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THE ROYAL SOCIETY OF ISSUE 10 • AUTUMN 2004

RESOURCE THE NEWSLETTER OF ’S NATIONAL ACADEMY

Innovator of Ultra-Miniature Screen playing on Global Stage Over twenty years of research and innovation, which has led to the creation in Scotland of a world record-breaking technology – an ultra-miniature television- quality display built on a silicon chip, was recognised by the presentation of Scotland’s top award for innovation. Dr Ian Underwood, FRSE has been announced the winner of the Gannochy Trust Innovation Award of the Royal Society of Edinburgh for 2004 in recognition of the contribution he has made throughout his career to the development of highly innovative optoelectrical and display devices here in Scotland. Ian Underwood’s work has centred around two distinct technologies – Liquid Crystal on Silicon (LCoS) from the mid 1980s until the late 1990s and, since then, Light Emitting Polymer on Silicon (LEPoS). LEPoS actually emits light and does not require sunlight or a lamp to illuminate it. In 1999, Dr Underwood co-founded MicroEmissive Displays (MED) Ltd. with former RSE Enterprise , Dr Jeff Wright. MED designs and produces ultra-miniature television-quality screens based on light emitting polymers (LEP) for use in consumer electronic products such as digital still cameras, digital video cameras and personal viewers for mobile devices.

Image reproduced courtesy of Gateshead Council Sue Black joins Talk Science Royal Medals awarded Engineering & the Creative team Arts Gannochy Award

longer battery life. MED’s technology Royal Society of Edinburgh, which also can also produce a highly magnified carries a cheque for fifty thousand viewable virtual image in space, as is pounds and a specially-commissioned the case in electronic viewfinders of the gold medal, was bestowed upon Dr type found in camcorders or digital Underwood by the President of the cameras and in wearable or headset Royal Society of Edinburgh (RSE), Lord displays. There is also potential for this Sutherland of Houndwood, at a advanced technology to be a market prestigious awards ceremony held at enabler for hands-free and wearable The Royal Museum of Scotland on 1 headset displays that will allow users October 2004. Following an open hands-free access to information, competition run by The Royal Society of infotainment and entertainment on the Edinburgh, the Winner was selected by move, probably in conjunction with a a distinguished judging panel, Chaired mobile phone or other wireless devices. by Lord Ross, and including: Sir Bruce Personal wearable displays are likely to Pattullo, Professor Andy Walker, Dr Ian have application in fields including Sword and Dr Russell Leather. Dr Ian Underwood during the award medical, professional, security and As part of his prize, Dr Underwood will ceremony. Photo by Gary Doak. industrial environments. give a public lecture at the Society on 7 MED’s screens typically use at least 70 The coveted title of Winner of The March 2005. See page 11 for full per cent less power than commonly Gannochy Innovation Award of The details. used LCD microdisplay modules, and it is anticipated that this development will lead to smaller, lighter cameras with

The Royal Society of Edinburgh (RSE) Scottish Charities Bill is Scotland’s National Academy of Science & Letters. It is an independent Earlier in the year, the Scottish Executive issued a new draft Charities and Trustee body with charitable status. The Investment Bill. Many Scottish Charities, including the RSE, commented on it. This Bill Society organises conferences and implements many of the recommendations of the ‘McFadden’ report and will bring lectures for the specialist and for the general public. It provides a forum for the statutory basis for regulation of Scottish Charities more into line with that in informed debate on issues of national England and Wales. The Bill is intended to come into effect in 2006. and international importance. Its Whilst warmly welcoming much of the Bill and its intention to improve public multidisciplinary fellowship of men confidence in charities through the activities of a strengthened office of the Charity and women of international standing provides independent, expert advice Regulator in Scotland (OSCR), the Society expressed concerns about certain aspects. A to key decision-making bodies, revised Bill has just appeared and begins to address concerns raised about: including Government and · The need for greater statutory clarity over what constitutes “public benefit”. All Parliament. Scottish Charities will need to operate for ‘public benefit’ in order to continue to The Society’s Research Awards be recognised as charities. It was not considered satisfactory for the definition of programme annually awards well over ‘public benefit’ to be largely left to the discretion of OSCR, as it will have power to £1.5 million to exceptionally talented young academics and potential remove charitable status from bodies which do not pass its ‘public benefit’ test. entrepreneurs to promote commercial · The impact which ‘dual registration’ could have on the inclination of charities exploitation of inventiveness and already registered with the Charity Commissioners for England and Wales to boost wealth-generation. continue to operate on a discretionary basis in Scotland. The new Bill helpfully The RSE is active in classrooms from provides for some exemptions, but most such charities will now also require to be the Borders to the Northern Isles, with registered with and regulated by OSCR. a successful programme of lectures and hands-on workshops for primary · The greatly increased responsibilities which Scottish charity Trustees will have and and secondary school pupils. whether this could have an inhibiting effect on recruiting Trustees. Pleasingly, the The Royal Society of Edinburgh, revised Bill has dropped the term ‘Steward’ and retains the better understood term working as part of the UK and within Trustee. a global context, is committed to the future of Scotland’s social, economic Given the significance of this Bill for the charity sector on both sides of the border, the and cultural well-being. RSE will take a particular interest in its progress through the Scottish Parliament.

2 Scottish Science Advisory Committee

New Membership

Eighteen individuals who will help to of Committee membership is Full membership of the SSAC is: shape the future of science and undertaken at regular intervals in order Professor Wilson Sibbett, University of technology in Scotland have been to promote a high level of new and St Andrews - Chair. appointed (or re-appointed) as innovative thinking and to ensure that members of the Scottish Science the make-up of the Committee remains Professor Steven Beaumont - Institute Advisory Committee (SSAC), by the well in tune with its evolving of System Level Integration Royal Society of Edinburgh. programme. Professor Geoffrey Boulton - University The SSAC is an independent The broadly based membership of the of Edinburgh Committee set-up in 2002, under the Committee was chosen by the Council Professor Muffy Calder - University of auspices of the RSE to provide of the RSE from over seventy high Glasgow independent advice to Scottish quality applications, received in Executive Ministers on scientific issues response to public advertisements and Professor Sir Kenneth Calman - of strategic importance. widespread consultation. The University of Durham membership encompasses a spectrum Under the continuing Chairmanship of Professor John Coggins - University of of expertise in science, engineering and the eminent physicist, Professor Wilson Glasgow technology, business, education and Sibbett, CBE, FRS, FRSE, the new public engagement. Experts in their Professor Julie Fitzpatrick - The Committee met for the first time on respective fields, the members who Moredun Group August 25th in Our Dynamic Earth. have been invited to take up these Professor Peter Grant - University of Of the 17 other members, 11 are new prestigious positions were selected on Edinburgh appointments, with 6 members of the individual merit. The members will serve Committee being re-appointed for a on the Committee for up to two years. Professor Peter Morgan - Rowett second term. This scheduled refreshing Research Institute Dr Stuart Monro - Our Dynamic Earth Professor Richard Morris - Science & Scotland Dr John Nicholls - Photonic Materials Dr Barbara Spruce - University of In its first term, following wide-ranging consultation and meetings with stakeholders Dundee throughout Scotland, the SSAC published Science Matters: Making the Right Professor Stuart Reid - University of Connections for Scotland (January 2004), one of the most comprehensive overviews of Glasgow and University of Strathclyde the science-base in Scotland to date. In November 2003 its report: Why Science Education Matters, addressed key issues on the subject of supporting and improving Professor Jonathan Seckl - University of science education in Scottish Schools. The Committee will now seek to consolidate its Edinburgh work, providing advice and recommendations to the Executive on the strategic Professor Joyce Tait - University of priorities for the science base in Scotland, including prioritisation on expenditure. Edinburgh The Scottish Science Advisory Committee has recently published two further reports. Professor Chris van der Kuyl - VIS The position paper, Knowledge Transfer: Science to Scottish Business is intended to entertainment Ltd contribute to the creation of a clearer vision for an overall shared agenda for knowledge transfer from the science base in Scotland. Investing in Scientific Talent Graham Wren - AEA Technology plc makes a number of recommendations which will ensure that Scotland is well positioned to attract, retain and develop the very best scientists and engineers, and can continue to compete on a global scale. Both reports are available on the SSAC’s web site - www.scottishscience.org.uk

3 Royal Medallists Royal Gold Medals for outstanding achievement The achievements of three individuals whose work has brought about public benefits on a global scale have received Royal recognition. With the specific approval of Her Majesty the Queen, Royal Medals were presented by RSE President, Lord Sutherland of Houndwood to: Professor Sir Philip Cohen, FRS, FRSE; Professor Sir Neil MacCormick, FRSE, FBA, QC; and Professor Robin Milner, FRS, FRSE at a ceremony on Thursday 2 September 2004. The Medallists were selected in recognition of intellectual endeavour which has had a profound influence on people’s lives, world- PROFESSOR SIR NEIL wide. Designed and produced in Scotland and encompassing all intellectual MacCORMICK disciplines, up to three prestigious gold medals are awarded through the RSE each year. Neil MacCormick graduated from Glasgow University in 1963 with a First PROFESSOR SIR PHILIP COHEN Class Honours Degree in Philosophy and English Literature. From there he Research Council Protein went to Balliol College Oxford, where Phosphorylation Unit and the Wellcome he took a first in the Jurisprudence BA. Trust Biocentre, and Director of After a lectureship in Jurisprudence at Research at the School of Life Sciences, at Queen’s College, Dundee, he University of Dundee. returned to become a Fellow of Balliol At the University of Dundee, Sir Philip College, Oxford in 1967 before Cohen has played a major part in the becoming Regius Professor of Public remarkable recent development of Life Law and the Law of Nature and Nations Sciences at the University. His in the University of Edinburgh in 1972. enthusiasm, energy and influence have Sir Neil is one of the world’s leading been crucial in the recruitment of many philosophers of law. His central contribution to the scholarship of the Sir Philip’s discoveries in the role of leading life scientists to Dundee and the establishment of the new Wellcome philosophy of law has been the concept protein phosphorylation and its of law as “institutional fact”. Sir Neil deregulation in major diseases, Trust Building and the associated Biocentre. His efforts have had a has published five major books and particularly diabetes, have led to the numerous essays, notably on the legal development of a new scientific significant effect on the economy of Dundee, both in terms of direct theory of the Scottish Enlightenment; investigation and also to the legal reasoning as a branch of practical development of new therapeutic drugs. employment at the Biocentre and in the establishment of industrial spin-offs. In reason; the theory of sovereignty in the Philip Cohen was born in Middlesex in context of the European Union, and on 1945. His first degree was from the recognition of these contributions, Sir Philip was awarded the City of social democracy, liberalism and University of London. He attained his nationalism. doctorate in Biochemistry in 1969. Sir Discovery Rosebowl by Dundee District Philip went to the USA to work with Council. He is leading the construction A member of the Convention that Edmond Fischer and returned to the UK of the Centre for Interdisciplinary drafted the proposed Constitutional in 1971 to a lectureship in Biochemistry Research, a new research building for Treaty for the European Union, he has at the University of Dundee, becoming the School of Life Sciences due to open had an opportunity to bring together Reader in 1978 and receiving a in 2005. Sir Philip has made, and theory and practice in an unusual way. Personal Chair in 1981. Sir Philip is a continues to make, a major Sir Neil has a worldwide reputation and Royal Society of London Research contribution to the Life Sciences in has received many academic and other Professor, Director of the Medical Scotland. honours, including most recently the rank of honorary QC, and a knighthood The Royal Medals for services to scholarship in law. His The distinguished designer and engraver Malcolm Appleby of Grandtully near boundless personal generosity has won Aberfeldy has designed and created the Royal Medals. Mr Appleby’s work has been him a host of friends and admirers exhibited in many of the world’s most prestigious museums and galleries. His everywhere, but he has never lost sight commissions include engraving work on an orb for His Royal Highness The Prince of of, or touch with, Scotland in either Wales’ coronet, and pieces for The Royal Armouries, The Victoria & Albert Museum, academic or political terms. He is one of and National Museums of Scotland. As the Royal Medals recognise outstanding the most distinguished Scots of his achievement in all intellectual fields, it was decided to unify them by commissioning generation. one design for all three medals.

4 PROFESSOR ROBIN MILNER

Ferranti in London, looking after the Communicating Systems (CCS) was one program library of a small decimal of the first to demonstrate the power of computer called Sirius. In 1963 he took a small formalism tuned to a particular up a lectureship in mathematics and area, in contrast to a large at The City University mathematically unwieldy programming where he became interested in artificial language. His next major contribution intelligence, the semantics of programs was pi-calculus, a language which has and mathematical logic. In 1968 been extremely influential in the Professor Milner moved to Swansea scientific study of mobile computation University, to Stanford University three and has also found numerous years later and in 1973 returned to a applications e.g. in languages for the lectureship at the University of worldwide web and for computer Edinburgh, obtaining a Personal Chair security protocols. He is the fourth most Robin Milner was born in 1934 into a in 1984. In 1995 he took up the first cited author in computing science military family. In 1947 he won a established Chair at Cambridge. according to the NEC citation index. scholarship to Eton College and after Robin Milner is one of the world’s His first major contribution to computer military service in the Royal Engineers leading computer scientists, developing science was to invent the notion of a went to King’s College, Cambridge in and applying mathematical logic. His proof assistant whereby one could give 1954. After graduating with Honours contributions to computer science have the computer the structure of the proof after two years he became a been enormous. via so-called tactics, and have it carry mathematics teacher at Marylebone out the details. His Calculus of Images by Gary Doak. Grammar School. In 1960 he moved to Bicentenary Medals RSE AWARDS BICENTENARY MEDALS FOR DISTINGUISHED SERVICE The outstanding service to the Society The Bicentenary Medal was first roles in recent years as the RSE has of Professor John Beck, Professor John awarded by Her Majesty The Queen positioned itself to be of greater Laver and The Rt Hon Lord Ross was when she visited the Society in 1983 to benefit to the wider community in post- recognised in Dundee during the celebrate the bicentenary of the Royal devolution Scotland. All are most Summer when each was awarded the Charter being granted. worthy recipients of the Society’s RSE’s Bicentenary Medal. This Lord Sutherland said: Bicentenary Medal. It is fitting that this prestigious award for distinguished occasion was held in the alumnae “One of the RSE’s roles as a National service was presented by the President, atmosphere of The University of Academy is that of recognising Lord Sutherland of Houndwood, during Dundee where two and a half thousand excellence. On July 2 we did just that in a reception held at The University of Graduates celebrated reaching that seeking to show our appreciation to Dundee. Nearly 150 RSE and great milestone in their lives. My sincere three individuals who have excelled in guests were present at the Summer thanks to Sir Alan Langlands and all his their own disciplines and made an Reception held during the University of staff for their very fine arrangements enormous contribution to the life and Dundee’s graduation celebrations. This and warm hospitality.“ the development of the Society. is an event which many Fellows have Professor John Beck, Professor John University of Dundee, Principal and said they very much enjoyed. Laver and Lord Ross have played key Vice-Chancellor, Sir Alan Langlands, FRSE said: “The University of Dundee is honoured that The Royal Society of Edinburgh chose to hold its Summer Reception during our graduation celebrations. This year the University was graduating more than 2,500 students – its largest ever graduation, reflecting the increasing success of the University in attracting students from all over the world.”

Left to Right : Lord Sutherland, Professor Beck, Professor Laver, Lord Ross, Sir Alan Langlands. 5 Image courtesy of Dundee Courier. International

Science Scotland Brain Science This is a new publication which aims to enhance the reputation of Scottish science The Scottish Executive has organised a internationally. The publication is distributed to a wide international readership of season of events in the Netherlands this scientists, science managers, policy makers and government staff around the world, autumn. The RSE was invited to using the networks of the FCO science attaches, British Council science staff, Scottish organise a one-day meeting similar to Development International field offices and other networks. The project is being run the event held during the Scotland in by the RSE, with support from the Scottish Executive, SDI and the British Council. As Sweden season in 2002. well as the paper edition, Science Scotland has a website (www.sciencescotland.org) The theme of this meeting was brain and readers may register to receive an ezine. science and was held on 1 October. The A CD has been made of the first two issues. The third issue will be published in event was organised with the Royal December 2004. Netherlands Academy for Arts and Sciences and was held at the Academy’s 17th century headquarters in the centre Overseas Visitors of Amsterdam. This top-level scientific meeting brought together scientists from Scotland and the Netherlands to stimulate discussion and identify possible research collaboration in the future. The preceding evening, Professor Richard Morris FRS, FRSE gave a well attended public lecture on How Brain Science could transform our lives in the 21st Century. For further information or for a copy of the event report, please contact Michael White, International Activities Manager, [email protected]. European Union NATIONAL NATURAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION OF CHINA MARIE CURIE INFORMATION As part of a European tour, a delegation from the National Natural Science Foundation DAY - FRIDAY 26 NOVEMBER of China, led by Professor Zhu Zuoyan, Vice-President, visited RSE in September to meet Professor Stephen Blackmore FRSE and RSE staff. While in Scotland, the group In partnership with the UK Research also visited the universities of Aberdeen and Edinburgh. The NNFSC is keen to develop Office (UKRO), the UK National Contact more extensive links with Scotland. The First Minister visited China in October, and the Point for Marie Curie Actions, the RSE Deputy First Minister will go early in the new year. China’s science base is developing will host an information day on 26 fast both in scale and quality, and 2005 has also been designated the “Year of UK November. The day will focus on the Science in China”. In this context, opportunities for Sino Scottish scientific new Human Resources and Mobility collaboration would seem to be opening up at a rapid rate. Work Programme, providing an outline of the key changes as well as lessons POLISH ACADEMY OF SCIENCES learned from the first round of deadlines. The day will be divided into Under the auspices of the RSE bilateral agreement with the Polish Academy of 2 separate sessions (Individual schemes Sciences, Professor Józef Niznik made his first visit to Scotland to speak at a conference - morning and Host Schemes - on EU Enlargement organised by Professor George Blazyca of the University of Paisley. afternoon). Each session will provide a Speakers included representatives from all the new Member States, as well as brief outline of the Marie Curie Actions, members of the Scottish academic, cultural, political and business sectors. the benefits of the fellowships,

6 guidance on preparing proposals and International Exchange Programme feedback from the first calls. For further The International Exchange Programme provides opportunities for researchers from information, please contact UKRO, Scotland to travel on a short visit of up to 4 weeks to further research collaboration, email: [email protected]. and also for Scottish researchers to invite foreign colleagues to visit Scotland. Follow RSE EUROPEAN POLICY up trips may be possible depending on the outcomes of the first visit made. FORUM There are three bilateral programmes; with the Chinese Academy of Sciences (to A small discussion dinner was held on member institutes), the Polish Academy of Sciences and the National Science Council the eve of a conference, “Scotland’s of Taiwan, as well as an Open programme to allow travel to other destinations, or to Role in the Enlarged Europe” to allow receive visiting researchers, not covered by the bilateral agreements. conference speakers and other invited Completed applications (including supporting documentation) must be submitted guests to discuss how the RSE may take before the appropriate closing dates each year (28 February, 31 May, 31 August and forward the idea of a European Policy 30 November). You should allow at least 2 months after the closing date before travel. Forum. It is hoped that some of the International Exchange Programmes are open to all post-doctoral researchers in ideas will be followed up to become Scotland and are not restricted to Fellows. topics for future events. For further information, please contact Michael Further details on eligibility and application forms can be found on the Society’s White, International Activities Manager. website: www.royalsoced.org.uk. CROSSROADS FOR IDEAS - Successful applicants who have returned from visits under the Exchange Programme include: BIOINFORMATICS WORKSHOP Dr Wieland Fricke, University of Paisley, returned to the Department of Plant Biochemistry, Lund University, Sweden in May following up a previous visit made at the To welcome people from the Eastern end of last year. This visit continued experimental work from the first visit and enabled European Accession States, which Dr Fricke to learn some new research techniques. The results will be written up and joined the European Union on 1 May published in due course. In the future, the two research groups may apply for a larger 2004, a series of UK-wide events has research grant from external bodies. been organised to cover a range of subjects. The Scottish element was a Dr Jens Timmermann, , visited the Department of biosciences workshop, held at Ballathie Philosophy and Institute of Foreign Philosophy, Beijing University, China under the House Hotel, near Perth on 16 – 18 Open Programme. The visit included many fruitful discussions of Kantian moral June 2004. The objective of the universalism, and Dr Timmermann learnt much about the state of Kantian moral workshop was to identify areas where philosophy in China today. He encouraged his host, Professor Xu Xiangdong, a young there was potential mutual benefit in moral philosopher of international standing, to visit St Andrews in due course. collaboration. Eight young Professor Denis Hall, Heriot-Watt University, visited the Shanghai Institute of Optics postdoctoral scientists from the UK met and Fine Mechanics, China under the Bilateral Programme. Professor Hall took part in with eight from the Accession States informal scientific discussions while visiting different laboratories within the Institute (one from each). Each participant made and gave seminars on research in the Lasers and Photonics Applications Group at a presentation about the research Heriot-Watt University. Detailed discussions on research collaboration led to the going on in their own research area at signing of a Draft Research Agreement between the two institutions. More recent their home institution and additional outcomes include a previous research assistant from Professor Hall’s group returning inputs were made by established senior to China to take up a post at the Institute and Heriot-Watt University will receive two UK researchers. In addition to the visitors from the Institute in the autumn. workshop sessions, there were three half-days of professional visits to Dr Martin Sommerkorn, of the Macaulay Institute hosted a visit by Professor Edward Dundee, Edinburgh and Glasgow to Radstetter, of the Ecosystems Centre, Massachusetts earlier this year. During the visit meet with relevant researchers and visit they worked on the development of a model for C and N allocation in tundra research facilities. The participants also ecosystems based on data collected during a previous experiment in northern Alaska. enjoyed a social programme, which They plan to adapt the model to lower latitude highly organic soils so that the model included a Ministerial dinner at can also be applied to Dr Sommerkorn’s ongoing projects in the context of woodland Edinburgh Castle and a visit to the regeneration in Scottish heathlands. Royal Botanic Garden, Edinburgh. This event was organised by the Scottish Executive, British Council and RSE.

7 Event Reports The Coming Century : 10 Trends to Back Frances Cairncross, Rector, Exeter College, Oxford

of the world, particularly in Asia and Shaping Ourselves: Society now has Oceania. The population in the Muslim available a number of ‘lifestyle’ areas of the world was also increasing medications, for example, Ritalin to but religious differences, for example in reduce behavioural problems in Europe, might create tensions. This children and Viagra to extend sexual was less of a problem in the USA, which activity in men, with the latter giving in any case is maintaining population rise to the prospect of ‘grandfather’ numbers. fatherhood. Cosmetic surgery, together Educated at Oxford and Brown with advances in DNA technology, Universities, Frances Cairncross held a Resource Shortage: Energy offered the possibility of ‘Designer number of posts in journalism, consumption, whether of People’. including that of Principal Economic oil, natural gas or coal products, is Columnist on The Guardian, before rising steadily in many countries and Religion: In a number of countries joining The Economist. She chairs the particularly so in the United States. On there has recently been a very Economic and Social Science Research the other hand, that derived from significant increase in church Council and is a regular presenter of nuclear sources, hydropower and other membership and attendance, in the BBC Radio 4 Analysis programme. renewables, is much more stable. particular in the United States, where Frances raised the question of the the rise in the number of evangelical In a dynamic and enthralling lecture, world oil supply, the reserves of which and born-again Christians has been Frances highlighted the issues facing all are falling steadily, but are sufficient to dramatic. In the Muslim world there of us in the coming century. last for many decades. Most of the has been a huge increase in Population Growth/Reduction: The reserves are to be found in the Middle fundamentalism. fertility rate in most Western countries East and continuing difficulties over Smaller Government: Frances argued is below that required for maintenance supply and pricing are likely. Rising that government is a service industry of current numbers, with the United demands for water are another which has not, but ought to have been, States being an exception due to its problem, with some 70% of the use improved by technology. The growing high Hispanic population. China, worldwide being for agricultural population of the elderly was, however, Korea, Iran, Turkey and Brazil were irrigation. a problem for government in all among the countries with significant Price Stability: Frances made the point developed countries, with tax rise population growth. Complicating that high inflation was not a natural implications and constraints on other factors included the presence or state of affairs, with historically the government activities. absence of significant disease, for most significant examples of it example in Botswana the population is New Superpower: Frances predicted occurring in the second half of the 16th decreasing by 0.7% per year. In the that the USA, with 30% of global GDP, and 20th centuries, when in both absence of AIDS, however, the growth 75% of the world’s Nobel Laureates, instances incidentally the throne was would have been some 2% per year. the world’s wealthiest universities and a occupied by a Queen Elizabeth. rising, not falling population would Ageing: Life expectancy has increased Currently we are in a price-stable period remain powerful within the foreseeable markedly since 1970, in some countries with commodity prices falling. The future. The predictions were, however, by up to twenty years. The current prices of goods were also falling due to that the economies of China and India century may be recognised as the increased productivity while service would increase to match or overtake ‘Centenarians Century’. The costs remained relatively flat. that of the USA over the next 50 years. consequent implications for pension Technological Change: Frances saw funds are enormous, the only remedies Finally, Frances identified five major this as one of the greatest contributors being that people work longer or pay worries: the growth of terrorism; the to social change and highlighted, for higher taxes or both. Frances predicted occurrence of new diseases, for example, the impact of the pill, the a growing tension between young and example SARS; the possibility of motor car and the cell phone and old in this respect. deflation; the problem of satellite technology in particular. She environmental deterioration; and the Immigration: This offered possibilities raised the issue of world food failure to reduce the poverty gap. as a solution, there being significant requirements and whether a second population growth in the poorer parts agricultural revolution based on transgenic crops would come about.

8 Reproductive Health Speakers and Subjects An International Conference organised by the From Population Control to Reproductive Health Issues for the Royal Society of Edinburgh in association with Developed World. the Caledonian Research Foundation. Professor Anna Glasier. Targets for New Contraceptives. 14 and 15 October 2004. Professor David T Baird CBE FRSE

A Systems Approach to Drug Reproductive issues have major health and social consequences worldwide. This two- Discovery in Reproductive Health day conference, which attracted some of the leading international figures in the field, Professor Steve Smith focused on the key areas of contraception, fertility and assisted conception, cancer, sexual behaviour and HIV/AIDS. The Uterus as a Contraceptive Target: Current Methods and Key messages Mechanisms. · Reproductive health is of the utmost · Infertility is a growing problem Professor Hilary OD Critchley importance at a global, national and · Women must be encouraged not to Human Infertility – Prevalence, individual level delay childbirth because fertility Prevention and Management. · There is real need for new diminishes throughout their 20s then Professor Allan Templeton contraceptive methods that are easier decreases dramatically from the age to use, more effective and safer than of 35 Gamete Quality. existing methods Dr Kate Hardy · Current assisted reproductive · There are a number of promising treatments are expensive, access to Limits of Assisted Conception. avenues for developing new them is poor and cannot overcome Professor John Collins contraceptives but these will stall the decline in fertility with age without funding, determination and Concerns about Assisted Conception. · By preventing unplanned pregnancy political will Professor Andre Van Steirteghem in HIV-infected women, contraception · Any new method will have to have is an important way of stopping Hormones and Cancer. additional health benefits also such transmission of the virus from mother Professor Valerie Beral as protection from reproductive to infant Profiling Hormones, Receptors and cancers or HIV · Scientists are hopeful that treatments Cofactors in Reproductive Tissues: · Reproductive cancers (including such as microbicidal gels to help Physiology, Pharmacology and cervical, breast, ovarian testicular and reduce the risk of HIV transmission Dysregulation. prostate cancers) are a serious cause will soon be available Dr Patricia L Morris of illness and death in men and · Vaccines to protect against the virus women and are a major public health Immunisation against Cervical associated with cervical cancer (HPV) problem worldwide also in the Cancer. and genital warts are at an exciting developed world Dr Charles JN Lacey FRCP stage of development · Understanding the reproductive Fetal Development and the · Although men and women are system and how reproductive cancers Commonest Disorders of Male having sex earlier and with more occur is key to finding new methods Reproductive Health. people, the abortion rate has of prevention Professor Richard Sharpe remained relatively stable · However spectacular the scientific Sexual behaviour in 2004. advances, much of reproductive Professor Kaye Wellings health depends on human behaviour Vaginal Microbicides to Prevent HIV- and on the political will and 1 Transmission. economic capacity to deliver services Dr Robin Shattock

A full report of the conference will be Contraception in an Era of HIV. published shortly. This will appear on Dr Ward Cates the RSE website, or can be obtained from the events team, [email protected] 9 [email protected] TICKETS ARE REQUIRED FOR ALL RSE EVENTS. To book tickets online, visit FORTHCOMING EVENTS www.royalsoced.org.uk or contact [email protected] for further information. DECEMBER 2004 JANUARY 2005 Monday 6 December at 5.30pm Monday 17 January at 6.00pm ** LECTURE DISCUSSION FORUM The Challenge of the Ageing Skeleton … but Cuckoos don’t nest, do Professor David Hamblen, Emeritus Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of they? Neurosurgery for Mental Glasgow, Professor Hamish Simpson, Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Disorder in the 21st Century Edinburgh, Professor Joe McGeough FRSE, Regius Professor of Engineering, University Professor Keith Matthews, Head of of Edinburgh Psychiatry & Behavioural Sciences, People are living longer but their skeletons are finding it difficult to cope with the signs University of Dundee of ageing. With age, osteoporosis and arthritis set in, falls occur, hips fracture, wrists Direct surgical modification of brain are broken, the back aches. Our hospitals, sheltered houses, and nursing homes are function has been explored as a potential having to deal daily with these crises in health care and well-being of the elderly and treatment for a range of neurological urgently need solutions. Clinicians will describe some of these questions raised in and, more controversially, psychiatric treating elderly patients, and engineers will describe their approach in looking for the disorders. Recent advances in clinical answers. neuroscience have supported a revival of interest in such therapeutic approaches. Wednesday 8 December at 6.00pm Given its infamous history, how can DISCUSSION FORUM ‘psychosurgery’ proceed in the 21st HIV and AIDS in Scotland: Beyond the 1980s century? Dr Gordon Scott, Department of Genito-Urinary Medicine, Royal Infirmary, Edinburgh, Mr Neil Gerrard MP, Chair, All Parliamentary Friday 21 January at 6.00pm Group on AIDS LECTURE Having once been dubbed the ‘AIDS Capital of Europe’ much has been achieved in terms In association with the Edinburgh of infection control and patient care in Lectures Partnership Edinburgh, and Scotland generally. However, we are inevitably seeing the international dimensions of this epidemic and the knock on effects that this is having on many countries as well as our own. What is the future of this epidemic and what can be done to control it? The Health and Psyche of the Scottish Nation Professor Roland Jung, Chief Scientist, Scottish Executive and Dr James Robson, National Team Medical Co-ordinator, Scottish THE EVENTS PROGRAMME Sport and exercise play an ever-increasing role in the health of both the individual and the population at large, whether actively participating or simply observing the achievements of others. So, how has obesity become the most important nutritional problem of the new millennium? What impact does obesity have on health? How can we prevent this The RSE organises around 55 events each year ranging from conferences to lectures rising tide of obesity which if not and discussion forums. The Society’s independence and the breadth of its Fellowship countered could reverse the increased combine to enable us to provide these important neutral forums and engage in well longevity achieved in the last three informed debates on topics concerning the well-being of Scotland. Whether it is decades by improvements in health? science, the arts, business, law, health or fitness, we want to offer something for Seats may be reserved in advance on everyone. payment of £3.00 per ticket via the Usher Hall Box Office, Lothian Road, Edinburgh, The RSE produces two pocket-sized Events Diaries each year in the spring and autumn. EH1 2EA. (Monday - Saturday 10.00am - If you would like to receive these, please send your contact details to the Events 5.30pm ). Or Tel. 0131 228 1155 Department, [email protected] (Monday - Friday 10.00am - 8.00pm )

10 FEBRUARY 2005 MARCH 2005

Monday 7 February at 5.30pm Monday 7 March at 5.30pm **LECTURE **GANNOCHY TRUST INNOVATION Science In Focus AWARD PRIZE LECTURE This lecture will focus on an important Dr Ian Underwood FRSE, Director of science issue. As we want to make it as Strategic Marketing, MicroEmissive topical as possible, we will not be Displays Ltd releasing the speakers’ details until just Over twenty years of research and before the event. For updates and further innovation, which have led to the information, please visit our website: creation in Scotland of a world record- www.royalsoced.org.uk or join our e-mail breaking technology, were recognised in list by contacting the Events Department October 2004 when Dr Underwood was ([email protected]). named winner of the Gannochy Trust Innovation Award of the Royal Society of Edinburgh. The coveted title went to Dr Underwood in recognition of the Wednesday 23 February - Full Day contribution he has made throughout CONFERENCE his career to the development of ground- Europe’s Hidden Coral Worlds breaking optical and display devices here While the habitats created by cold-water coral species have been known since Linnaean in Scotland. The ultra-miniature times, it is only recently that the process underlying their formation and growth have television quality displays made by been investigated. The EU projects ACES, ECOMOUND and GEOMOUND have brought MicroEmissive Displays (MED) Ltd., the together marine scientists from across Europe at a time when human exploitation of the Edinburgh-based firm he co-founded, European continental margin is increasing. These interdisciplinary studies are are likely to improve many everyday producing a better understanding of these environments that will help in the future household display devices as well as conservation of long-lived and diverse ecosystems. A Conference Fee will apply. being a market enabler for hands-free and wearable headset displays. This lecture will offer an update on Dr Underwood’s exciting technology.

Friday 11 March at 5.30pm LECTURE in association with The Royal Academy of Engineering. Engineering and the Creative Arts - A New Frontier? Dr Robert Hawley CBE FREng FRSE, Friday 25 February at 5.30pm Chairman, Taylor Woodrow plc ECRR PETER WILSON LECTURE Is there a “Two Cultures” gap between Joint lecture in association with the Edinburgh Centre for Rural Research (ECRR) and the engineering and the creative arts? Do Institute of Biology (IOB) engineers understand the contribution they make to the arts and do those in the To Clone or Not to Clone? arts understand the contribution made Professor Ian Wilmut OBE FRS FRSE, Principal Investigator, BBSRC, Roslin Institute by engineering? The so-called creative industries are the critical battlegrounds Biological research has revolutionised Present methods of nuclear transfer are for the wealth-creating society. agriculture and medicine and still has very inefficient with a success rate of only Engineering has a key role to play and more to offer. The production of 0-5%. Improvements will depend upon there is much to be gained from offspring by transfer of the nucleus understanding the molecular strengthening the communication bridge from a somatic cell of an adult to an mechanisms involved and developing between the two disciplines. This Lecture enucleated secondary oocyte created intervention techniques. During this briefly explores the relationship between significant new opportunities. Somatic research period, each society should seek engineering and some areas of the arts, cell cloning helped to show that to make informed judgements as to in the hope that it will start off a process mammalian development is far more which applications are acceptable. leading to a greater mutual plastic than had been imagined. understanding between the two disciplines. Professor Wilmut will also give a public lecture in Pitlochry on December 9 2004, Part of the British Association National following the RSE Young People’s Christmas Lecture. See page 13 for details. Science Week 2005 (11-20 March) ** These Lectures form part of an RSE Ordinary Meeting and shall be preceded by some Society Business, such as new Fellows being admitted, etc. 11 Free, fully organised educational activities for young Young People people throughout Scotland Arbroath Roadshow Talk Science We are pleased to announce that four new lecturers have joined the Young Peoples’ speakers list. Professor Sue Black OBE, Dr Sabrina Malpede (an RSE/ Scottish Enterprise Research Fellow), Dr Val Mann (an RSE/ Lloyds TSB Research Fellow) and Alice Walker of the British Geological Survey will be talking about topics as diverse as jet engines, seismology and forensic anthropology, and even promise to reveal the similarities between your granny and a spaceman! If you or your colleagues have a lively talk or workshop that would be of interest to school children, or for Image Courtesy of Arbroath Herald further information, please contact the The RSE Young Peoples Programme visited Arbroath in force on 26 – 28 October for education team by e-mailing an RSE Roadshow. Professor Sue Black OBE gave a talk to S2 students at Arbroath [email protected]. Academy asking Who am I? , an investigation of what makes each person an This Autumn talks are taking place individual. In the evening Professor Black wowed local residents in a public talk, throughout Scotland. Designed to Forensic Anthropology – the bare bones science, in which she explained what forensic enthuse school pupils about science, anthropology is and how it impacts on society using examples from home and abroad. engineering, technology and maths, this year Talk Science will be covering Postgraduate students from Edinburgh University helped local primary students topics from genetics to solar sails. answer the question Do I Eat DNA? in a workshop where children were given the Highlights so far have included: chance to extract DNA from Strawberries and Kiwi Fruit. Meanwhile, a team from Dundee University encouraged primary students’ engineering, IT and team skills with a Chemistry, Colour and Magic by Dr Lego Robot Challenge workshop where children built their own robot and competed Christine Davidson and Ms Allison on a robot assault course. Drummond at Wellington School, Ayr. Lasing Down the Internet by Professor Thomas Krauss at Bell Baxter High School, Cupar, Fife. Discussion Forum: Energy Crisis – what are the alternatives? Throwing Light on the Human Genome In June our annual Discussion Forum visited Dumfries. S5 and S6 students from by Professor Wendy Bickmore at throughout the county gathered at Crichton Campus to discuss how Scotland should Oldmachar Academy, Dyce Academy proceed to ensure that in 2020 we fulfil the government target of supplying 40% of and Hazlehead Academy as part of electricity from renewable resources. Techfest 2004. Setting Sail for Orbit by Professor Colin Experts from various sectors of the energy industry, including the traditional fuels, McInnes at Largs Academy, North renewable energy and energy efficiency introduced the issues and sparked some Ayrshire. thoughtful discussions on Scotland’s future energy needs. A full-colour report of ’s discussions is now available and can be obtained from the Education Team. Soap Bubbles and Membranes by Dr ([email protected]) Ciaran Ewins at Pitlochry High School, Perth and Kinross. Mathematics Matters by Dr Bruce Davies at Selkirk High School Captain Cook and the Cosmic Yardstick by Dr Martin Hendry at Ardnumurchan Community School, Strontian. From Black Holes to Big Bangs by Professor Alan Heavens at Wick and Thurso High Schools. A Guided Tour of the Universe by Professor Henry Ellington at Tobermory High School, Isle of Mull.

12 Summer School Christmas Lecture Supported by City of Edinburgh, East Why Clone? Cloning in Biology and Medicine Lothian and Midlothian Councils By Ian Wilmut OBE FRS FRSE Thursday 9 December 2004 at Pitlochry Festival Theatre This year the RSE worked in partnership with Heriot-Watt University to give S5 and S6 students from the City of Edinburgh, East Lothian and Midlothian a taste of university life and the careers and courses they might Image courtesy of Roslin Institute want to take up in the future. There is much confusion when people effort by experienced laboratories, no At the week long non-residential see the words ‘clone’ and ‘cloning’. offspring have been reported from the Summer School students took part in a Cloning (also known as nuclear rhesus monkey or dog. variety of activities designed to improve transfer) involves the transfer of the and introduce core skills for university There are many limitations to this genetic information from a cell to an life such as note-taking. This was technology, but also many potential unfertilised egg, from which the complemented with Science, applications, for example, copying our genetic information has been removed. Engineering and Technology (SET) most productive farm animals, The cloning technique involves several workshops introducing a variety of producing organs for transplantation complex steps and is carried out by subjects including Actuarial Maths: or treating conditions such as spinal specialists in the laboratory. The Mortgages and Investments and Cool cord injury. cloning technique is not new. Cloning Physics: Ice Cream and Levitation. Professor Ian Wilmut of the Roslin was first used in 1952 to study early Institute, is the leader of the team that The week also included a social activity development in frogs. In 1996, ‘Dolly produced ‘Dolly the Sheep’. The present for all who took part – a ghost walk! the Sheep’ was created, the first animal objectives of the research group are to cloned from a cell taken from an adult determine the molecular mechanisms mammal. Offspring have been important for normal development of produced in several species, sheep, cow, cloned embryos and to use that Maths Masterclasses mouse, pig, goat, cat, rat, rabbit and knowledge in biology, medicine and horse. However, despite considerable In addition to the long-running Maths agriculture. Masterclasses series, a set is taking place in Aberdeen this Autumn. These As well as a free afternoon talk for schools at 2pm, Professor Wilmut will give a talk to Saturday morning masterclasses for the general public at 6pm. children in the final years of primary Tickets cost £2 (£1 concession) and are available from the Pitlochry Festival Theatre, school aim to show that maths is fun Port-Na-Craig, Pitlochry, PH16 5DR, Tel. 01796 484 626. and creative, with challenging For more information please contact the education team. [email protected]. investigations designed to develop problem-solving, intuition and analytical skills. Classes are being held on : Messages, Morse and Mathematical Code led by Ms Fiona Craw The Triangle, the Rose and the Eleven Volunteers’ Commitment to Young People’s Programme is Times Table led by Ms Gail Penny Celebrated Happy Numbers, Perfect Numbers and At a reception hosted by the President on 2 September, awards were presented to Winning Squares, presenter to be those who had made an exceptional voluntary contribution to the Young People’s confirmed activities. Dr Chris Baddeley and Dr Lyndsay Fletcher regularly contribute to our Archimedes and His Parrot led by Mrs Startup Science Masterclasses at the Universities of Glasgow and St Andrews Helen Martin respectively. Dr Hilary-Kay Young co-ordinates the masterclasses at the University of Dundee, as well as delivering two biology themed workshops. Dr Grieg Chisholm and Dr Allan Jamieson are long-term (and ever popular!) contributors to the ‘Talk Science’ school visit programme. All of our Young People’s events rely on volunteers and many activities are on Saturday mornings or require travelling throughout Scotland, both of which require real commitment. We would like to thank everyone who volunteers their time to these events.

13 Fellows’ Notice Board FELLOWS DECEASED BIRTHDAY HONOURS 2004 COFFEE MEETINGS It is with much regret that we record Knight Bachelor Coffee is served every Tuesday morning the deaths of the following Fellows : David James Wallace at 10.30am between October and March. Henry Adam Order of the British Empire Dirk Bijl Officer (OBE) Additionally, on the first Tuesday of Arthur Donald Boney Charles Peter Downes each month, a speaker introduces a John Clark Chris Haslett discussion topic. On the intervening Tuesdays, coffee is served in the Sir Alan Cook Member (MBE) Fellows’ Room at 10.30am. William Alexander Cramond Stephen Salter These are informal and friendly Francis Crick GOLF CHALLENGE occasions, open to all Fellows and, if Arthur James Ogilvie Cruickshank you are able to attend, you will be William McKane The Fellows’ golf outing this year was made most welcome. Anna MacLeod held at Dunblane New Golf Club on 16 2004-2005 Programme William Barr Martin August. Scores on the day were very 7 December 2004. How we Think. Gordon Ramsay Nicoll respectable and congratulations go to Sir Michael Atiyah Wallace Pitcher the winner of the Stewart Cup, Professor Andrew Mackenzie, who was 11 January 2005. The Ups and Downs Harold Stanley Arthur Potter taking part in his first Fellows’ outing. of Natural Populations. Adam Neil Smith In second place, losing out by only one Professor Jonathan A Sherratt David John Tedford stableford point, was Professor Colin 1 February 2005. Why Educate? Maurice Wilkins Bird. The excellent course and the fine Professor Sally A Brown Fellows are asked to contact the hospitality made for an extremely 1 March 2005. Geological Hazards. Fellowship Office, if they could be of enjoyable outing and thanks must go Mr John H Hull help in providing obituary material. again to Sandra McDougall for her invaluable help with its organisation. STAFF NEWS Next year’s outing will be on a links Andy Curran, Facilities Assistant left the course. Society in August 2004 and George Pendleton joined us as his replacement AWARDS, APPOINTMENTS AND CITATIONS in October 2004. Bob Hunter has been appointed Robert Donovan has been appointed Philip Schlesinger has been appointed to the Council for the Central to the Scottish Advisory Committee of Evening Caretaker and joined the staff Laboratory of the Research Council Ofcom, the communications regulator. on 8 November. (CCLRC). Kenneth Sorbie has been awarded the E-BULLETIN Tim Ingold has received the 2004 Society of Core Analysts 2004 Technical From January 2005, Fellows with e-mail Retzius Medal in Gold of the Swedish Achievement Award. will be able to receive a monthly Society for Anthropology and The following Fellows were recently e-bulletin from the Society. Geography, in recognition of his elected to the Royal Society of London: contributions to the development of We hope that this monthly e-bulletin Samson Abramsky, David Tollervey anthropological theory and the study of will enable Fellows to be kept more up and . human-environment relations. to date than is possible by this newsletter, which is published only 3 times a year. TRANSACTIONS: EARTH SCIENCES If you do not already receive e-mails from the Society’s office and would like VOLUME 79.2/3 (1988) - HUTTON I to do so, please contact This volume, the Proceedings of the first Hutton Symposium on the Origin of [email protected]. Granites and Related Rocks, has been out of print for many years, but is still in Fellows without e-mail will receive this demand from geologists worldwide, especially as the Proceedings of the Fifth Hutton information in printed form, should Symposium are to be published in TRSE shortly, rekindling interest in previous they wish. volumes. If any Fellows have a copy of this issue which is no longer required (perhaps acquired at the time when Fellows could receive a journal of their choice free of OFFICE CLOSED charge, but now no longer of interest), they are asked to consider returning it to the The RSE Offices will close on 23 Society. Please contact Vicki Ingpen, Journals & Archive Officer December 2004, reopening on Tuesday ([email protected]). 4 January 2005.

14 CHANGES IN GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT

At a well-attended Extraordinary members of a newly created separate so that the vote is no longer restricted Meeting of Fellows in September, Executive Board. to those able to attend the ASM, which extensive changes to the Society’s Laws This Executive Board replaces the will now be held on the first Monday in were unanimously approved, to Business Committee. It is chaired by October – not the last. It is intended introduce improved governance and the General Secretary and also includes the ASM will allow much more detailed management structures. These as voting members, the Treasurer, the consideration of the Trustees’ and changes followed extensive Convener of the RSE Scotland Office-Bearers’ reports and hence not consultation with Fellows and Foundation, the Executive Secretary followed by a public event. This format deliberation by Council, and took effect (who has been retitled as Chief was used for the ASM on 25 October from the Annual Statutory Meeting Executive) and the Director of Finance. and was much appreciated by those (ASM) on 25 October 2004. The main This Board will have substantial present. purpose of the changes is to allow delegated authority from Council and Most Trustees and Office-Bearers will greater clarity of roles between those will meet quarterly along with the other continue to serve up to 3 years but the responsible for governance and members of the senior staff terms of the General Secretary, management, and to allow more management group. Treasurer and Programme Convener delegation to those responsible for A new independent Audit Committee have been reduced from 5 to 4 years. operational delivery. will be created to replace the Treasurer’s The Society is fortunate to be allowed One of the first consequences is that Committee. by its Royal Charter to amend its the Trustee membership of Council was There will no longer be Secretaries to internal Laws after due deliberation and reduced from 25 to 12, with the 7 Meetings and their duties will be re- approval by Fellows, but without the Office-Bearers and 5 Ordinary Members allocated to the Programme Convener necessity of Parliamentary or Privy elected at the ASM, as shown below. and Fellowship Secretary. Council approval. The Curator, International Convener, The election or re-election of Council For further information about the Laws Programme Convener, Research Awards members and other Office-bearers will changes and the changes in Convener and Young People’s take place annually, normally at the governance and management, please Convener continue with largely Annual Statutory Meeting, but will be contact the Chief Executive, Dr William unchanged roles, except they will not by postal ballot of all Ordinary Fellows Duncan ([email protected]). be Trustees, and they will be elected TRUSTEES EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMBERS President General Secretary Lord Sutherland of Houndwood KT FBA Professor Andrew Miller CBE FRSE ABEL PRIZE FRSE Treasurer We reported in the spring issue that Sir Vice Presidents Mr Edward Cunningham CBE FRSE Michael Atiyah had been awarded the Professor Gavin McCrone CB FRSE Curator Abel Prize for Mathematics by the Professor John Coggins, FRSE Dr Brenda Moon, FRSE Norwegian Academy of Sciences. Professor John Mavor FRSE International Convener General Secretary Professor Rona MacKie, CBE, FRSE Sir Michael is shown here, receiving his Professor Andrew Miller CBE FRSE Research Awards Convener award from King Harald of Norway at a Treasurer Professor David Saxon, FRSE ceremony held in May this year. Mr Edward Cunningham CBE FRSE Programme Convener Fellowship Secretary Professor Ian Stevenson, FRSE Professor Colin Bird CBE FRSE Young People’s Convener Ordinary Members Professor Cheryl Tickle, FRS, FRSE Professor Ron Asher FRSE RSE Scotland Foundation Chairman Mr Ewan Brown CBE FRSE Professor Andy Walker, FRSE Professor Tariq Durrani FRSE Chief Executive Professor Rona MacKie, CBE, FRSE Dr William Duncan Dr Ian Pollock Sword CBE FRSE Director of Finance Miss Kate Ellis

15 Science Fellowships for Teachers

The Royal Society of Edinburgh receives Anne Lawson, (right) a Social Subjects funding from the Scottish Executive teacher at Tobermory High School on Transport, Enterprise and Lifelong Mull will be working with the Forestry Learning Department (SETELLD) to Commission for Scotland and her award Science Fellowships for Teachers. Fellowship has three main objectives The aim of these Fellowships is to allow - to allow her to become familiar with teachers, based in Scottish schools, the various aspects of the work of the time away from the classroom to Forestry Commission including its update and refresh their knowledge economic, research and enterprise and develop new connections likely to activities so that a case study can be be of benefit to schools. This enables built up for a number of curriculum the teachers to bring an added areas. dimension to the course work they - To co-operate with the education officers and the various departments of the teach in the hope of stimulating their Forestry Commission in developing it as a study resource for Higher and Advanced pupils in their chosen subject. It is also Higher geography. hoped that the new material produced through this Fellowship scheme will - To understand the nature of the business of a local employer and to maintain links enhance the education system with it. throughout Scotland and not simply individual schools. Iain McGregor, (right) a Biology teacher At a Science in Parliament event held on at Monifieth High School in Angus will 10 November, the three 2004 Teaching hold his Fellowship placement with Fellows received their awards from Jim Scottish Natural Heritage. Wallace MSP, Deputy First Minister. He will investigate ways in which a specific location (Tentsmuir Nature Reserve) may be utilised to provide pupils with practical investigative skills within an ecosystem. This work will relate to field study trips for Standard Grade pupils along with activities and senior field trips for Higher grade Biology and Geography pupils. It is also hoped that ideas will be developed for Advanced Higher practical investigations and that all schools within the Angus area will benefit from Iain’s experience.

Karen McNish, (left with Jim Wallace) a teacher of Biology, Chemistry and General Science at George Heriot’s School, Edinburgh will be working with the Moredun Research Institute and the Scottish Institute of Biotechnology Education (SIBE) which is an offshoot of Edinburgh University and was set up to promote science education. Karen plans to spend time at the Moredun Research Institute upgrading her skills and knowledge of the latest laboratory techniques and looking at current research topics in the area of Biotechnology. With SIBE, Karen will develop teaching and discussion materials for schools. Biotechnology is becoming more important in the secondary curriculum and in employment opportunities in Scotland. Karen hopes to stimulate her pupils to choose Images by John Rae Photography science by making it exciting and relevant to the opportunities available to them 01324 556030 beyond school. COPY DATE ADDRESS INFORMATION The copy date for the next issue is 22-26 GEORGE STREET website: www.royalsoced.org.uk 31 January 2005. Please send copy to EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND www.rsescotlandfoundation.org.uk Jennifer Cameron at the Society. EH2 2PQ e-mail: [email protected] [email protected] Any opinions expressed in this newsletter are not necessarily those of Tel: 0131 240 5000 ReSourcE : ISSN No 1473-7841 all RSE Fellows Fax: 0131 240 5024 replaces RSE News Research, Enterprise & Excellence

Granting research awards, fellowships and studentships is one of the most Our Research Awards scheme important and most pleasant functions of the Society. It is important recognises, celebrates and because it is here we are investing explicitly in the future of Scottish promotes excellence by excellence. It makes a difference, not just to the individual but to the supporting some of the most future of the country, to identify and strengthen future leadership. It is outstanding young scientists and enjoyable, although hard work, for the panel convener, because of the innovators working in Scotland wealth and diversity of achievement and promise that is on display in the today. The benefits of their selection process. Please be assured this is a real competition and there are research are far-reaching, with always more first-rate people than we have the funds to support. work in areas such as healthcare, There are three main research award schemes, named after our the environment and our ageing benefactors, the BP/RSE scheme; the Scottish Executive scheme, and the population, advancing the social Lloyds TSB Foundation for Scotland scheme. Each has a different focus, and each seeks to add value to research and foresight objectives of and economic wellbeing of wealth-creation and the quality of life. Scotland. The BP scheme was launched with an endowment in 1988 and supports It is only through valuable the fields of Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering and Control partnerships with key bodies such Engineering, solid State Science, Information Technology, Geological as BP, Caledonian Research Sciences and Chemistry (non-biological). Foundation, Lloyds TSB The Scottish Executive scheme is open to any discipline, but gives priority Foundation for Scotland, PPARC, to research likely to enhance the transfer of ideas and technology into Scottish Enterprise and the wealth creation and the improvement of quality of life, and seeks to Scottish Executive that we are support a balance of topics across the sciences and engineering. able to provide these awards. To The Lloyds TSB Foundation for Scotland supports research into all aspects each of these partners we offer of ageing, a subject increasingly dear to my heart. our sincere thanks. The Research In addition, we have the Enterprise Fellowship scheme, designed to help Awardees for 2004 have attained transform bright ideas emerging from research into company start-ups. a standard of excellence which Scottish Enterprise reviewed this scheme three years ago and was does them much credit and I wish sufficiently pleased that it decided to expand it. The reputation of this them every success. scheme has spread sufficiently that it has been taken up also by the UK Lord Sutherland of Particles Physics and Astronomy Research Council (PPARC) to aid spin-out Houndwood KT, FBA, PRSE company formation. President of The Royal Society I am delighted to report that the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences of Edinburgh Research Council (BBSRC) has agreed to fund a pilot scheme of three Enterprise Fellowships to begin in 2005. These will be UK wide Enterprise Fellowships available to postgraduate scientists working on technology that they think has some commercial potential. Professor David Saxon FRSE, Research Awards Convener Research Awards 2004

SCOTTISH EXECUTIVE Post-doctoral fellowships on any subject CORMACK BEQUEST. For promotion of Astronomical Knowledge and Research Personal Research Fellowships in Scotland Dr Richard Blythe. The Statistical Physics of Nonequilibrium Phenomena. University of Edinburgh Undergraduate Prize 2003 (Shared) Dr Timothy Drysdale. Micro Antennae for Terahertz Endoscope. University of Ms Nicola Armstrong. Solar Coronal Glasgow Heating – Nanoflares University of St Dr Annette MacLeod. Human infectivity in African trypanosomes: a genetic and Andrews population based approach. University of Glasgow Ms Isla Simpson. Accretion onto stellar Support Research Fellowships magnetospheres: Feeding Young Suns. University of St Andrews Prof Mark Ainsworth, FRSE. Discontinuous-Continuous Computational Models for Structural masonry. University of Strathclyde Cormack Postgraduate Prize 2003 Dr Jacques Fleuriot. Formal Verification of Air Traffic Management Algorithms. Mr Ben Panter. Star Formation and University of Edinburgh Metallicity History of the SDSS galaxy survey. University of Edinburgh Dr Catherine Jones. Identification of genes influencing Gyrodactylus salaris ectoparasite resistance in Atlantic salmon. University of Aberdeen Vacation Research Scholarships 2004 Mr Thomas Barber. The Age of Galaxies. Royal Observatory, University of Edinburgh LLOYDS TSB FOUNDATION FOR SCOTLAND Post-doctoral Fellowships for research Ms Ruth Carr. Determination of the which relates to improving the quality of life of the ageing population Origin of Coronal Loop Oscillations. University of St Andrews Personal Research Fellowships Mr Mark Douglas. The Magnetic Structure of the Solar Corona. Dr Ashley Craig. The role of Chk2 in mammalian ageing. University of Edinburgh University of St Andrews Dr Anna Dickinson. Why do older people get flummoxed by computers? Mr Matthew Lee. Shell Properties of Investigation into development of home-based communication application. University Detached Shell Stars. University of St of Dundee . Andrews Research Studentships Mr Stuart Lynn. Irradiation of Mr Charles Duffy. Neuromuscular Adaptations to Innovative Exercise programmes Accretion Disks near Black Holes. for Improving Functional Abilities in Older people. University of Strathclyde University of Edinburgh Miss Beth Wilson. Remembering the self: Autobiographical memory in an ageing Ms Rowan Smith. The Effects of population. University of Dundee Supernovae on the Interstellar Medium: Linking Theory and Observations. University of St Andrews

LESSELLS TRAVEL SCHOLARSHIPS For Honours Graduates (Scottish Universities) in BP PERSONAL RESEARCH Mechanical, Electronic, Electrical, Civil, Chemical and Computer Engineering for study outwith FELLOWSHIP Post-doctoral Fellowships the UK. on Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Mr Robert Currie. Active Management of Distributed and Renewable Generation. in Engineering, Control Engineering, Solid Distribution Networks. Massachusetss Institute of Technology , USA/University of State Sciences, Information Technology, Strathclyde Geological Sciences, and Organic Chemistry Mr Joseph Emans. Vibration enhanced drilling – Experimental and Analytical (non-biological). methods. Terralog’s offices, California , USA Terratek test facilities, Utah , USA/ Dr Benjamin Hourahine. Modern University of Aberdeen Theory for Optoelectronics Materials. University of Strathclyde Mr Blair Fyffe. Fracture properties of snow. Institute for Snow, Davos , Switzerland/ University of Edinburgh Dr Darren Graham. The Application Of Lean Methods To Construction Project Planning University of California at Berkeley , USA/University of Edinburgh Miss Natalie O V Plank. Carbon nanotubes for nanoscale electronics The University of Edinburgh/NEC Fundamental and Environmental Research Laboratories, Japan Ms Jana Urban. Tools for Personalised Multimedia Information Management University of Illinois , USA/University of Glasgow SCOTTISH ENTERPRISE, ENTERPRISE FELLOWSHIPS Postgraduate Fellowships for CALEDONIAN RESEARCH commercialisation of Research FOUNDATION

Communications Technologies Personal Research Fellowships. Post- Mr Nandaraj Hosabettu. Automatic Cable Fault Locator. University of Strathclyde doctoral Fellowships in the Biomedical Sciences Electronics Dr Graham Rena. Biochemistry and Mr Ralf Klinnert. A fun outdoor activity game for children to stimulate physical cellular biology of FOXO transcription activity. Napier University factors. Ninewells Hospital & Medical Energy School , University of Dundee Mr Matthias Dürr. Scottish Fuel Cell Consortium Ltd. University of Strathclyde Dr Rainer Breitling. Representation Dr Alan Feighery. SOFCRoll Fuel Cell. University of St Andrews and exploitation of diverse biological Dr Susanne Olsen. Hybrid Membrane Separation System. The Robert Gordon evidence in a systems biology context. University Institute of Biomedical & Life Sciences, University of Glasgow Food and Drink Prize Lectureship 2004. A prestigious Dr KC Namkung. Innovative Water Cleanup – Advanced Fenton Technology. University of Abertay , Dundee Prize Lecture alternating between Arts & Letters and the Biomedical Sciences. Life Sciences Joan Bakewell Dr Paul Ajuh. Discovery and development of lead compounds for use as anti-fungal drugs based on novel RNA splicing protein targets. University of Dundee SCOTTISH EXECUTIVE Dr Lindsay Cairns. Peptide Immunotherapy to suppress the immune response to blood group antigens. University of Aberdeen Teaching Fellowships Microelectronics Anne Lawson, Tobermory High School, Mull Dr Ian Apple. Silver Nanoparticles and SERRS Diagnostic Systems. University of Strathclyde Iain McGregor, Monifieth High School, Angus Optoelectronics Karen McNish, George Heriot’s School, Dr Rayne Longhurst. Development of Molecularly Imprinted Polymer (MIP) sensors Edinburgh for Environmental Applications. The Robert Gordon University The 3 teaching fellows were presented Mr Andrew J. Willshire. Remote Monitoring & control of electrical submersible with certificates by Jim Wallace, Deputy pumps using sensor technology. University of Strathclyde First Minister at a Science and Dr Martin O’Dwyer. Optical Biopsy System for Photo diagnosis of Cancer. University Parliament event on 10 November. of Glasgow

Former Enterprise Fellow, Roderick Sutherland, of Caledonian Business School, recently RESEARCH PRIZE-WINNERS 2004 won the UK Business and Management Student of the Year at the 2004 National Business Awards held in London on 9 November. Makdougall Brisbane Prize. For particular distinction in the promotion of scientific research. PPARC ENTERPRISE FELLOWSHIPS for commercialisation of research originally funded Dr James Wright. School of by PPARC Mathematics , University of Edinburgh Dr Chris Doran. A User-Friendly Optical Sensor System for Hostile Environments BP Prize Lecture in the Humanities GA Solutions – Revolutionising Geometry . Dr Rebecca Kay. Department of Mr Ian Latham. Aluminium mirrors for gamma ray telescopes and renewable Central and East European Studies, energies. University of of Glasgow Gunning Victoria Jubilee Prize WELLCOME RESEARCH WORKSHOP - Research Workshops in the fields of Biomedical Lectureship. In recognition of original Sciences (including Behavioural Sciences), Veterinary Sciences and History of Medicine work by scientists resident in or connected Dr David Donaldson. Getting the most from neuroimaging: developing standards, with Scotland. protocols and best practice for event-related potential studies of human cognition. Professor Peter Bruce FRSE. School of University of Stirling Chemistry , University of St Andrews Teaching Fellowships A Personal View

TEACHING FELLOWSHIPS – SUPPORTING TEACHERS THROUGHOUT SCOTLAND

After teaching in the same school for the Scottish Crop Research Institute in beginning of the Fellowship that this twenty years I felt I could do with a Dundee. There, Craig Simpson provided would be the end result. change. Happy in the school in which I invaluable advice and guidance on the The Fellowship was an enriching and was teaching, I didn’t really want to techniques of DNA extraction from stimulating experience that allowed me move. So when I saw the RSE Science plants, agarose gel electrophoresis and to update and develop practical skills Fellowships for Teachers advertised in PCR to be used in the project. The work and work in fresh environments. It gave The Times Ed, I thought it would suit here laid the foundations of the project me the opportunity to broaden my me down to the ground. It offered a and determined the road ahead. After horizons which I feel in turn has three month, full time placement this I was based back at Edinburgh enhanced my teaching. I thoroughly project working in an area related to my University in the SAPS lab until the end enjoyed the experience and feel I of the Fellowship. Space was a bit subject. The RSE scheme gave me the benefited both personally and cramped in the lab, but we all managed scope to devise my own project professionally. I would most certainly to get along. The project went well and enabling me to produce materials that encourage other teachers to take the results were very promising. There would be useful both to teachers and advantage of the opportunities were several PHd students in the next pupils. provided by these Fellowships. I feel it lab and they were a great source of would be an experience they would Having been on the Biotechnology advice and support. Nearing the end of thoroughly enjoy. Summer School at Edinburgh University the Fellowship a robust and reliable a few years ago I was impressed with practical protocol had been developed. Kenny Hamilton, Assistant Principal the work that the Science and Plants for At the turn of the year we (the SAPS Teacher of Science, Breadalbane Schools (SAPS) team had produced and Academy, Aberfeldy. team) went down to the ASE Annual was interested in working with this Meeting at Birmingham University to innovative team. Kath Crawford at SAPS staff the SAPS stall. Next to our stall was Biotechnology Scotland Project The Royal Society of Edinburgh the National Centre for Biotechnology responded enthusiastically to my Teaching Fellowships are funded by the Education (NCBE) stall and we got approach and came back with several Scottish Executive Transport, Enterprise chatting to the staff there. ideas for possible projects. After some and Lifelong Learning Department. discussion we agreed on a project that They had money to produce kits for The aim of these Fellowships is to allow would involve an investigation into the schools using the PCR technique but teachers, based in Scottish schools, use of the polymerase chain reaction their method wasn’t working very well time away from the classroom to (PCR) with plant DNA. PCR is a method and they took a keen interest in the update and refresh their knowledge in widely used to amplify small samples of project I was working on. To cut a long a business, industrial or commercial DNA for investigation. Following an story short they asked if they could base setting. This enables the teachers to interview with the RSE, my proposal their kits on the technique developed in bring an added dimension to the was accepted and I began my my project. After a discussion with all course work they teach in the hope of Fellowship in October 2002. At that the parties involved we happily agreed stimulating their pupils in their chosen time SAPS were based at the and £150,000 was used to produce subject. It is also hoped that the new Department of Cell and Molecular 1000 kits for state schools. When they material produced through this Biology at Edinburgh University. To were put on offer to schools online, Fellowship scheme will enhance the kickstart my fellowship, arrangements they were very quickly snapped up. I education system throughout Scotland had been made for me to spend time at could never have believed at the and not simply individual schools.