CONVERSATION & NEWS FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF AUTUMN/WINTER 2011

OLYMPIC DREAMS AND SPORTING SUCCESS Geology student and modern pentathlete, Rebecca Wain, gears up for 2016

LIBRARY COMES TO LIFE In September the first phase of our new state-of-the-art library opened

GROUNDBREAKING VASCULITIS RESEARCH Debbie Ley saddles up to support research

ALUMNI AND CAMPUS NEWS VOICE ■

Editors FEATURES ALUMNI NEWS Rachel Sandison Director of Marketing 3 18/19/20 Student Recruitment & A Word From The Alumni Profiles Alumni Relations Principal Sheila Mackenzie CONVERSATION & NEWS FROM THE AUTUMN/WINTER 2011 [email protected] Richie McColm Tarah Gillespie 4/5 Faith Liddell Senior Marketing Officer [email protected] Library Comes To Life LIBRARY COMES TO LIFE In September the first phase of our new state-of-the-art 21/22/23 library opened

OLYMPIC DREAMS Alumni RELATIONS 6/7 AND SPORTING SUCCESS News Geology student and Karen Scaife modern pentathlete, Rebecca Wainwright, Inspirational Mum gears up for 2016 Alumni Development GROUNDBREAKING Become an Alumni Ambassador VASCULITIS RESEARCH Debbie Ley saddles up Executive Saddles Up To Support to support research Career Mentoring ALUMNI AND [email protected] Research CAMPUS NEWS Mentor Profile Fiona Urquhart 8/9 Alumni Events Round-Up Alumni Development Student Profile Return to The Burn Executive [email protected] Rebecca Wain Appointment of Non-Executive www.abdn.ac.uk (front cover photo) Member to the University Communications Court and Member of the Audit Designed & Produced by Shaunagh Kirby 10/11 Committee Hampton Associates Head of Communications General Council Aberdeen, Tel: 01224 620562 Campus News www.hamptonassociates.com Jennifer Phillips to boast new Communication Officer Postgraduate Centre Printed by BGP, Bicester Jo Milne 50/52 College Bounds – Paper sourced from Communication Officer their story continues sustainable forests Voice magazine Rowett new build to University of Aberdeen expand nutrition role on King’s College world stage Aberdeen Scotland AB24 3FX Student journos gear up for Science Festival Principal & Vice- Students elect new Rector Professor FBA FRSE AcSS 12/13/14 News Round-Up Senior vice-principal Professor Stephen Aberdeen researchers Logan reveal stem cell treatment for osteoarthritis Secretary to the University Why craving carbs may be Steve Cannon in your genes after all © 2011 University of Creativity needed to tackle Aberdeen conflicts of conservation Rowett research can help feed the world Diving deep into controversies of ocean science Rural law group leads debate on topical issues for Scotland Partner of choice for a challenged energy sector Music prize finalists arrive from across the world Current students give big thumbs up for Aberdeen experience 16 A Mutual Honour 17 Events & Exhibitions WELCOME VOICE A WORD FROM THE Principal

Those of you who follow higher education We say exceptional because in the past few in the news will know that universities in the years we were one of the first universities UK are entering an unprecedented period in Britain to redesign our curriculum in of change. In recent months, the Scottish partnership with students and employers to Government has announced that from ensure that Aberdeen graduates are equipped 2012/13 universities will be allowed to charge to face the challenges of the 21st century. This students from the rest of the UK higher tuition has been so well received by employers that fees up to a maximum of £9,000 per annum the Aberdeen model is now being adopted as is the case in England and Wales. On top by other UK and international universities. of that, it has also announced some quite The 2011 National Student Survey has again significant proposals to reform the entire post- ranked Aberdeen as one of the UK’s top 20 16 education sector in Scotland. universities for student satisfaction. And we are equally highly regarded for our excellence The reform of the post-16 education system is in research with the most recent UK wide likely to mean a greater emphasis on increasing Research Assessment Exercise stating that retention rates and improving participation 90% of the research conducted at Aberdeen is from students of all backgrounds, providing of international quality. an excellent student experience, a greater concentration of research funding on those Professor Ian Diamond We can also point to the fact that not only do institutions engaged in world class research, FBA FRSE AcSS we have one of the most beautiful medieval a step change in engagement with industry, Principal and campuses in Europe but one that is equipped and more effective collaboration with other Vice-Chancellor with the very best in modern facilities for institutions. We need to engage with all these teaching and learning. The University has agendas, but we can take confidence from the As Scotland’s third oldest university, and the recently made an unprecedented multi-million fact that these are all challenges that we have fifth most ancient in the UK, the University pound investment to provide our students set for ourselves in our new Strategic Plan and of Aberdeen has a long track record as a with some of the very best facilities you will which we are all focused on delivering. destination of choice for students from other find anywhere in the UK. These include an Olympic-standard sports village, one of the The question of charging fees to UK students parts of the UK. The fact that we attract a large largest wireless campuses in Europe, a state-of- from outside Scotland is perhaps a more proportion of our students from across the UK the-art medical teaching facility on Europe’s emotive one. It represents a very difficult and the rest of the world is part of what makes largest health campus and, just opened this choice both for governments and for the experience of studying at Aberdeen special autumn, our fantastic new £57m library. universities. However, maintaining a fee at the and one of the many reasons we are ranked as current level for students from the rest of the one of the world’s leading universities. That There is no doubt that both these recent UK was no longer an option. mix of students is extremely valuable to us changes in higher education policy bring new and we are committed to making sure that challenges for universities in Scotland and Aberdeen continues to be an option for those Aberdeen is no exception. But I also believe non-Scottish students who wish to enjoy the that with change comes opportunity and the benefits of a four-year Scottish degree. Aberdeen family should be assured that we are ■ That is why we have decided that non-Scottish well placed to take advantage of them. domicile students will pay no more than £27,000 for a four-year degree programme, which is equivalent to the fees for a three year degree in most other parts of the UK. There are also options for well-qualified students to complete a degree in three years should they wish to. We also offer an extensive range of bursaries and scholarships so that, regardless of their background, able students can benefit from all that Aberdeen has to offer – which we believe is an exceptional student experience.

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LIBRARY COMES TO LIFE

Memories of hours spent in the It quickly became apparent that this library are likely to loom large when we new building would become an iconic recall our university days. new feature not only of King’s College Campus but also of the city of Aberdeen. But dusty shelves and books precariously balanced on cramped tables in dimly lit From the outset it was designed with corners are now as distant a memory for the wider community in mind and will current University of Aberdeen students provide a forum for the public, as well as as they are for the University’s alumni staff and students, to view the University’s community. extensive Special Collections. In September the first phase of our new The £57 million project is the largest state-of-the-art library opened, providing capital fundraising project yet undertaken a 21st century learning and research by the University and is being brought to environment for students, University staff, fruition as a result of generous support visitors and the public. from alumni and private donors around the world, from companies in many From a giant crater in the ground beside sectors of business, and from charitable the Fraser Noble and Meston buildings, trusts local and national. the University community has watched in eager anticipation as the enormous glass Conceived by Danish architects Schmidt fronted ‘cube’ started to rise. Hammer Lassen as a cube evoking the

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ice and light of the north, Chris credits the timely “The response to Student the sharp, modern design, transition to good the new library has Perspective: and striking interior of preparation. been absolutely sweeping contours around “If you get your planning overwhelming Katherine Duncan, who an asymmetrical atrium and it has been is studying for an MA are a far cry from the right and know your fantastic to see the in History, explains Queen Mother Library. dependencies – what must be done in order for building used in the how the new library has For Chris Banks, the next thing to happen way that we had all transformed the Aberdeen University Librarian – then you know how envisaged,” student experience. and Director of Library, things should pan out but “As a fourth-year history Special Collections and of course there is always student I spend more time Museums, overseeing a an element of worry and The striking new library in the library than in move of more than 26 there were a few sleepless has attracted huge interest lectures or seminars,” miles of books to the new nights. building and elsewhere from the University she says. on campus has proved a and wider communities The new library www.abdn.ac.uk/library “I have been watching challenging but exciting with many people keen dwarfs its opportunity. not only to see the new the new library during predecessor surroundings but the construction and I had expected to be impressed by the She explains that the – providing spectacular views afforded building itself but I hadn’t anticipated the difference it process of moving some facilities for of the North Sea and the would make to studying. 400,000 books as part the 16,000-strong countryside around. of this first phase while student community. “It is a building that you really want to go into, so light keeping existing services “The response to the new and you can’t help but look at the views. While the at the Queen Mother library has been absolutely Queen Mother Library served a purpose as a place to Library running as normal “Because you have overwhelming and it has read books, this building inspires you.” LIBRARY caused a few sleepless rehearsed it so many been fantastic to see the nights. times in your head it building used in the way Katherine says the impressive views from the library is like doing a musical that we had all envisaged,” also provide a new perspective on Aberdeen. “We took over the performance whereby says Chris. “The Campus is so close to the sea but you wouldn’t building from the top you do lots of preparation COMES TO down but the services “We put a lot of thought know it looking out from the majority of buildings. The but know everything still used most frequently needs to come together for into making it an new library really helps you to appreciate Aberdeen’s by students are on the the ‘performance’.” incredibly user-friendly great location.” lower floors so the whole building and even when But she says it is the finish of the library that sets it building had to be ready The new library dwarfs empty it had a sense of for opening day – there its predecessor – transcendental calm which apart for 21st century study. “It is far more than just a was no margin for the providing facilities for the it has retained now it is great building to look at, it is a fantastic place to work. timetable slipping. 16,000-strong student open and in use. community. “Close attention has been paid to the needs of students “With a little over a “It just felt so right and with the design so every desk has a plug and room for a “We will look back fondly month to complete the after two days it felt as laptop as well as your books. on the Queen Mother majority of the move and though we had been Library but it was built at “Having an opportunity to work in the new library the installation of furniture a time when Aberdeen had here forever. The new will really enhance my final year of study. The building and IT systems it was a just 5,000 students and the building has restored the has surpassed my expectations and really sets Aberdeen hectic time but everyone needs of those students library to the centre of involved in the project apart in terms of the student experience.” were very different. the University and it is really pulled together. wonderful to see it being “To mark the end of an era used as a social hub with “We closed the top floors we had a small party as we of the Queen Mother the café on the ground closed QML. A number floor, as well as an area for Library first but of course of colleagues had worked learning.” many of the books were there for more than 30 still needed by students so years, one for 36, and The library will also we ran a fetching service there were a lot of fond soon become home to which saw library staff memories attached to life the University’s Special running from one site to in the building. Collections and will the other with books in host a winter exhibition trollies! “We spend time reminiscing and sharing Rebels with a cause: The “We were totally closed stories, including one of Jacobites and the Global for just two days before a student who was well Imagination, offering an opening the new library known to staff for overdue opportunity for the public on September 12th. It books, who once brought to access rarely-seen and was certainly a busy time in a box of chickens and internationally significant and not one any of us will let them loose in the material from the forget.” library!” collection in Aberdeen. ■

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SADDLESMUM UP TO SUPPORT RESEARCH

Raising money for groundbreaking University research into vasculitis is the goal of a mum-of-two who nearly lost her life to a rare blood vessel disorder.

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“But 2008 was a busy year – we were building our house, I work nights, I was studying for an SVQ and I was pregnant with my second son Lucas who was born at the end of October.” Debbie went to the doctor before Christmas about her tiredness but the GP blamed it on being post-natal and looking after two children. Her family took her back to the doctor in January when Debbie was admitted to the hospital’s renal unit and had a kidney biopsy before being diagnosed with Wegener’s Granulomatosis. Debbie spent almost two weeks in Debbie’s efforts to raise money for research into hospital being given drugs, blood Wegener’s Granulomatosis are very much welcomed transfusions and a special treatment that by University of Aberdeen researcher Dr Lars Erwig removes antibodies from the blood. (pictured above). hen Debbie Ley (pictured W Prior to being diagnosed, Debbie had above) felt utterly exhausted she blamed it “It’s great to see Debbie doing so well and it’s extremely enjoyed mountain biking. on just having had her second baby while heartening that we are now able to give patients like simultaneously studying and overseeing “I tried going out on my mountain bike Debbie a quality of life that wouldn’t have been possible the building of the new family home. but found it too hard, but then I bought 30 years ago,” he says. a new road bike and I’ve never looked While that would be enough to drain “Like all medical researchers we always need more back,” she says. “I now do 80 to 100 miles anyone, Debbie’s symptoms were actually funding and are delighted when people like Debbie are a week on the bike as well as swimming caused by a relatively rare disorder that keen to help support the groundbreaking research we are and eating as healthily as I can.” just 30 years ago would almost certainly doing here in Aberdeen into autoimmune diseases.” have claimed her life. As well ensuring she is in the best of The University is one of the few centres in the UK to health, Debbie has another goal. The mum-of-two has Wegener’s take a comprehensive approach to autoimmune diseases Granulomatosis – a vascular disease “I’ve already raised money by such as Debbie’s. which affects one in 20,000 to 30,000 cycling 50 miles from Aviemore There are many different types of autoimmune disease – people and causes inflammation of the over the Lecht to Ballater…” blood vessels, often affecting multiple when the immune system overreacts and the body starts organs, and can lead to kidney failure. attacking its own cells - but those being investigated “I want to raise money and awareness by Dr Erwig include systemic lupus erythematosus, Debbie is lucky to be alive – by the for research Lars is conducting at the ANCA associated vasculitis which includes Wegener’s time she was admitted to hospital and University into Wegener’s and other Granulomatosis, and large vessel vasculitis including diagnosed with the autoimmune disease vascular diseases,” she adds. Takayasu’s arteritis. her kidney function was down to 9%. “I’ve already raised money by cycling 50 “What we are doing is taking a full scale approach to the Consultant nephrologist Dr Lars Erwig, miles from Aviemore over the Lecht to problem of autoimmune diseases which unfortunately who co-runs the Vasculitis Clinic at Ballater and I’ve also just entered the are not conditions that are as high profile as other Aberdeen Royal Infirmary and is an Etape Caledonia – an 81-mile cycle diseases, but can be devastating,” explains Dr Erwig. internationally recognised researcher in taking place next year and funds raised inflammatory and autoimmune diseases from that will go towards Lars’ research.” “We are studying the mechanisms of the disease – what at the University of Aberdeen, said: causes it, what are the inflammatory changes that occur “When we saw Debbie I thought this was in the body. going to be touch and go. Anyone wishing to sponsor Debbie should contact: Vicki Corbett at the “We are also trying to understand the pathways that “Thankfully, however, she responded well University’s Development Trust on drive the disease with the aim of identifying new to treatment. But if it had been a week +44 (0)1224 274111 or targets for drugs to treat it. later, it might have been too late.” [email protected] “Some of our studies are translational – this means that Before her hospital admission in January The University of Aberdeen we are taking what we have discovered in the lab and 2009, Debbie’s symptoms, apart from Development Trust is a registered using these techniques to try to help treat patients. crippling exhaustion, were severe nose charity (SCO02938) established to bleeds, ‘crusting’ in her nostrils, coughing raise funds to develop and enhance “We are also involved in clinical trials that involve blood and trouble passing water. the University of Aberdeen’s other centres across the world and the aim of many of position as one of the world’s these is to find treatments that are less toxic and have “I’m a really confident, driven, on-the- leading universities. All donations fewer side effects for diseases like Debbie’s. go person but I’d been feeling really are used to support students, tired and had lost all my energy and research and teaching. ■ “We are making strides and with the support of patients enthusiasm,” the 38-year-old recalls. like Debbie we will continue to make headway.”

7 VOICE ■ Student Profile Rebecca Wain Many of us watch the Olympics in awe and think ‘if only I could do that’…

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When Geology student Rebecca Wain watched female modern pentathletes compete for the first time in the 2000 games in Sydney she set her sights on taking up the multi-discipline event. Little more than a decade later she is one of Britain’s elite pentathletes hoping to realise her own Olympic dreams in 2016. The 20-year-old former Monifieth High School pupil explains how watching Britain’s Steph Cooke collect the first gold medal presented for the sport changed the course of her own life. “I was one of those kids who wanted to try everything,” she says, “I belonged to every club I could find and was really into ballet, gymnastics and horse riding. “Watching the modern pentathletes in the 2000 Games instantly planted the idea in my head that I could do that I have been awarded the Rebecca now has her – I could go to the Olympics and win a medal!” “Because my BP Prize as one of the top schedule is so sights set firmly on the But with five sports – fencing, swimming, horse riding, students in both first and 2016 Olympics in shooting and running – to learn, simply competing in busy it has been second year. Rio de Janeiro. the event proved a major challenge. AN enormous help “Along with the having the great “I’ve always liked to be “I did a lot of running at school, had swimming lessons financial award I receive facilities of busy so a multi-discipline and went horse riding, holding onto the idea that one tremendous support from Aberdeen Sports sport really suits me,” she day I would do the Modern Pentathlon. the sport and exercise Village all on adds. “I probably get up “When I was 15 I got in touch with the Scottish team at the University one site…” earlier than your average Pentathlon Club and then joined Dundee fencing club. through strength and student and head to the As soon as I tried fencing I was hooked and I was sure conditioning gym sessions, gym for a couple of hours keep in touch with him then that I’d found the sport for me. physiotherapy, sports or go for a run. massage, body composition as he has been extremely “At that point I still hadn’t tried shooting and it did “I’ll then get ready and testing and have a team of interested and enthusiastic not come quite so naturally! I was a bit concerned that head out to University people that I can go to for about what I do. I would never get the hang of it but I stuck at it and – normally I have two any help and advice I may “Without the George K practised and have come to really enjoy it. one-hour lectures and a need in my sporting career. Yule Sports Scholarship two-three hour practical “I need things to keep me busy and when you have to I wouldn’t be doing the train in five different sports there is definitely no time to session. I’ll come back “Without Modern Pentathlon now get bored!” from class grab some food the George K and certainly not at an and head out for training, When it came to choosing a university, Aberdeen Yule SPORTS elite level, as there would doing between one and proved an obvious choice with the newly-opened sports scholarship be no way that I could two hours on two or three village and a world-class department for Geology and I wouldn’t be afford to live away from of my sports. Geography. doing the Modern home without a job and Pentathlon now my schedule really doesn’t “Because my schedule Under the guidance of coach Terry Cullen, Rebecca has and certainly permit the time for that.” is so busy it has been an made the most of the state-of-the-art facilities, training not at an elite enormous help having the for a minimum of 20 hours per week. Days are certainly busy for level…” Rebecca, who must juggle great facilities of Aberdeen She says good organisation is the key to fitting her lessons and coursework Sports Village all on one punishing training regime around her studies for a around the training for site, especially as I live just BSc Geology and Petroleum Geology. Rebecca, now in “I get to meet the other two to three different across the road. It means I her third year, also receives the George K Yule Sports bursars and scholars at sports each day as well as can manage my time really scholarship, without which she says she would not be the University in seminars gym sessions and running. well and fit in as much able to compete at an elite level. covering topics such as training as possible.” massage therapy and But she says it is the hectic “The George K Yule Sports scholarship is a four-year nutrition, all of which is and varied nature of the To achieve her Olympic scholarship and so lasts the full time of my degree and hugely beneficial to help Modern Pentathlon that dream Rebecca plans to I receive £1,250 per year to help towards the costs of broaden our knowledge as keeps her going, and she dedicate herself full-time my sport – which with five different disciplines can be athletes. I have also been is currently ranked 9th to her training once she expensive! given the opportunity among the Great Britain finishes her degree, before “The award is conditional on maintaining a high level of to meet George my Senior Woman and the 5th embarking on a career in academic achievement as well as sporting excellence and scholarship donor and in the junior age group. the energy sector. ■

9 VOICE ■ CAMPUS NEWS The new library may be dominating the Granite City skyline and drawing admiring comments from near and far – but it is far from the only building on campus now being reinvented to provide a learning environment suited to the needs and working styles of students and staff today.

“Flexibility has been at the their interiors to create modern Fraser Noble forefront of the thinking behind 50/52 College offices and meeting rooms, while to boast new the design of the teaching and Bounds – their retaining the historic fabric of Postgraduate research spaces,” says Professor story continues the building. The aim is to retain Centre Tom O’Donoghue, Head of many of the internal features, the School of Engineering. What former student would not including the principal rooms, the Modern, flexible, high-quality “The teaching spaces have recall those familiar twin houses original decorative plasterwork, spaces for an enhanced learning been designed to be inspiring, on the Chapel side of College and the fireplaces. and research environment is the multi-functional rooms with Bounds, looking across at the thinking behind Phase 2 of the the flexibility to suit different minaret-like towers of Powis The refurbishment is due to be refurbishment of the Fraser Noble disciplines and different teaching Gate? completed next May, following building on the King’s College methods, including collaborative which the new residents will be Most recently, the former campus. groupwork. And we’re especially the administrative team of the Luthuli House was home to the excited about the Engineering School of Divinity, History and The first and second floors Aberdeen University Student Postgraduate Centre – which Philosophy, currently located in of the west wing are being Association before it moved to completely renovated, providing will give us a spacious, open plan King’s College, together with area with modern study booths bigger, refurbished premises in academic staff in History of fully-modernised teaching and the nearby Butchart Centre - research facilities for staff and for students and researchers, and Art and those associated with with meeting rooms and a social itself vacated with the arrival of Scandinavian Studies. students, including electronic the grand new Aberdeen Sports research laboratory facilities, a space too.” Village. Head of School, Dr Philip dedicated optics laboratory, high The Fraser Noble building was Ziegler, says his team are looking and low density IT facilities, and opened as the Natural Philosophy The distinctive pair of Georgian forward to moving into their a large open plan Engineering Department in 1963 by Sir G P semi-detached granite houses new home. “My colleagues and Postgraduate Centre with study Thomson, former Professor of have served a variety of purposes I are delighted and honoured facilities for up to 70 postgraduate Natural Philosophy at Aberdeen during the history of the to become part of the history of students and postdoctoral who won the Nobel Prize in University, housing a number these amazing houses,” says Phil. researchers. The laser labs on the Physics for the work that he of academic departments, “With their familiar frontage lower ground floor will also have a did here in the late 1920s. The including, at one time, Divinity and prominent position in the makeover. building was named in grateful and Mathematics. Prior to that streetscape of Old Aberdeen, Building work is due to finish this recognition of the valuable they had enjoyed the status of this renovation is not only giving December, and students and staff services to the University of Sir professorial manses, serving as the opportunity to renew their will be able to experience the new Fraser Noble MBE, Principal genteel residences for University long service to the University, but facilities from February of next and Vice Chancellor 1976-1981, Professors of Mathematics and will also beautifully augment the year. who formally re-opened it after Greek. Sir Edward Wright, one- campus estate to the public eye.” extensive refurbishment on 16 time Professor of Mathematics The £4 million project on the November 1988. and University Principal, and west wing brings to £13 million Archibald Cameron, Regius the extent of investment in Professor of Greek, were both the learning and research 20th century occupants of these environment for engineering, elegant homes. physics and mathematics students and staff. A £9 million first Today, the buildings now known phase, carried out in 2005-2007, as 50/52 College Bounds are refurbished laboratories on being prepared for a new role. the lower first floor, and built Work started this September a new wing for the Institute of to renovate the B-listed houses Mathematics. as one building, upgrading

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clinical facilities of three hospitals Rowett new – will create unique benefits for Student journos Students elect new build to expand scientists, clinicians and students. gear up for science rector nutrition role on festival world stage The cost of the new building Well-known businessman will be met by the Scottish Why is happiness green? Can Maitland Mackie will be the new A new £40 million state-of-the- Government and the sale of the psychology learn from magic? Rector of the University. art research building is the latest land at Bucksburn on the A96 And is Nessie plain barmy? Dr Mackie said: “I am privileged development in the evolution of approach to Aberdeen, where Just a flavour of the wise and the that the students have chosen me. the University’s Rowett Institute the Institute is currently located wacky – and above all the serious I am aware from my experience of Nutrition and Health, which and which will become surplus science – waiting to intrigue on the University Court that will further increase its reputation to requirements once the new readers of the second issue of Au the student body is the principal as a leading international centre building is open. Science Magazine. customer of the University - of excellence. Professor Peter Morgan, and the customer is king! It is Editor Heather Doran explains: Key to the merger in June 2008 Director of the Rowett Institute an honour to be representing “There’s so much fantastic science of the former Rowett Research of Nutrition and Health and a the principal customers of the that goes on in Aberdeen, we just Institute and the University of Vice Principal of the University, University. felt we wanted to share it with Aberdeen was the creation of believes the new building’s unique a wide audience. The magazine Tessa Birley, President of advantages will help position a world class centre of research gives students a chance to express Aberdeen University Students’ the Institute at the forefront in nutrition and health, with what they think is exciting – and Association, added: “I am really of tackling not only national scientists housed together in with a fresh and very different delighted - not least because problems such as obesity - but modern purpose-designed angle to how science stories are of Maitland’s commitment also the new world challenge of facilities close to other health usually written.” to environmental issues in research facilities and health food security. “Food security is addition to his knowledge of delivery. much more than simply how to The editorial team is part of our University. We are confident increase the efficiency of food the student Science Journalism he will be a real champion for The construction contract will be production,” says Peter. “It must Society which has over 25 Aberdeen students.” awarded next year for the five- also embrace the need to produce undergraduate and postgraduate storey building at , healthy and nutritious food, and members studying biological Maitland graduated with a BSc in Agriculture from the University of designed by architects Halliday remove any barriers to accessing a sciences, geology, anthropology Aberdeen in 1958 and MA Hons Fraser Munro to provide an good diet. and other science disciplines - all ideal, modern, environmentally- Economics in 1971, having been sharing a passion for enthusing excellent, interdisciplinary “The unique advantages this new chair of the Aberdeen Students’ and engaging a wide audience research environment, including building will bring will be a huge Charities Campaign during his with science. first-class accommodation for asset in achieving our goal.” time at University. In 1996 the members of the public taking “Next year will be a big year University awarded Maitland an part in nutrition research. The for science at Aberdeen,” adds honorary Doctor of Laws degree. building is expected to be ready Heather. “Having the British In his day job, Maitland is for occupation late 2014. Science Festival here on our Chairman of Mackie’s of Scotland, campus next September will Location, they say, is everything. the family-owned ice cream really put down an international The positioning of the new and crisp business. He is also an marker for the exciting research building at Foresterhill, adjacent advocate of renewable energy. happening here. The Au team to the Institute of Medical LOVES science and we can’t wait Since Maitland is currently a Sciences, the and member of the University Court, to get involved!” the Health Sciences Building an election will now be held for a - and a stone’s throw from the www.aumag.co.uk successor to this Court role.

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Research leader Dr Alastair Why craving carbs MacKenzie explains: “The switch may be in your controls the areas of the brain genes after all which allows us to select which Among the biggest public foods we would like to eat, and health crises facing us today are if it is turned on too strongly soaring levels of obesity and we are more likely to crave fatty binge drinking, particularly in foods and alcohol. For early Europe. Now we may be closer Europeans a preference for higher to understanding the root calorie content would have been causes – thanks to scientists at important to survive the tough the University’s new Kosterlitz northern European winters, and Centre. people with the weaker switch The work – published this may not have survived. This summer in the Journal of suggests that people of European Neuropsychopharmocology found descent have evolved to favour a Aberdeen a genetic ‘switch’ - or enhancer - replacement. Longer term aims high fat and alcohol rich diet.” researchers include finding a way to ‘switch which has remained unchanged reveal stem cell for 300 million years. This DNA treatment for on’ stem cells already present in The study also found that changes switch controls the galanin osteoarthritis patient’s joints, and hopefully in the same switch were linked developing a bank of universal gene, which, when turned on in to depression. The Aberdeen Arthritis Research UK has worked donor cells for use with any an area of the brain called the scientists worked alongside a with researchers at Foresterhill patient, making treatment cheaper hypothalamus, regulates appetite team based in the Institute of and more widely available. and thirst. When the team and three universities in England Psychiatry in London in work compared different racial groups on a major experimental tissue Professor Cosimo De Bari leads which could eventually lead engineering initiative which seeks they found that the switch has the Aberdeen team which also to a whole new generation of to regenerate bone and cartilage mutated over the centuries, and includes Professor David Reid. by using stem cells to repair that twice as many Asian people antidepressants as well as drugs to the damaged joint – offering “Every patient has their own had a weaker variant compared to reduce cravings for fatty food and the potential to revolutionise ‘repair kit’,” explains Cosimo. “So Europeans. alcohol. treatment for people in the early whereas joint replacement surgery stages of the disabling condition replaces the damaged tissue with osteoarthritis. engineered metal and plastic, At least eight million people we’re trying to assist the human in the UK suffer the pain and body to repair itself. disability of osteoarthritis, with “Keyhole and minimally invasive many having joint replacement operations for early arthritis have operations when the disease has been in development for some deteriorated to a severe end stage. years and we propose to improve Treatments for early osteoarthritis on these techniques to develop are usually limited to painkillers more widely-available treatments. and physiotherapy. This requires research at all levels Within five years, researchers of the process, from laboratory aim to treat early osteoarthritis to bedside. We’re confident that by introducing stem cells into elements of this approach will damaged joints as a one-stop reach the patient in the operating day case procedure, delaying or theatre within the first five years.” even reducing the need for joint

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ideas to extend the engagement Creativity needed of Creative Scotland, and the Jean-Michel Cousteau to tackle conflicts possibility of a new centre at addresses 1,000 marine of conservation Aberdeen to link theory and scientists in Aberdeen practice in tackling environmental As the human impact on our conflict across the world. planet rises, efforts to conserve biodiversity and resources are Aberdeen Centre for coming increasingly into conflict Environmental Sustainability: with interest groups. The power www.aces.ac.uk of arts and sciences working together was one outcome from the international conference Conservation Conflicts: strategies for coping with a changing world held Rowett research in Aberdeen this August. can help feed the world Organised by ACES - the Aberdeen Centre for Estimates suggest food production Environmental Sustainability may need to increase by up to (an initiative of the University of 50% by 2030 to feed a world Aberdeen and the James Hutton population that could reach nine Institute) the event brought billion by 2050. But how do we do together leading international this without putting huge pressure experts to explore examples of on the finite resources of energy, such conflicts from around the land and water? world, including conserving Diving deep into co-organised the conference. Some of the finest minds in food, species such as tigers, snow controversies of “There are few more critical issues health and agricultural research ocean science leopard and turtles, establishing facing our planet than the health and practice in Scotland met at and maintaining protected areas of our marine ecosystems,” he the University in September to Experts with opposing views on such as the Serengeti and Scottish stresses. “There are also many debate key issues around the topic some of the most critical issues marine protected areas, conflicts differing views both on the over land use such as biofuels of food security. facing the planet were brought to Aberdeen early autumn for a interpretation of data, on the or agriculture, and – closer to Hosted by the University of major international gathering of seriousness of the challenges, and home - reintroductions and deer Aberdeen Rowett Institute of 1,000 marine scientists, industry the actions we should take. We are management in Scotland. Nutrition and Health, the event experts and policymakers. excited to have this opportunity Professor Steve Redpath of aimed to find out how Scotland’s to bring together scientists, ACES describes the event as a life science research base could be The week-long World Conference industry experts, interest groups huge success. “We want to find harnessed to make a significant on Marine Biodiversity, organised and policymakers from across ways to make conservation more contribution to the global by the Universities of Aberdeen the world to explore and debate effective through new thinking challenge of food security. and St Andrews, provided the these very controversial issues and platform for lively debate on hot about how conflicts are managed. hopefully to agree actions we need Professor Peter Morgan, Vice- topics including the extinction Two aspects stood out from the to take.” Principal and Director of the of marine species, the impact on considerable feedback we received: Rowett Institute of Nutrition and our oceans of climate change, Keynote speakers included first, the diversity of contributions Health and organiser of the event the results of fishing policies and Professor Shahid Naeem of from natural, social sciences and stresses Scotland’s long tradition industry, and the conservation of Columbia University New humanities - with case studies in leading the world in research sea mammals. York, Dr Mark Costello of from conflicts across the globe; relevant to food security. “We have the University of Auckland, secondly, the combination of arts a healthy and prosperous farming French ocean explorer, Jeff Ardron of the Marine and sciences. Through Creative and food sector, underpinned by environmentalist, educator and Conservation Biology Institute Scotland we brought four research from the University and film producer Jean-Michel in Washington, DC, Jóhann practising artists to Aberdeen research institute sectors,” says Cousteau, son of famous Sigurjónsson of the Marine to perform and display their Peter. “We plan to break down underwater explorer Jacques- Research Institute, Iceland, and work around conflicts. Delegates the huge topic of food security Yves Cousteau, kicked off the Professor Terry Dawson of the told us how this diversity of into research questions and agree conference in a hard-hitting University of Dundee. disciplines and approaches made the priorities. We will then be session featuring poignant The event was supported by for an enriching and inspiring able to put together research messages from young people ACSEF - Aberdeen City and experience.” collaborations that are good for who will inherit the oceans, and video footage from some of the Shire Economic Future - and by Outcomes of the event include Scotland and good for global food world’s most challenged marine Energetica - the public-private a written review setting the security.” environments. ‘energy corridor’ between Aberdeen future agenda for studies of Rowett Institute of Nutrition and and Peterhead - and with an conflicts, a book now underway Health: www.abdn.ac.uk/rowett Dr Martin Solan from the exhibition sponsored by Shell. on conflict management, further University of Aberdeen’s Oceanlab Continued ➭

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the globe, who flocked to the Rural law group three-day event early September Music prize leads debate on at Aberdeen Exhibition and finalists arrive topicAL issues for Conference Centre. from across the Scotland world Academic, research and The fast-moving legal issues innovation, and student Spanish composer Marc Garcia being encountered in the drive recruitment staff showcased Vitoria has won the 2011-12 to create more sustainable rural the University’s portfolio of Aberdeen Music Prize, run in communities attracted over a undergraduate and professional collaboration with the BBC hundred delegates from the world development and research Scottish Symphony Orchestra of law, agriculture, conservation, opportunities in petroleum (BBC SSO). The winning planning, policy, environment, geology, exploration and composer receives a prize energy, and other interested production, all branches of of £5,000 in the form of a commission to write a new piece sectors to the University early in engineering including subsea and for the BBC SSO which will September. safety, economics, oil and gas law subsequently be broadcast on and other business studies. Current students Outcomes of the two-day Rural BBC Radio 3. give big thumbs Law Conference: Sustainable Oil economist Professor Alex up for Aberdeen Under the patronage of Dame Rural Development are now being Kemp has rarely been out of the experience Evelyn Glennie, the competition written for publication in legal media over recent months for celebrates the best new composers and environmental journals. his expert contribution to the Eighty-eight percent of final year in contemporary music, and this students responding to this year’s The conference addressed discussion about the tax issues year attracted more than 400 National Student Survey (NSS) key issues for rural lawyers - surrounding North Sea oil and entries from 80 countries. The five declared themselves satisfied with including agricultural tenancies, gas, and this autumn for the finalists performed their works their experience at Aberdeen, crofting, planning, wildlife and publication of his two volumes at Aberdeen’s Cowdray Hall over placing the University equal third environment - from a range of detailing the official history of the the weekend of 4-6 November. in Scotland with Stirling, behind disciplinary perspectives and North Sea hydrocarbon industry. Other finalists were Shai Cohen St Andrews and Glasgow. against the backdrop of CAP There was also much discussion from Israel, Zvonimir Nagy from reform and the introduction of around the University’s new the USA, Christophe Looten The NSS is a survey of final year Scotland’s first sustainable land products for the energy sector from France and Azusa Yomogida undergraduates at UK universities use strategy. including the new energy web from Japan. conducted by Ipsos-Mori on portal (see below) and the first behalf of the UK funding councils. Speakers included Brian Pack, issue of Energeia, a new magazine This year’s response rate at our Chair of the Pack Inquiry into highlighting how the University University was the highest ever the future of agricultural support is working with the offshore at 66%. in Scotland, Nigel Miller, industry to meet its challenges. President of the NFU Scotland, Results indicate that Aberdeen the agricultural economist Peter Two new centres of expertise outperforms the sector and the Cook, and Mark Shucksmith, are now engaging with industry Scottish university averages on all Chair of the inquiry into crofting. to meet the professional themes in the survey. Questions development needs of staff in in which we did particularly Organisers Dr Aylwin Pillai and the sector. The University’s new well included ‘staff are good at Anne-Michelle Slater of the Centre for Energy Law is now explaining things’ (which 93% of University’s Rural Law Research attracting interest from around students agreed with), ‘I have been Group were delighted with the able to access general IT resources the world, and the ExploHUB Dr Paul Mealor (pictured), who success of what turned out to be when I needed to’ (91% agree), and training centre was officially made worldwide news for his a very stimulating event, highly 88% said that their course was opened in October to provide original composition performed at relevant to Scotland’s future. ‘intellectually stimulating’. professional development for this April’s Royal Wedding, is the University of Aberdeen Rural industry geoscientists in the Director of the Aberdeen Music Students studying Microbiology Law Research Group: exploration challenges now facing Prize. “Since the Prize was first and those in Film Studies gave www.abdn.ac.uk/rural-law the sector. launched,” says Paul, “this search their courses 100% - and Medicine for creative talent has helped to came in at 98%. Other courses Energy web portal: develop Aberdeen’s role as one which scored over 95% for overall www.abdn.ac.uk/energy Partner of choice of the major cultural centres in quality were History, Sociology, for a challenged Centre for Energy Law: the UK. We are also honoured English Studies, Anthropology, energy sector www.abdn.ac.uk/energylaw to have such a well-respected Biology, Law, and Physical and world-renowned composer, Geography and Environmental ‘Your partner of choice’ was the Energeia magazine: Professor Julian Anderson, as our Science. A further nine subjects theme for the University’s www.abdn.ac.uk/energy/ 2011 judge.” exceeded the University’s overall energeia satisfaction rate of 88%. engagement in Offshore Europe Aberdeen Music Prize: 2011, attracting unprecedented ExploHUB: www.abdn.ac.uk/ For full results see: interest among the thousands of oil www.abdn.ac.uk/explohub aberdeenmusicprize www.unistats.com and gas representatives from across

14

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We are sending more and more of our Please contact the Alumni Relations office by post: updates and communications by Alumni Relations University of Aberdeen email, this will include future Alumni Relations editions of the VOICE. FREEPOST AB600 Aberdeen To ensure you receive future editions and to help AB24 3ZQ us to keep you updated with all of the news, Or email: [email protected] events and alumni bene ts on offer please Alternatively, you can complete an online update by provide us with your email address and inform joining our online community at: us of any other changes in your contact details. www.abdn.ac.uk/alumni

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A MUTUAL HONOUR Among those being recognised Mrs Jenny Shirreffs, an Aberdeen November 2011 at our graduation ceremonies in graduate, has been a prominent volunteer November 2011 are Dame Hazel Genn, Dame Hazel Genn DBE and contributor to the charitable sector in Chief Rabbi lord Jonathan Sacks, Doctor of Laws Aberdeen over many years. Child welfare, Jeremy Huw Williams, Mrs Jenny disability and medical charities, and the arts Chief Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks Shirreffs & Dr Michael Wyllie. Doctor of Laws in Aberdeen have all benefitted from her Dame Hazel Genn is an internationally sustained and dedicated efforts. A Commander Mrs Jenny Shirreffs MBE DL CStJ Master of the University renowned scholar on civil justice and is Dean of the Order of St John and Deputy of Laws, Professor of Socio-Legal Studies Lieutenant of the City of Aberdeen, Mrs Jeremy Huw Williams and co-director of the Centre for Empirical Shirreffs’ voluntary service to the community Doctor of Music Legal Studies at University College London. was recognised with the MBE in 2009. Dr Michael Wyllie In 2006 Dame Hazel was appointed an Doctor of Science Music is represented by the internationally Inaugural Commissioner of the new Judicial acclaimed Welsh baritone soloist and opera Appointments Commission established under star, Jeremy Huw Williams. Since making the Constitutional Reform Act 2005 and also In July 2011 leading figures in music, his debut with Welsh National Opera as served as a member of the Committee on public health, academia and industry were Guglielmo in Cosi fan tutte the celebrated Standards in Public Life from 2003 to 2007. honoured. They included: baritone has appeared in some fifty operatic In 2009 she was appointed to the Secretary of roles. He has given performances at major Sir , our former Principal State’s Advisory Panel on Judicial Diversity. and Vice-Chancellor; Richard Thompson, A Fellow of the British Academy, she was venues in North and South America, Australia, Hong Kong, and most European countries. A musician and founder member of Fairport awarded the US Law and Society International Convention; Dame Carol Black, National Prize for distinguished scholarship in 2005. renowned exponent of contemporary music Director for Health and Work; John She has also been a member of the Judicial Jeremy Huw Williams studied at St John’s Manzoni, President and Chief Executive Studies Board for 12 years, contributing to the College, Cambridge, at the National Opera Officer of Talisman Energy Inc; Roger training for the judiciary at all levels. Studio, and with April Cantelo. Jeremy Huw Williams received the inaugural Sir Geraint Williams MBE, former Master of Chapel A greatly respected religious leader, Lord Evans Award for his contribution to Welsh and Ceremonial Music at the University; Sacks has been Chief Rabbi of the United music. No stranger to Aberdeen he has also Alan Amoore, member of University Court; Hebrew Congregations of the Commonwealth been a popular Visiting Fellow in Performance Professor William Saunders, former Chair since 1991. Prior to his appointment, Jonathan at the University. of the Dental Schools Council of the United Sacks was Principal of Jews’ College, as well as Kingdom; Michael Gazzaniga, Director of A former pharmacology student of the rabbi of the Golders Green and Marble Arch the Sage Center, University of California, University with a distinguished career in the synagogues. The Chief Rabbi is a prolific and Santa Barbara; Sir Paul Nurse, President of pharmaceutical industry is also recognised. award-winning author. A frequent contributor the Royal Society; and Professor K Srinath Dr Michael Wyllie, Director and Founder of to radio, television and the national press, he Reddy, President of the Public Health Global Pharma, is a double graduate of the delivered the annual Reith Lectures in 1990. Foundation of India. He has also been a visiting professor at several University of Aberdeen. He has over 30 years universities in Britain, the United States and of experience in senior management positions Israel. Rabbi Sacks took his seat in the House in the pharmaceutical industry. While Director of Lords in 2009. In 2011 Lord Sacks was of Biology at Pfizer he received a Pfizer awarded the Ladislaus Laszt Ecumenical Achievement Award for developing the world’s and Social Concern Award by Ben-Gurion first high throughput screening system. He is University, a prize which acknowledged his Chairman of Glycomar Ltd, the Oban-based status as “a widely-published theologian and marine biotechnology company and a member philosopher whose aspirations for truth and of the Kosterlitz Centre for Therapeutics mutual respect of all peoples guide his actions”. advisory board. ■

16 FEATURES VOICE EVENTS & EXHIBITIONS For further details of the events listed below and a full list of upcoming events organised by the University of Aberdeen visit: www.abdn.ac.uk/events or call: +44 (0)1224 273233 The events detailed below are correct as at November 2011.

Tuesday evenings www.abdn.ac.uk/sustainable- African Film Series (September – international-development December) 2011 Concert: University of Aberdeen Symphony Orchestra 24 November 2011 www.abdn.ac.uk/music/events Museum Lecture Series: Street literature and popular song in Scotland from 29 November 2011 www.abdn.ac.uk/kingsmuseum 1750 - 1900 Café Controversial: Low prices, high spirits – alcohol misuse 5 December 2011 www.abdn.ac.uk/science Museum Lecture Series: Porridge and Politics - how 19th century prison 6 December 2011 www.abdn.ac.uk/kingsmuseum reform in Scotland foreshadowed political centralisation Museum Lecture Series: Renewed Life for Scottish Castles 13 December 2011 www.abdn.ac.uk/kingsmuseum University Transport Studies Group Conference 4 – 6 January 2012 www.utsg.net Museum Lecture Series: Irish Iron Age Bog Bodies 10 January 2012 www.abdn.ac.uk/kingsmuseum Museum Lecture Series: Poetic Performances - wax cylinder recordings of 17 January 2012 www.abdn.ac.uk/kingsmuseum indigenous Siberian storytellers from 1901 Museum Lecture Series: Intangible Cultural Heritage in Scotland - 24 January 2012 www.abdn.ac.uk/kingsmuseum preservation, exploitation and development Museum Lecture Series: Exhibiting Scottish Identity -the 1911 Scottish 31 January 2012 www.abdn.ac.uk/kingsmuseum Exhibition of National History, Art and Industry Energy Industries Overview 10 – 12 April 2012 www.abdn.ac.uk/energyoverview

EXCLUSIVE EVENTS FOR ALUMNI For further details visit www.abdn.ac.uk/alumni or call +44 (0)1224 273234

Winter Gathering of the General Council, Aberdeen 3 December 2011 [email protected] Family Christmas event, Aberdeen 3 December 2011 [email protected] Communicating with Confidence, Aberdeen February 2012 [email protected] Alumni gathering, Edinburgh March 2012 [email protected] Baxters Family event April 2012 [email protected] Statutory Meeting of the General Council April/May 2012 [email protected] House of Lords Alumni reception, London 26 April 2012 [email protected]

EXHIBITIONS

Open until January A display of material from the University’s museum collections exploring the artworks 2012, King’s Museum Elements which consider the ‘elements’ within the environment and landscape from a geological perspective. www.abdn.ac.uk/ kingsmuseum James MacKay Hall, A permanent exhibition displaying paintings of Scotland and the Arctic, Inuit sculptures, Images of North King’s Conference and objects relating to life in the Arctic from the University’s collections. Centre

17 VOICE ■ ALUMNI PROFILES

An absolute passion for theatre and culture launched Faith Liddell on a career trajectory that has culminated in one of the most incredible posts in the arts world.

18 ALUMNI NEWS VOICE FAITH LIDDELL

For the last four years the University “Since then I’ve travelled and worked abroad, with the greatest cultural show in the planet, of Aberdeen graduate has been Director of run a Fringe Venue and became Director of our own Edinburgh Festivals,” Faith explains. Festivals Edinburgh - an organisation leading the Edinburgh International Book Festival. “But in August things can feel even more the strategic direction of Edinburgh’s 12 major The experienced director, producer and project hectic. A typical day could involve a joint festivals to sustain the capital’s status as the manager has worked in key strategic and briefing with Scotland’s Cabinet Secretary for world’s leading festival destination. creative roles across theatre, literature, music, Culture and External Affairs, Fiona Hyslop, It’s an impressive - although unsurprising - film and visual arts. taking Brazilian producers to meet festival journey from Faith’s years at Old Aberdeen colleagues, three exhibition openings - in the “The common thread between all of these where she graduated in 1987 with a joint same hour! - and the opportunity to meet John things is the connections I’ve created between honours degree in English and French. Malkovich in person, which I sadly had to artists, organisations, stakeholders and funders. decline, due to previous commitments.” “I’m afraid I spent most of my time doing Edinburgh’s festivals are a powerhouse of ideas, theatre rather than focussing on my studies – one of Scotland’s leading brands, an incredible Amidst the high octane lifestyle, Faith fondly though I did perform in French too!,” laughs force of pride for residents and an epicentre of remembers a slightly less frenetic pace at Faith. pilgrimage for tourists and artists. I couldn’t Aberdeen. have found a better home.” “One of the great things about being in “I did enjoy revising between snoozes at the Aberdeen at the time was that you had The Edinburgh festivals initially employed height of summer in Old College Quad,” to create your own culture and that was Faith to work two days a week tackling what Faith adds. It’s a great university that has a real enormously empowering. We did some great they had identified as a serious challenge - and committed relationship with the city it shows and were committed to putting on a lot maintaining their position as a pre-eminent inhabits.” ■ of Scottish work, something that my course in festival city in the face of competition from Scottish literature really informed too. emerging festival cities around the world. “…This last winter I spent quite some time working with cultural “Now, four years on, our turnover has increased “We put on a great night of Glasgow poet producers and governments in from £30,000 to over £1m per annum and Tom Leonard’s writing and even managed Brazil, India, the US and Canada on our team has grown to eight staff, all working to persuade him to attend. From George our ambitions for 2012…” Buchanan’s Jephthah’s Vow in masks in St directly with our festival colleagues to devise Machar’s Cathedral to What the Butler Saw in and implement major collaborative projects my underwear in Aberdeen Art Centre, it was that develop audiences, deliver growth and help all part of an extended education!” the Festivals remain competitive,” says Faith. After leaving Aberdeen, Faith moved to Could there be a typical day? Edinburgh to study for a postgraduate diploma “It depends on the time of the year. This last in European Languages and Marketing. winter I spent quite some time working with “Almost immediately I began to work in the cultural producers and governments in Brazil, arts, beginning in the bar at the Traverse Theatre India, the US and Canada on our ambitions and working my way up to Edinburgh Festival for 2012, when the greatest sporting event in Fringe Marketing Manager,” says Faith. the world, the London Olympics, coincide

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Alumni Profile: Sheila Mackenzie

War-time student Sheila Mackenzie was reading French and German at the University of Aberdeen when a letter arrived in 1943 summoning her for interview at the Foreign Office.

“I’d never even been over the border before as travel was limited because of difficulties with Herr Hitler,” recalls the 88-year-old, originally from Inverness. She didn’t know it then but Sheila was to join an extraordinary and top-secret band of extremely talented codebreakers now credited with shortening World War Two by at least two years. It was only after the war that the codebreakers really became aware of the significance of their work. “After my interview I received another letter, containing a telephone number, directing me to report to Bletchley,” says Sheila, who had Sheila Lawn (nee Mackenzie) and her husband just completed the second year of her honours Oliver meet HM The Queen at Bletchley Park degree at Aberdeen at the time. “When I got there I had to use the telephone, ring the number and give my name. A voice Bletchley Park was, of course, Britain’s main “We could not speak about what we had done. then said: ‘Miss Mackenzie we are expecting decryption unit, perhaps more widely known We were instructed to forget what we did and you and a car will fetch you’. I still had for cracking the supposedly unbreakable we took that very seriously,” explains Sheila. absolutely no idea what I was going to do.” Enigma codes - the backbone of German “In fact we did not speak to each other about military and intelligence communications. it until some 35 years later when we knew that She didn’t know it then but Sheila the secrecy had been lifted although we didn’t was to join an extraordinary and “I had to sign the Official Secrets Act and really say very much. top-secret band of extremely then I discovered what I was to do,” says talented codebreakers now Sheila, who was among veterans who met the “It was really only when we went back to credited with shortening World Queen as she recently unveiled a memorial at Bletchley 50 years later that we spoke more War Two by at least two years. Bletchley. about it as it brought back memories. “I was given the encoded texts of ‘hand codes’ “You assumed you were doing a great deal which had been intercepted by ‘Y’ listening of useful work and there really were some stations, and which had been sent by German eminent and clever people around but you just Coastal Batteries and Radar Stations based got on with things to the best of your ability,” along the Dutch, Belgian, French and says Sheila. Mediterranean coasts. These texts arrived at After the war Sheila returned to Aberdeen Bletchley by teleprinter or were brought by where she graduated with an MA degree in chaps on motorcycles. General Subjects in 1946. “My job was to decode and translate these “I very much enjoyed my studies in Aberdeen and then put them on a pile on my desk for although you were under a lot of restrictions study elsewhere. I have no idea what that study during the war,” adds Sheila, who together involved.” with Oliver gives talks about Bletchley Park. Everything was so clandestine that no-one “You couldn’t take a walk along the beach discussed their work. because it was mined and if it was a clear night Even when Sheila met her future husband- and the moon was shining it was easy to find your way back to your digs, but there was also a to-be - Oliver Lawn, a first class Cambridge likelihood that we would come under attack. mathematician, who was among the team who helped crack the Enigma code - the couple “Nevertheless we had a good time at kept their counsel. University.” ■

20 ALUMNI NEWS VOICE ALUMNI NEWS

We met twice a month, either in Let’s Get Engaged Making Lifelong Mentor Profile person, or most of the time using – Become an Alumni Connections – the Skype video conferencing Ambassador Career Mentoring facility. We are currently in touch with “It is somewhat of a cliché, but I My mentee was brilliant, over 74,000 alumni, living in 150 wanted to give something back,” accepting advice when countries around the world. says Willie Donald (BSc, 1974) appropriate, challenging when about the University’s new Career it was correct to do so, and the A strong network of Ambassadors result of that laser sharp focus was and Contacts is one of the Mentoring Programme which After a long career in corporate an appointment to the Graduate foundations of our alumni activity, aims to link current students life and now running my Training Programme of a global encouraging links with the with alumni who will share their own Executive Coaching and internet company. Clearly this University worldwide, helping professional experience and Performance Management has been a major achievement for us achieve our strategic aims and expertise. Consultancy I felt that I could the mentee, and naturally I am positioning the University as a The initiative, jointly managed by help young people heading out delighted. The whole exercise was global institution. the Alumni Relations Office and into the working world. also fun, and I’ve also got a new The role of Alumni Ambassador the Careers Service, is designed Working with my mentee was friend whose career development requires a significant level of to help students make contacts in challenging as I quickly learned will be a joy to follow. commitment. Our Ambassadors specific employment areas and to that I was dealing with one Willie Donald (BSc, 1974) assist with many things including provide them with an opportunity focused and ambitious person. organising local events, supporting to enhance their professional local student recruitment activity, skills and employment knowledge creating social networks and outside of their academic study. staying in touch with Alumni in The programme also provides a the area. number of benefits to the mentors David Baxter, (Study Abroad including: ‘06), says: “Not only has being • Contributing to the BRITISH SCIENCE Alumni Ambassador allowed me professional development of FESTIVAL to reconnect with the University, future colleagues it has opened me up to new and exciting opportunities in • Becoming involved with the New York. It has served as a University in a practical role tremendous networking tool that ALUMNI • Enhancing their own has helped me both personally professional development and professionally. I look forward through new skills to continuing to blend Aberdeen REUNION with New York over the next year.” • Sharing the value of their experience If you would like to share your experience and stay engaged Both mentors and mentees WEEKEND with fellow alumni living in your are supported by staff from area, then the role of Alumni the University of Aberdeen Friday 7 - Sunday 9 September 2012 Ambassador or Alumni Contact throughout the four month may be for you. Programme which runs twice As part of the British Science Festival 2012 we would like to invite you back to campus for an For full details about our a year. exclusive Alumni reunion weekend. Ambassador Programme, please The Programme is an exciting see our website: opportunity for alumni to engage For further information please visit the website: www.abdn.ac.uk/alumni or with our current students and www.abdn.ac.uk/alumni-weekend email: [email protected] offer invaluable first-hand advice and guidance. For more information about the Programme and to find out how to apply visit our website: University of Aberdeen Alumni: www.abdn.ac.uk/alumni/ LET’S GET ENGAGED mentoring/

Continued ➭

21 VOICE ■ ➭

Alumni dinner, Hong Alumni Events Kong Round-Up Principal Diamond addressing Cromarty Dolphin Alumni on his recent trip to watching trip Hong Kong.

Graduates heading out into the Moray Firth for the annual Dolphin watching trip, ahead of their tour of the Lighthouse Field station and dinner at nearby Sutor Creek.

Return to The Burn The Burn was gifted in 1948 to Alumni Receptions Goodenough College in London in Boston, New York, Big birthday on the horizon? A by the late Mr and Mrs Herbert Philadelphia and family celebration? Perhaps an Russell in memory of their son, Flavours of Fochabers Washington eagerly-anticipated reunion with James, who was killed in action in former classmates? Or just a quiet Italy in 1944 aged 21. It became weekend away from the bustle of Our alumni were treated Graduates enjoying the a holiday and study centre for the daily grind? to a factory tour, cookery opportunity to network and students, graduates and academic demonstration and tasting reminisce with Professor Bill Whatever the occasion, we all staff, allowing them to take session at the wonderful Baxters Naphy, Chair in History at the know the importance of finding advantage of the 190 acres of park Highland Village. In this picture, University, and Dr Alistair Mair the right venue – and if that venue and woodland on the banks of the Head Chef John gives alumni a at the recent alumni gatherings in conjures up happy memories then River North Esk and the excellent demonstration on how to make the USA. so much the better. accommodation at low cost, subsidised by the Russell legacy. Scallop and Sweet Pea Risotto. Many Aberdeen alumni will have such memories of The Academic ‘away-time’ remains Burn, recalling a gem nestling in the core business, but The Burn is unspoilt Angus countryside, with increasingly appealing to groups all the genteel charm of a mansion and families for other types of house dating back to the 18th breaks. The estate offers fishing, century, but now modernised to beautiful river walks, lawns for provide the comforts we expect family games, as well as tennis and today. croquet. It is ideal for children. The fun of a murder mystery, “Like me, many Aberdeen plentiful home-cooked suppers, graduates will have had a Alumni Reception, sparkling company, long days in tremendous time at The Burn,” Lagos Glasgow Piping Session the fresh air – or perhaps just the enthuses Andrew. “And the great time to chill? It could be time to thing is – it is still very much Aberdeen graduates catching up at a there, refreshed and refurbished, Aberdeen graduates Anne Scott pay a return visit, suggests Andrew recent informal gathering in Lagos. but with its charm and appeal (MA 1985), Tessa Birley (MA Brown, Aberdeen law graduate intact. Alumni and university 2011), Sean O’Rourke (MA and practising QC who now chairs the estate’s management staff can rekindle those memories 2011), try their hands at the committee. and will, I am sure, only have a bagpipes, at a recent informal tremendous time again. The Burn gathering at the National Piping “I’m fortunate to have had a would love to welcome them Centre, Glasgow. long connection with The Burn,” back!” says Andrew. “My father took Medieval History students www.goodenough.ac.uk/the_ there from Glasgow for many burn0.html years. I went as a child and then experienced it officially when a student at Aberdeen. Later, it was a magnificent venue for my 40th birthday and subsequent occasions, all of which involved friends from 1980s Aberdeen.”

22 ALUMNI NEWS VOICE

Appointment of Non-Executive Member General Council LETS GET SOCIAL to the University Court and Member of the Audit Committee The next Statutory Meeting of the General Council will be held Find us on Facebook: The University of Aberdeen is one of the UK’s oldest and most on Saturday 3 December 2011 in www.facebook.com/ distinguished universities and is ranked as one of the Top 150 King’s College Conference Centre AberdeenUniversityAlumni universities in the world. It has circa 16,000 students and annual at 11am. The meeting will be or join our group on Linkedin: turnover in excess of £215million. The University is committed followed by lunch in the Linklater University of Aberdeen - Alumni to further building on its history and international reputation for Rooms at 12.30pm. Relations (Official Page) teaching and research excellence. The Court (the governing body of the In 2012 the General Council University) is seeking to appoint an Independent Governor who can will elect three assessors to the contribute to its achieving that ambition. It is also seeking to appoint University court, influencing the Alumni news: Apology a new member to its Audit Committee. We are committed to equality management of the University at We apologise for incorrectly and diversity and we would welcome applications for these positions the highest level. that reflect the diversity of our University community. printing the notice of the death If more than three nominations of Jonathan Charles Brian Non-Executive Member of Court are received, you will be invited to Foster (MA 59) and John Eric vote for the three new Assessors Andrew Bartholomew (MA 77) Expressions of interest to this position are invited from individuals in a postal ballot. in the previous edition of the with substantial leadership responsibility and experience of board level Voice Magazine. We are sorry governance who are keen to support an internationally competitive For nominations papers, contact for any distress this may have research based university. Interest would be particularly welcome [email protected], or call +44 (0) 1224 273234. caused to the individuals, their at this time from those with experience in Property Management/ family and friends. Construction and applicants able to enhance the diversity of Court. The expected time commitment is up to 15 days per year including attendance (in person or by teleconference) at four meetings of the Court per year. Audit Committee Member Credit Where Applicants for this position should possess recent and relevant experience and an ability and willingness to challenge and probe in it’s Due. areas relating to the efficiency and effectiveness of the University’s risk management, control and governance arrangements. It is not necessary for this experience to have been gained within a financial or audit environment. The expected time commitment is attendance at five meetings of the Committee per year. Both appointments are for 3 years, and are unremunerated (expenses are paid). To express an interest in either role, please send a full CV and supporting statement by: Friday 9 December 2011 to Steve Cannon Secretary to the University King’s College Aberdeen AB24 3 FX The University’s Affinity Credit Card is available to or to any UK resident over the age of 18. Since it became [email protected] available to alumni and friends many years ago it has Informal queries should also be directed to the University Secretary. helped to generate tens of thousands of pounds in Please note that while there is a closing date, we will be keen to commission in support of University projects. We wish receive nominations or expressions of interest after that date for future to thank everyone who has supported the University potential vacancies. in this way. The credit card is issued by MBNA Europe For further information visit: www.abdn.ac.uk/court-recruitment Bank Limited and offers all the features you would expect from a premium service credit card. To apply for this card, please call: 0800 028 2440 and quote 31CVQKJY.

23 TOGETHER WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE

ABERDEEN FUTURE FUND

Through the generous contributions from our alumni community, the Aberdeen Future Fund provides important support to projects that enhance the Aberdeen student experience – today and in the future.

Last year our alumni raised a record-breaking £655,000 Please consider making a gift to the Aberdeen Future for the Aberdeen Future Fund. Fund – donate and make a difference. This generosity has helped to fund: To donate online please go to: • Undergraduate scholarships www.abdn.ac.uk/giving/annualfund • Equipment for a wide range of clubs and societies • Sports bursaries Alternatively, please complete the • The Alumni floor of the new library enclosed donation form. • Medical research at the University Your support is very important to our students. With your help, we would like to increase this investment Thank You. in improving our student experience. If every graduate University of Aberdeen Development Trust, gave £20 we would raise £1.3 million. Registered Charity No. SC002938