors can also visit the University’s historic Anatomy Lecture Theatre, which was designed by architect Rowand Anderson in 1884 and is still operative. • The Anatomical Museum is open on the last Saturday of the month, from 10am to 4pm.

This page, clockwise from top right: Phrenology bust; William Burke’s skeleton; the death mask of the famous graverobber; the museum’s spectacular entrance. Hugh Pastoll; the University of Edinburgh Hugh Pastoll;

16 THE UNIVERSITY OF EDINBURGH STAFF MAGAZINE SPRING 2012 photo story... bulletin

Historic centrepiece The Anatomical Museum Hall was once the splendid centrepiece of the Teviot Medical School, which opened in 1884. Originally housed over three storeys, the Museum was reduced to a single upper storey in the 1950s. Over the centuries, the Museum’s many human and zoological specimens have served as research tools as well as exhibits. The collections were built up by William Turner, Edinburgh’s Professor of Anatomy from 1867 to 1903 and Principal from 1903 to 1917.

This page, clockwise from top left: The Anatomy Museum, circa 1898; specimens for study; the skull of 16th-century humanist and historian George Buchanan; anatomy model, once used in teaching.

SPRING 2012 THE UNIVERSITY OF EDINBURGH STAFF MAGAZINE 17 opinion...

One of the crowd

Enhancing the student he messages Overall the study found that the majority that international of students (home and international) experience is a Tstudents interviewed and surveyed expressed take back to their satisfaction with the range of support significant strategic communities about services provided by universities. their experience of Services in the main were provided aim for the University. university support equitably for home and international Dr Rowena Arshad services and learning students. However, students revealed Dr Rowena Arshad facilities should be they were not always aware of the support examines what more an important consideration of any higher services available at their institution. They education internationalisation strategy attributed this lack of awareness in part to universities can do to and for those tasked with improving the an overload of information about services student experience. at the beginning of the academic year, ensure both home and but also to uncertainty about what the The Centre for Education for Racial service provided and its relevance for international students Equality in Scotland (CERES), based at them personally. the University’s School of Education, have adequate access has been conducting research to explore While good practice was evident in three key areas relating to the provision all support services looked at, there to support services. of an inclusive environment on campus was room for improvement in all. across the higher education sector. Some of the areas to highlight include addressing the role of alcohol in UK Evaluating the opinions of more than student culture, supporting students 1,100 students and 71 staff from six with dependants, developing greater Scottish universities, researchers integration between staff and students investigated the equity of support from an increasing diversity of cultures, Illustration: Emily Cullen, second-year BA and professional services available to and building community links, particularly (Hons) Illustration student at Edinburgh home and international students, the with organisations serving black and College of Art (www.emily-cullen. relationships between staff and students, minority ethnic (BME) communities, at an blogspot.com). and community engagement. institutional level.

18 THE UNIVERSITY OF EDINBURGH STAFF MAGAZINE SPRING 2012 bulletin

Alcohol and student culture Campus cohesion organisations, such as the Citizens Staff expressed concerns about the Staff identified a continued need to Advice Bureau and organisations working health aspects of heavy drinking, provide academic and support staff with BME communities and issues. Such particularly affecting overseas students with greater knowledge and skills to partnerships could generate another tier who might not be used to drinking to work with students from increasingly of support for home and international excess, but feel they need to in order to diverse backgrounds. However, similar students, thereby assisting the overall “fit in”. International students were also educational activity is also required in student experience. concerned that too many student social the student body. To take forward greater activities revolved around alcohol, which campus cohesion in class and beyond, Dr Rowena Arshad is Head of the Institute restricted opportunities to integrate for there needs to be more scope for all staff for Education, Community & Society; students who do not drink. Staff and and students to discuss what increasing Associate Dean for Student Academic students called for a more “café-like” diversity means for them at a day-to-day Misconduct and Co-Director of CERES. culture to be developed, which would level but also to have opportunities to The piece draws from the CERES report, have wider appeal. address tensions that might arise from Attracting International Students: Equitable greater diversity. Services & Support, Campus Cohesion Supporting students with dependants and Community Engagement, funded by A need to provide more information Community links the Equality Challenge Unit and produced about childcare and schooling (early While students were aware that their in collaboration with the Centre for Rural years to secondary) to students with university could help them access and Remote Studies at the University dependants was identified. Information information to enable them to get involved of Highlands and Islands. It will be is also required about the availability with the community, and had actively published in April 2012. of youth services, further education done so, the majority of students options, and English language classes interviewed and surveyed indicated the 8 www.education.ed.ac.uk/ceres based within local adult education connections they did have with community programmes. Students also indicated groups were ones they had made a need for more practical information themselves rather than through any Do you work in a student support role about everyday living, such as details guidance from their university. There is at the University? Share your views via about local neighbourhoods, places to definite scope for improvement for email at [email protected] or tweet buy international foods, and the National universities to develop better partnerships us @UoE_staff. Health Service. and synergies with local communities and

SPRING 2012 THE UNIVERSITY OF EDINBURGH STAFF MAGAZINE 19 people news... people news

Recognition for outstanding staff

hree members of staff have of his role in developing been announced as the distance education in health, This award is a Twinners of 2011’s Principal’s his contribution to capacity- Medals. building educational activities in reflection on the developing countries, and his The inaugural Principal’s Medal amazing and involvement in establishing the for Outstanding Service was University’s Global Academies. inspirational Karen Bowman awarded jointly to Karen Bowman, Director of Procurement, and Jake “This award really is a reflection Global Academies Broadhurst, International Projects on the amazing and inspirational community… Manager. Dr Chris Speed, Reader Global Academies community in Digital Architecture, received that spans academic and support Dr Speed is Principal Investigator the Principal’s Medal for Service roles across the University,” for the £1.4 million RCUK Digital to the Community. comments Mr Broadhurst. Economy Project TOTeM (Tales of The Principal’s Medal for Launched in 2008, the Principal’s Things and Electronic Memory), a Outstanding Service was Medal for Service to the project that has been substantially Jake Broadhurst launched in March 2011 to reward Community rewards staff or outreached to the public through staff members who have made students who make an impactful a broad range of arts and an exceptional contribution to the contribution to the community. community-based events. University community. Ms Bowman has been recognised Nominate a deserving colleague Do you know someone who deserves University recognition? for her leadership and delivery Nominations are now open for the Principal’s Medals, Chancellor’s of excellence in procurement at Awards and the Prize for Public Engagement. the University. She shared the accolade with Mr Broadhurst, who 8 Visit www.ed.ac.uk/news/staff/staff-awards-140212 Dr Chris Speed was awarded in recognition

City award for Professor Higgs

meritus Professor Peter Higgs has been recognised by the Peter Tuffy Peter ECity of Edinburgh Council for his outstanding contribution to Scotland’s capital. The theoretical physicist has been awarded 2011’s Edinburgh Award. To mark the award, a sculpture of Professor Higgs’s handprints has been installed on a flagstone in the City Chambers quadrangle. Previous recipients of the honour include Sir Chris Hoy and J K Rowling. 8 Watch an interview with Professor Higgs at www.ed.ac.uk/news/all-news/ higgs-230212.

20 THE UNIVERSITY OF EDINBURGH STAFF MAGAZINE SPRING 2012 people news... bulletin

people news in brief…

Top prize for HR coordinator Linsay McKeown, HR Coordinator at Accommodation Services, has been named HR Assistant/HR Officer of the Year by HR Network Scotland. Ms McKeown was nominated for the award by her manager, Lee-Anne Goodbrand, Senior HR Adviser at Accommodation Services. “This award recognises the tremendous quality of work done by Linsay and it reflects well on the standard of professionalism throughout HR at the University,” comments Sheila Gupta, the University’s Director of HR. Engineering trio takes up rally challenge AN influential appointment team from the University’s Institute off from London, along with about 400 Professor Mona Siddiqui has been named as for Infrastructure and Environment other participants, in July. one of Scotland’s most influential women by (IIE) is to cross some of the world’s the Herald. Earlier this year, she was appointed A The annual rally was launched in 2004 roughest terrain to raise money for charity. as the University’s new Assistant Principal for to support and raise awareness Religion and Society and Professor of Islamic The team, comprising Dr Luke Bisby, Dr of the Lotus Children’s Center in and Inter-religious studies. Professor Siddiqui Craig Warren and PhD student Steffan Mongolia, which works with vulnerable is the first Muslim professor to be based at the Kahrmann, is participating in the Mongol children and families. The team of School of Divinity. She will carry out teaching Rally, described as the world’s largest engineers, called Khannonball Run, and research on Islamic theology, ethics and charity rally. will donate half of the money they raise Christian–Muslim relations. to the Lotus Children’s Center and the In a 1.2 litre engine car, the fundraisers remainder to the Scottish Association for literary career on track will cover approximately one third of Mental Health. Catriona Child, Admissions Assistant with the world’s circumference, travelling the College of Science & Engineering, has approximately 10,000 miles, through published her first novel. Set in Edinburgh, 17 countries including Iran, Uzbekistan, 8 For more information on the team visit Trackman (Luath Press), tells the story of Kazakhstan and Russia. The trio will set www.khannonballrun.co.uk. a young man who helps strangers in need through the power of music. Ms Child was the winner of the Sunday Herald blog competition Professor Devine honoured for public connection and has previously been published in literary magazine Northwords Now. The Herald review said her debut had “all the makings of a eading historian Fraser Professor of Scottish History and cult hit.” Professor Tom Palaeography now holds the post of LDevine has Senior Research Professor in History, Servitor’s Olympic charity run been awarded the focusing on new research and supporting RSE Beltane Senior the next generation of history researchers. University servitor Stuart Christie is to embark on a 400-mile run to raise money for charity. Prize for Public Among his many accolades are the On 27 July – coinciding with the Olympics’ Engagement 2012. OBE for services to Scottish History opening ceremony – the servitor will run from The award recognises and the Royal Society of Edinburgh’s Edinburgh to London, running about 50 miles excellence in engaging the public with Royal Medal, recognised as Scotland’s a day. He aims to raise money for a range of academic research. supreme academic honour. charities, including Cancer Research UK, MS Scotland, Enable Scotland and Alzheimer The eminent historian, who is Director Scotland. of the University’s Scottish Centre 8 Hear what Professor Devine has 8 Find out more at www.justgiving.com/ for Diaspora Studies, has enjoyed to say on the Scottish independence StuartChristie2012. an academic career, spanning more debate at www.ed.ac.uk/news/all-news/ than 40 years. The former Sir William devine-310112.

SPRING 2012 THE UNIVERSITY OF EDINBURGH STAFF MAGAZINE 21 people news...

New RSE fellows announced

leven University of Edinburgh academics have been made 2012 RSE Fellows Fellows of the Royal Society of E University staff joining the new RSE intake are: Edinburgh (RSE). Professor Polly Arnold, Chair of Synthetic Inorganic They join a prestigious fellowship of 1,500 Chemistry; Professor David Cameron, Clinical individuals who have each demonstrated Director of the Edinburgh Cancer Research significant achievement in a broad range UK Centre; Rebecca Cheung, Professor of of fields. Nanoelectronics; Hilary Critchley, Professor of

Callum Bennetts @ Maverick Photo Agency Reproductive Medicine; Heather Cubie, Honorary Representatives from each of the Professor of Research and Research Management; University’s three colleges made Jane Dawson, Professor of Reformation History; the Fellowship. More than half of the John Iredale, Professor of Medicine; Simon Kirby, Edinburgh academics elected are female. Professor of Language Evolution; Loeske Kruuk, “I am pleased to welcome such a Professor of Evolutionary Ecology; Professor talented group of people to the RSE,” Gareth Leng, Head of the School of Biomedical says Sir John Arbuthnott, RSE President. Sciences; Leonid Libkin, Professor of Foundations “It is also encouraging that the proportion Professor Lesley of Data Management; Professor Lesley Yellowlees, Yellowlees of female Fellows elected is the highest in Head of the College of Science & Engineering. the history of the Society in a single year.”

obituary Martin Lowe (1940–2011)

artin Lowe His time at Edinburgh had a distinctive redefine its place among the leading served as start. Due to an accident, he missed his universities of the UK and Europe. MSecretary interview, and there was a considerable to the University of delay before he was able to attend – on In all of this and in the years that followed Edinburgh from 1990 crutches. Two successive Principals found the University remained in the business until his retirement in that a congenial, wise and careful Head of seeking teaching and research 2002. Before that he of Administration was their good fortune. excellence. This cannot be done by a was, for nine years, university deficient in the management Secretary and Registrar to the University In Martin’s early years at the University, necessary to run an efficient registry, there was a financial crisis that, as we of St Andrews, his alma mater. finance office, Court function and a dealt with and escaped from it, shaped huge and varied estate. Martin inherited, He had wide experience of the university much of the next 10 years. A master appointed, and maintained an excellent world, gained both in the UK and stroke was Martin’s recruitment of a team, and the University flourished. beyond, initially via the British Council former colleague from St Andrews, in Tanzania, and then at the University Charles Gordon, to lead the restructuring Happily, he sustained in employment of Strathclyde, where he worked for of the University’s financial processes. 12 years, including as Secretary to the and retirement his love of the Scottish Senate. His international connections This was complemented by a reshaping mountains, and his exceptional skill as included work with universities in of the University’s management of the a piper. His untimely death at the age of Sweden, Indonesia and Nigeria, interaction between academic ends and 71 in October 2011 is a loss we share and through the Association of financial means. What resulted was a with his wife, Janet, and his four children Commonwealth Universities. financially sound institution ready to and eight grandchildren. Lord Stewart Sutherland Principal 1994–2002

22 THE UNIVERSITY OF EDINBURGH STAFF MAGAZINE SPRING 2012 people news... bulletin My nine to five:Kathy McMillan

Kathy McMillan is Practice Development Manager within Counselling and Psychotherapy. She is responsible for finding placement opportunities for Counselling students and manages the Hope Park Counselling Centre, which was set up in 2010 and is one of only four University-based counselling centres in the UK. She shares insights into her working life with bulletin.

Hope Park is a counselling and research centre for our I started professional life as a teacher, and I’ve worked for students who are on professional training courses to do some charities and businesses throughout my life. All my jobs have or all of their practice hours. It was set up to enable them to been dealing with people, so they’ve all helped me to become work as trainee counsellors in a supported environment. the person I am. It’s been really lovely to see Hope Park grow into a centre For more information on Hope Park visit www.hopepark.org.uk. that now sees around 50 clients a week. Hope Park Counselling does not take University staff or students I have a lot of contact with students. I’m one of a team of as clients. The University offers separate counselling services people who support them on their journey. For some, it’s a real for staff and students. journey of self-development, self-awareness and just finding out 8 www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/human-resources/ about themselves and others. about/staff-counselling Everything I do is about people. It’s a very people-focused 8 www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/student- job. I just like being with people, learning about people and counselling talking to people. It’s important that the University of Edinburgh has a good relationship with local counselling agencies so that they take our students on placement. I’m the critical link between the University and the agencies – that’s the other half of my job. … and relax I couldn’t do this job without a team. I need people to Lunch spot bounce ideas off and to share things with. I haven’t got all the The Mosque Kitchen. answers and I’ve got colleagues who are really skilled and really Best view in Edinburgh knowledgeable and I don’t believe in trying to do that all myself. At the top of the wheel I’d much rather ask somebody for some advice or help. [at Winter Wonderland in I don’t like chaos. I like to know what I’ve got to do each day Princes Street Gardens] and I like to be prepared. just before Christmas. That was amazing. I was scared I tend to have set routines but not the same routine every out of my life! day. No two days are the same and all sorts of things can crop up. Ideal holiday I’ve learned a lot about anxiety and stress. I try to go to yoga I have two ideal holidays. One is lying on the beach doing and Pilates once a week. They are the two things that keep me nothing. The other is walking in the hills. mindful about my health and that slow me down – otherwise I’m just on the go all the time. Favourite time of year Spring. I rarely work at the weekend. I like being outdoors. I’ll try to walk up a hill or go for a cycle – something that gets me out of Perfect way to spend a Sunday afternoon an indoors environment, to just try to switch off from work or any A long walk in the country.

trivia at home. Edinburgh Inspiring Capital

SPRING 2012 THE UNIVERSITY OF EDINBURGH STAFF MAGAZINE 23 health... health & wellbeing

In every edition of bulletin, we round up the tips, policies and activities designed to keep you fit, healthy and well at work Looking for new and beyond. Visit www.ed.ac.uk/staff/ health-wellbeing for more advice and challenges? information. he University offers access to a number of volunteering opportunities. Staff can get involved in welcoming our Tinternational students through the Hospitality Scheme Equality expert launches LGBT network for International Students, or arts and sports lovers can volunteer to help out with the Talbot Rice Gallery and Scottish he University has launched a lesbian, University Sports. gay, bisexual, transgender (LGBT) Tstaff network. The group’s inaugural Volunteering can not only make a difference to other meeting was attended by writer and people’s lives, but has been proven to improve the health broadcaster Simon Fanshawe (pictured and wellbeing of the volunteer. Plus, it can also offer a left), who gave a presentation to the group. chance for individuals to use existing skills or develop The former comedian, who also works as a new talents in a way that can help people and benefit to consultant on equality and diversity issues, the community. spoke at the network’s first meeting at the beginning of March. Lesley Pert, Health and Safety Adviser with Accommodation Anyone interested in getting involved should email Dave Rigby Services, volunteers in her spare time for the National at University Human Resources Services. All responses will be Autistic Society’s Education Rights Services. treated as confidential. “Volunteering allows you to experience things not always 8 [email protected] available to you elsewhere,” she says. “It can also introduce you to new people, often from different backgrounds or cultures, enhancing your social network and social Cycling safety roadshows wellbeing.” Fitting in time to volunteer can be difficult for people with he University is taking part in a citywide cycling safety busy lives, but volunteering does not have to mean giving initiative, run by the City of Edinburgh Council and Lothian up your evenings, weekends and lunch hours on a regular Tand Borders Police. basis. Helping out at one-off events or taking part in volunteering holidays can be just as rewarding. As part of the Streets Ahead project, cyclists will be able to drop in to a series of road safety roadshows taking place throughout “Commitment is important, so thought has to be given the city in April. Road safety experts will be handing out cycling to what time you can give and sustain. However some giveaways and answering questions and staff from Lothians and volunteering work can be flexible,” suggests Lesley. “It is Border Police will security mark and electronically tag bicycles. important to choose carefully, and consider what the work entails and how it will fit in with your life.” Roadshow schedule For more information about volunteering at the University The roadshow will visit the University on the following dates: 8 visit http://tinyurl.com/7lxyrqw. • Tuesday 3 April, 11am–2pm, Bristo Square • Wednesday 4 April, 11am–2pm, Edinburgh Royal Infirmary Do you volunteer? We’d like to hear your stories and • Thursday 5 April, 11am–2pm, King’s Buildings House experiences. Tweet us @UoE_staff or email us at [email protected]. 8 www.streetsaheadedinburgh.org.uk

24 THE UNIVERSITY OF EDINBURGH STAFF MAGAZINE SPRING 2012 health... bulletin

University commits to cut mental illness stigma

he University has signed a national pledge to reduce mental health discrimination in the workplace. The pledge is part of the Scottish TGovernment’s “See Me” campaign, which launched to help reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues. To support its pledge to the campaign, the University has created an action plan outlining measures to improve training and awareness of mental health issues, throughout the organisation. The action plan is available from the University’s Health and Wellbeing and Equality and Diversity websites. 8 www.ed.ac.uk/staff/health-wellbeing www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/equality-diversity

Image: Scott Liddell

CSE upgrades equipment

he Centre for Sport and Exercise More than 100 of the new machines has invested in new cardio-vascular have been installed and each piece of Get involved T(CV) equipment. Members of the equipment has touch-screen consoles University staff memberships are facility, regularly voted “the best gym in with flexible Ipod and Iphone connections available from just £15 per month. town”, can now work out using the Precor to allow users to listen to their choice of For further details, visit the website or 880 line of CV equipment, which includes music or watch their choice of film in high call 0131 650 2585 to speak with a state-of-the-art treadmills, cross trainers, definition, while exercising. Gym-goers member of CSE staff. adaptive motion trainers, and recumbent can also choose from an extensive library 8 www.sport.ed.ac.uk and upright bikes. of preset fitness workouts.

SPRING 2012 THE UNIVERSITY OF EDINBURGH STAFF MAGAZINE 25 competition...

Spot the difference

he University has teamed up with RBFY TBeauty Studio in Edinburgh to offer one lucky reader a free pampering package, worth £350. To enter, just find five differences in our Spot the Difference puzzle. Compare the two pictures on the right. The image on the far right differs from the one on the left. Circle each difference and send us your entry by Monday 30 April to the address on page 2. Correct entries will be placed in a draw and the winner will be selected at random.

The University of Edinburgh Visitor Centre Next time you’re in Edinburgh, drop in and see us at the University’s Visitor Centre. Full of great gift ideas and University merchandise, there’s also a bookshop, free information and a great exhibition packed with interesting facts about the history of your University. We’re just next to Potterrow, between Bristo Square and George Square, at: 2 Charles Street Edinburgh EH8 9AD T 0131 650 2252 F 0131 650 2253 E [email protected]

26 THE UNIVERSITY OF EDINBURGH STAFF MAGAZINE SPRING 2012 noticeboard... bulletin

SPRING 2012 THE UNIVERSITY OF EDINBURGH STAFF MAGAZINE 27 showcase... Raymond Parks The University of Edinburgh is a charitable body, registered in Scotland, with registration number SC005336. The University of Edinburgh is a charitable body,

Showcase In every issue of bulletin we profile an item from the University Collections. Boosey & Co contrabass trombone From the Frank Tomes Collection Made in London in 1898, this impressive instrument belonged to the professional trombonists Arthur Falkner and Godfrey Kneller. It was for many years the contrabass trombone used in British performances of music from Wagner’s Ring cycle and was known in the profession as ‘King Kong’. This magnificent contrabass trombone plays an octave lower than the tenor trombone in C so the tubing has to be twice as long. The Frank Tomes Collection of musical instruments, assembled by the musician and instrument maker Frank Tomes, was recently donated to the University, and will be on display at the Reid Concert Hall Museum of Instruments from 7 April.

28 THE UNIVERSITY OF EDINBURGH STAFF MAGAZINE SPRING 2012