News OCTOBER 2013 Volume 20 No. 1

Our ‘Star’ performer A new focus for Research, Innovation and Enterprise

1 Introduction Introduction As a research-intensive University which aims to be among the

top 100 universities in the world, our commitment to research, partnership – we are already leading innovation and enterprise is crucial. the way. Finally, one of the major planks of our work is our international outlook. “ This edition of Cardiff News Professor Jenny Kitzinger from appointment under the Welsh provides a brief insight into this our School of Journalism, Media Government’s flagship Sêr Cymru You’ll meet members of our work and our plans for this key area and Cultural Studies sets out how programme and how our world- European Office who are working of University activity over the next her pioneering work into decision leading Cardiff expert in the genetics alongside academics from across few years. making for people in a vegetative of Alzheimer’s has been brought into Cardiff University to make sure that state is raising greater awareness the heart of Welsh Government to we are positioned as the best and get In this edition you’ll get a snapshot of this emotive issue and helping direct science policy. a fair chance of accessing funding in of how our research is already having inform future practice. the next round, as we look towards a major impact. From improving The University’s Vice-Chancellor, Horizon 2020. labour relations in world ports to You’ll also learn how our growing Professor Colin Riordan also providing the evidence base for a reputation internationally is helping introduces the concept of the Cardiff University has set itself the roll-out of health checks for people attract some of the world’s best Innovation System and sets out what next five years to ensure our research with learning disabilities. minds to Wales - with the first this means for our future direction. continues to have a global impact by tackling the grand challenges of Investing in some key research our time. areas we are already making a real difference and helping to tackle some To do so, we need a set of actions: of the world’s biggest challenges. being highly selective in where we invest and where we choose However, we simply can’t afford to to collaborate at a Wales, UK and rest on our laurels, which is why as international level; invest in major a University we are already looking infrastructure projects; develop to the future to ensure we lead the further our exciting plans for an research agenda in Wales, the UK Innovation System and build on our and internationally. Research Institute’s specialisms.

Whether it’s positioning Cardiff for It’s an exciting agenda and I hope to the next round of European Funding, keep you updated in future editions. setting up new research networks to ” discover new drugs or collaborating Professor Hywel Thomas with partners like Bristol, Bath and Pro Vice-Chancellor for Research, Exeter to deliver more research Innovation and Enterprise income via the emerging GW4

“Investing in some key research areas we are already making a real difference and helping to tackle some of the world’s biggest challenges.”

Professor Hywel Thomas 2 cardiff INNOVATION SYSTEM Cardiff Innovation System

“At Cardiff University we want to create an Innovation System that will drive economic growth in Wales.”

The new concept of an Innovation System is set to form an essential part of the mechanism by which the University will deliver

innovation and enterprise. Here, Vice-Chancellor Professor Colin Professor Colin Riordan Riordan outlines what the concept means in reality.

services and technologies. We can “ What are universities for? computer industry were co-located ideas to the stage where they can help devise new policies that will Everybody knows that universities in California and, supported by become commercial products. work for Wales. exist to educate students and help to government contracts, were a well- create a highly educated workforce. spring of innovation that drove the We need innovation hubs where This is not just about technology. information revolution. start-up companies can get Most people know they’re also affordable space, advice and Creative industries are a major the place where research is done At Cardiff University we want to support so that their companies can growth area here and we’ll want a that ends up in technologies like create an innovation system that will grow and become independent. Creative Industries Hub to help drive smartphones, fuel-efficient cars and drive economic growth in Wales. I These companies might be innovation in that area too. We’ll advanced medical care. don’t mean that we want to try to university spin-outs, graduate need to work in partnership with the imitate what happened in Northern entrepreneurs or local people with Welsh Government, local authorities That means universities are a critical California from the 1940s on. But bright business ideas. We want and other universities so that the part of the innovation process. we can create a next-generation students to be closely involved. whole of Wales is working together. innovation system that will help Innovation is key to prosperity and put Wales at the forefront of new We’ll create a centre for enterprise Make no mistake, Cardiff University improved well being, because it’s developments in technology, education fed from Cardiff is innovating now. We always the invention and adoption of new services, health, social policy, Business School. We want have. But we must be strategic and products, processes, techniques and heritage, the arts and other areas. undergraduates to become used systematic, investing in our Maindy policies which, in mature economies, to innovation as a normal part Road and Heath Park sites to ensure drive growth and future prosperity. To do this we need to create of university life. We want to that we do everything possible to a culture of innovation. Our create a magnet that will attract promote innovation, prosperity and The journey from idea to product is scientists working in key, close- businesses and allow them to grow improved wellbeing for the people of not straightforward though. The right to-market areas like catalysis, and flourish. We want to add a Wales into the future. conditions are needed. medical instruments, energy, social science element, so that we ” aircraft materials and the like, need always know what’s happening in Seminars are being planned for staff Silicon Valley was a success facilities where they can work innovation policy round the world to engage further in the development because universities - especially closely with their counterparts in and understand how the public of the Cardiff Innovation System Stanford University - and the the relevant industries to take lab is going to view new products, during November and December. 3 Research Excellence Shaping science policy Cardiff University’s Professor Julie Williams CBE has been appointed Wales’ new Chief Scientific Adviser.

The Chief Scientific Adviser for causes of Alzheimer’s Disease with Wales (CSAW) is responsible for the excellent team we have in place. providing independent and top quality scientific advice to the First “I know a lot of hard work lies ahead Minister and his administration but Wales and the Welsh Government across a broad spectrum of topics to have already proved we are prepared support decision and policy making. to lead the way,” she added.

“I am honoured and delighted to have Professor Williams took over from been offered this great opportunity Professor John Harries who retired to help shape, develop and champion earlier this year and was responsible the role that science plays in our for developing the Science for society here in Wales and especially Wales strategy and introducing a to follow in the footsteps of Professor number of initiatives to increase John Harries who did so much work Wales’ science capabilities. Professor to support science and scientific Williams will build on this, placing a research in Wales,” said Professor particular emphasis on enhancing the Williams, on taking up her new post. provision of scientific advice in Welsh Government decision making across “The Welsh Government has already all its business areas. proved it takes science seriously and is prepared to construct strategies Vice-Chancellor, Professor Colin which take us in new directions and Riordan said: “Professor Julie I want to play my part in helping that Williams’s career as a scientist continue. at Cardiff University has been “I know a lot of hard work lies ahead but Wales and the Welsh Government have already proved we are prepared to lead the way.”

“Wales has some outstanding remarkable, progressing as she has scientists working at the cutting-edge from Research Fellow to leading of research. Part of my role as Chief Professor in barely more than 15 Scientific Adviser, will be to build years. on this strength and expand scientific excellence in Wales. The Sêr Cymru “Her discovery of genes that initiative provides a real opportunity predispose people to contracting to achieve this by supporting and Alzheimer’s disease was an attracting world-class scientists internationally significant step and by establishing new National forward in our understanding of this Research Networks, in priority areas devastating disease, and I am sure of science and engineering. her appointment as Chief Scientific Adviser will be an inspiration to “One aspect of my new role which many. is particularly close to my heart is the need to ensure every child in “The Welsh Government can be sure Wales knows the great opportunities that it will be receiving the highest which exist for them within the field quality advice from a world-leading of science and that science can be scientist who not only comes from great fun. Wales, but has made her career here. I am delighted for Julie, and “I am also very grateful to Cardiff on behalf of everyone at Cardiff University for allowing me to University, I wish her every success continue the research into the genetic in this new role.” Professor Julie Williams

4 Research Excellence ‘Hidden’ health needs Shaping science policy of adults with learning disabilities untapped

More than 40,000 adults in England impact of repeated health checks. and Wales with learning disabilities are getting their health needs assessed The latter is the most comprehensive and treated as a result of University- study of repeated health checks to date led research. and provides the evidence for health checks to be conducted annually. Research by Professor Michael Kerr and Professor David Felce The research found that hidden from the University’s School of health needs were identified for 51 Medicine led to the roll-out of an per cent of patients with 63 per cent annual programme of health checks having one health need, 25 per cent designed to identify and treat what two needs and more than 12 per cent was previously ‘hidden’ illness. more than two needs.

“Adults with a learning disability Amongst the most serious conditions are a vulnerable group with high uncovered included cancer, dementia, morbidity and substantial health asthma and diabetes. disparities compared to the general population. Difficulties in Professor Kerr added: “Wales was the understanding and communication first country in the world to introduce mean that most cannot adequately comprehensive annual health recognise and report illness,” checking for adults with learning according to Professor Michael Kerr, disabilities as a result of our research who led the research. and key campaigns by the Disability Rights Commission and Mencap. “Pro-active health checking was a potential method of uncovering “This has been followed by Australia hidden health needs and so we and England. In addition there has embarked on research which put it to been considerable usage of the the test,” he added. Cardiff Health Check format in New Zealand. As a result, the Cardiff team devised the Cardiff Health Check format and “Overall there has been sustained, embarked on two seminal studies. widespread behaviour change amongst GPs who have regular The first on the impact of conducting contact with people with learning a health check and the second on the disabilities.” Cardiff model dispels ‘myth’ of the ‘strike prone’ dockworker

A new model which brings employers, discuss key issues for the industry Matched by changes in work methods “However, through our research trade unions and governments together including structural adjustment and and the introduction of advanced we have been able to persuade the to discuss proposed changes to private sector involvement. communication technologies, it was European Community that it could working conditions has helped nail the feared that these changes would be not legislate better labour relations myth that dockworkers are inherently “Despite the widely held belief, in met with widespread strikes and other in ports. Instead, by fostering social ‘strike prone’ and has helped avoid both academic and practitioner circles, forms of industrial action, especially dialogue it could achieve the same strikes and industrial action in the that dock workers are inherently in Europe where plans were drawn up end, and in a more lasting form,” he world’s ports. ‘strike prone’ our research finds that for an ‘open market’ for port services, adds. this is simply not the case,” said including cargo handling. Professor Peter Turnbull from Cardiff Professor Turnbull, who led the As a result, Professor Turnbull was Business School has developed a research. “Initially the plan was to deal with commissioned by the ILO to develop unique model for the International these issues, including the problems new guidelines for social dialogue Labour Organisation (ILO) based on Since the 1980s, port reform has been that typically accompany strikes such in ports – which brings together social dialogue. a key priority of governments around as delayed investment and job losses, governments, employers and workers the world, with the privatisation of through a binding Directive. to jointly shape policies and promote The model brings together employers, port services forming a significant decent working conditions. trade unions and governments to part.

5 News Leading catalysis research

The Cardiff Catalysis Institute (CCI) is a Research Institute for catalysis within the UK that builds upon the current strengths in research at Cardiff. Its Director, Professor Graham Hutchings FRS – himself a research pioneer in gold catalysis – outlines the importance of its work.

Professor Graham Hutchings

“ Catalysis is the centre-point We have established a centre of at Cardiff, building on the large take waste products and turn them of many chemical processes - excellence for catalysis within the number of strengths existing in into useful materials. from the academic research lab UK that builds upon the current catalysis, synthesis, theory and through living systems to the strengths in research. Chemistry surface science. We will look at how to take industrial large-scale reactor. at Cardiff already has excellence ‘waste’ materials such as carbon in heterogeneous catalysis, So what does this mean for our dioxide and use them to make Through a detailed homogeneous catalysis and ability to attract vital research useful materials, with specific understanding and careful use biocatalysis and we bring these funding? focus on cleaning up atmospheric” of catalysis many processes together within a single institute pollutants, water purification for can be made faster, cleaner, so that they can grow and provide Earlier this year, I was delighted re-use, protecting the environment more economical and more the focal point for interdisciplinary that we received a £3M funding and cleaner manufacturing.” sustainable. interactions within Cardiff and boost as part of a major new hub externally with academia and designed to support economic The UK Catalysis Hub, based at Cardiff University has industry. growth, reduce CO2 emissions, the Research Complex at Harwell established the Cardiff Catalysis produce cleaner water and generate (RCaH) in Oxfordshire, will enable Institute (CCI) within the The initial years of the CCI have more sustainable energy. scientists to collaborate on projects, School of Chemistry. gone extremely well, and staff, both share insights, expertise and established and new, are committed The Cardiff team will receive developments; facilitate world-class to the continuing development of £3.19M to lead the environmental research and attract new funding a centre of excellence in catalysis element of the research – to help streams. Researchers will work at 6 Research Excellence

Leading catalysis research Professor Jenny Kitzinger’s research is focused on people’s experiences of having patients in a long-term coma and their thoughts on what the patient themselves might have wanted in this situation. Here, she outlines how her research focus was shaped by her own personal experience.

“ Modern medicine has become very good at saving the body. It is less good at saving or restoring the brain. Many of us will end our lives having long lost the mental capacity to make sense of the world around us and having become unable to make decisions for ourselves.

When thinking about ‘loss of It was my own family experience have established a new cross- mental capacity’ many people’s however that made me turn my university research centre. first thought is ‘dementia’. attention to severe brain injury. In However, my research focuses 2009 one of my sisters, Polly, was Our findings have already been on people who are in a prolonged left in a prolonged coma after a car used to inform guidelines for care coma, a ‘vegetative’ state (with crash. This was a tragedy that took homes and medical professionals no awareness) or in a minimally the whole family on a steep learning and to create decision-support conscious state (with only minimal curve and confronted me with the tools for clinicians and and intermittent awareness). fact that the media image of ‘coma’ is information leaflets for families. very far from reality. It has also informed cultural In these cases the loss of mental representations - not just media capacity is sudden (rather than It also made me realize the need for coverage but even a detective a gradual decline). It may result not just communication research in novel! from, for example, a severe blow to this area but for a concerted inter- the head falling off a horse, ski-ing, disciplinary initiative. I also served on the Nuffield or simply driving home from work. Bioethics Council working party I went on to collaborate with on novel interventions into the Such injuries often affect healthy practitioners in neurological care brain and am on the editorial young people – people who to research how long-term services board of a Royal College of have rarely discussed explicitly could be improved and worked with Physician’s working party of what they would want in such a a colleague at Brunel University the vegetative state (the new circumstance. Once they have lost to explore the use of a novel brain guidelines will be published in capacity, decisions about treatment scanning technology on vegetative December). In the coming months are the responsibility of their patients. In 2011 I also organized a Celia and I will be delivering clinicians (with input from their Wellcome Trust funded symposium on a collaboration with Oxford families). with leading figures in the field to University to translate the examine what future research was research into web based support different universities, and the How we treat such patients needed. for families (Thanks to an ESRC RCaH will offer training and raises profound challenges that knowledge exchange grant). research. are paradigmatic of 21st century My sister Celia Kitzinger, a Professor medicine. in the Sociology Department at Stretching my established ways of Catalysis science is vital for the University of York, also had a working even further we are now many areas of the UK economy. The reason I started doing this long-standing career in health related also developing collaborations This investment will provide a research is a combination of the research – and she too has turned her with artists - there is already a set focal point for the UK’s leading professional and the personal. focus to this topic. Between us we of sonnets based on our research! expertise in this area, helping My research career, spanning the have now interviewed more than 50 scientists further develop their last 25 years, has focused on a family members with a relative in a My portfolio of research about skills and undertake cutting edge wide range of health and science vegetative or minimally conscious serious brain injury has been research to drive sustainable issues, often with an emphasis on state. developed from the outset in growth. examining emerging ethical and dialogue with practitioners, policy social debates. In the 1980s, for We have shared this data with makers and communities of From a Cardiff point of view – it example, I worked around HIV/ a network of colleagues from service users. means we’re positioned firmly at AIDS, and in the 1990s I examined across both universities (including the heart of this exciting area of controversies about human specialists in law, philosophy, For me the ‘impact agenda’ is not research. genetics. medicine, history and literature) and a distortion or distraction from ” what I do, it is at its heart. ” 7 Research Excellence Sustainable Places Research Institute

The University’s Sustainable Places researchers the Institute is moving Research Institute is making new towards developing solutions Professor Terry Marsden connections in sustainability research rather than simply tackling and progressing sustainability science. existing problems, this is being It is finding pragmatic, policy-led, done on the specific requirements local and place-based solutions for of individual places. individual cities, regional landscapes and nations. Links have been built both here in the UK and further afield, Founded in 2010, the Institute research is progressing in a range operates across the three Colleges of locations around the world of Cardiff University developing including: Canada, China, Brazil, interdisciplinary research to take Borneo, Finland and Germany to a wholly place based approach. name but a few. Bringing together more than 100

Key developments at Research highlights: 14 catchments to study the role of • The Institute hosts the first the Institute include: biodiversity and natural resources in Cardiff International Conference • The Institute hosted a key sustaining livelihoods in upland areas on Sustainable Place making. • Theoretical and conceptual conference highlighting Welsh It focused on the problem of research linking different expertise in ecosystem services. • The Diversity of Upland Rivers for sustainable place-making; and disciplines The interdisciplinary nature of the Ecosystem Service Sustainability how integrated thinking can Institute team was vital in making project (DURESS) received £3 be developed and applied in • Integrated methodologies the links between biodiversity, million for new interdisciplinary different places and spaces so as for assessing impacts of ecosystem services and social river research to investigate the to adapt systems of production policy, market and civic wellbeing. The conference, role of biodiversity in sustaining and consumption actions; and the development organised by the Biosciences, ecosystem services. The consortium of more integrated and Environment and Agriculture project is headed by Dr Isabelle • Institute researchers join the multidimensional approaches Alliance (BEAA) between Bangor Durance, senior research fellow who Food Security Land Research for assessing sustainable and Aberystwyth Universities spearheaded the proposal Alliance, a partnership between pathways of development and the Wales Environment the Universities of Bath, Bristol, Research Hub (WERH) explored • The Sustainable Food City Cardiff, Exeter and Rothamsted • Development of a series of the research strengths of the St Conference brought together Research. The alliance brings longitudinal place-based David’s Day Group of Universities speakers from across the UK, to together a range of disciplines laboratories, like Cardiff City (Aberystwyth, Bangor, Cardiff, look at how Cardiff could implement from biosciences and agricultural Region, in which to conduct Glamorgan and Swansea), a Food Charter to celebrate and sciences to economics and social multilayered applications of showcasing and highlighting promote a vibrant, diverse and sciences, to help tackle the world sustainability research opportunities for collaboration sustainable food culture which will food security crisis between the Universities and fit with Cardiff’s broader aim to • International and local policy makers become a ‘One Planet City’ • The Institute launches a new collaborations and annual Sustainability Science partnerships with academic • The Institute held a series of • The lesser known star of the marine Summer School, a joint venture institutions, including Bath, workshops, forming the basis of environment, seagrass receives a with the University Graduate Bristol and Exeter Universities a new ‘place’ based approach to boost following support from the College, to provide a unique and and place based organisations academic research. Gathering Darwin Initiative. The award will high quality research training such as the Brecon Beacons knowledge and views on issues fund a project, led by Professor forum for interdisciplinary National Park authority, and of concern to people in their local Susan Baker and Dr Leanne doctoral and postdoctoral the Canal and Rivers Trust area will help to guide the future Cullen-Unsworth that will focus researchers in the field of direction of research linked to that on seagrasses and their role in sustainability science and • The extension grant to place sustaining marine environments place-making take forward the ESRC funded Centre for Business • The first Landscape Observatory • Professor Terry Marsden is • Dr Roberta Sonnino (Principal Relationships, Accountability, to foster socio-ecological research appointed to the Policy and Investigator), Dr Ana Moragues Sustainability and Society, on whole river catchments is Advisory Panel of Rural Alliances, Faus and Professor Terry (BRASS) agenda in the areas created. With 5 year support from an exciting new £10M initiative for Marsden (co-applicants) are of: mobilities, food security, The Esmee Fairburn Foundation, rural communities which promote awarded a new EU grant on food sustainable communities and the Llyn Brianne Observatory in best practice between different EU security. The four year project ecosystem services. the Welsh uplands, will be the first regions. Helping to further establish will assess the impact of drivers to assemble more than 3 decades the role of the Institute in sustainable of change on Europe’s food and of social and ecological data on place making across Europe nutrition security.

8 Research Excellence A new approach to tackling cancer

Some of the world’s leading cancer experts descended on South Wales to hear how a new cancer stem cell approach could better target cancer.

Hosted by Sir Terry Matthews, the “The Research Institute will investigate international three-day ‘Targeting Cancer Conference’ was held at the the possibility that therapies aimed at home of the 2010 Ryder Cup, The cancer stem cells alone will offer a Celtic Manor Resort in Newport. better success rate.” The conference was dedicated to the theme of Cancer Stem Cells where the Director of the University’s Professor Clarke said: “Cancer European Cancer Stem Cell Research stem cells account for only a small Institute (ECSRCI) Professor Alan proportion of cells in a tumour. Clarke, unveiled the Institute’s new However, they could be crucial to the approach to tackling cancer. way tumours form, grow and spread. Sharing the team’s latest findings, Professor Clarke outlined how the “The Research Institute will University’s cancer stem cell concept investigate the possibility that might be used to target cancer, and in therapies aimed at cancer stem cells the long-term improve the prognosis alone will offer a better success rate for patients and develop new cancer for cancer sufferers and will, we hope, therapies. markedly improve survival rates.” Professor Alan Clarke

‘Switch-flipping’ stem cell mechanism could lead to new breast cancer therapies

The discovery of a pathway that helps stem cells grow into different types of breast tissue by experts from the University’s European in normal cells, changing the Cancer Stem Cell Research Institute could lead the way to new number parallel basal cells and perpendicular luminal cells that treatments for aggressive breast cancer. were produced.

The pathway allows stem cells to The mammary epithelium consists called the NOTCH pathway. They Dr Smalley believes that some flip their orientation of cell division, of two main types of cells: luminal found that Aurora A was able to aggressive breast cancers have switching their offspring to form two epithelial cells, which line the ducts control the direction of cell division re-activated this mechanism to distinct tissues found in the breast. and form the milk-secreting cells of in the breast by triggering the control the orientation of cancer cell Some aggressive breast cancers the alveoli, and basal myoepithelial NOTCH signalling pathway. division, and that its discovery could use this mechanism to control the cells, which squeeze milk along the lead to new treatments for breast orientation of cancer cell division, ducts during lactation. The researchers found that for basal cancer: so it could be a promising target for stem cells to maintain populations of future drug development. Basal stem cells are important during basal and luminal cells, cell divisions “If we can block this mechanism early breast development because in the basal layer of the breast needed in breast cancer tumours, this Dr Matt Smalley from the European they generate the different cell to be parallel, which occurred when could cause cells to try to divide in Cancer Stem Cell Research Institute, types in the mammary epithelium, NOTCH signalling was blocked. multiple directions at the same time, said: “Current theories suggest that through the expression of an enzyme But they discovered that basal cells resulting in catastrophic disruption there may be similarities between the called Aurora A. In this study, the can also contribute to the luminal of genetic material and cell death. behaviour of normal adult stem cells researchers investigated how the layer. Aurora A activated NOTCH and cancer cells. enzyme Aurora A controls the signalling in the dividing basal cells, “Our study suggests that drugs formation of new cells in the breast. which caused their orientation to which can target this signalling “By better understanding the biology switch from parallel to perpendicular. mechanism could cause these cells of adult stem cells scientists can Dr Smalley’s team identified for the to literally tear themselves apart, better understand the behaviour of first time a link between Aurora A The researchers were able to leading to better treatments for cancer cells and identify new targets and a signalling pathway known to chemically control the signalling aggressive breast cancer in the for therapy.” regulate the behaviour of stem cells, produced by the NOTCH pathway future,” he added. 9 Research Excellence Taking our research message to Europe

Some of the University’s leading experts in neuroscience and collaborations going forward to brain-related research are heading to Brussels in a bid to position Horizon 2020 and the next round of research funding. Cardiff as one of Europe’s leading institutions in the field and help “More importantly we see events like build new national and international collaborations. this as an opportunity to kick-start a ‘neurosciences’ sub–cluster as part of the overall health cluster as a means Professor Jeremy Hall from the University’s latest expert recruit, challenge presented by age-related of maximising Cardiff’s role in future University’s Neuroscience and Professor Yves Barde. neurodegenerative diseases,” he adds. funding rounds.” Mental Health Research Institute will host a seminar at Wales House in “In addition to UK and international He will be joined by the Institute’s The seminar will focus Brussels in November. funding, teams from Cardiff Director, Professor Mike Owen have already successfully bid for and other key members of the team on the themes of: “Brain and brain-related research and secured European funding including Professor Adrian Harwood. stem cells and animal is one of Cardiff’s key research including the JPND programme – a strengths,” according to Professor transnational initiative that aims Professor Hall adds: “The seminar is models. Hall who will be joined by the to address the growing societal a clear opportunity to build potential

Institute secures £5.2M to help solve the mystery of mental illness

behaviour by harnessing recent advances in neurosciences and stem cell research,” he added.

Cardiff has assembled a team of scientists with complementary expertise in psychiatry and neuroscience from across the Schools of Medicine, Biosciences and Psychology.

By developing a novel approach - combining human, animal and cellular experiments for the first Professor Mike Owen time - the Cardiff team hopes to gain new understanding on how specific genetic risk factors impact on the Experts from across the University’s University neuroscientists, stem “We now know that disorders like brain and behaviour. Neuroscience and Mental Health cell biologists, psychologists and schizophrenia, attention deficit Research Institute have secured their psychiatrists are set to break down hyperactivity disorder share some of Dr John Williams, Head of largest ever funding in a bid to tackle scientific barriers in a bid to solve the the same genetic risk factors. Neuroscience and Mental Health at mental illness. mystery of mental illness and help the Wellcome Trust, said: “Although develop new treatments. “They also point to an important role mental health disorders affect as A team from the University’s in these disorders for abnormalities many as one in four people, we’ve Neuroscience and Mental Health “Recent findings in genetics have in synapses – the structures through made relatively little progress in our Research Institute have secured a advanced our understanding of which brain cells communicate with understanding of these diseases and £5.2M Wellcome Trust Strategic mental illness and major psychiatric each other. how to treat them in several decades. Award to help combine the latest disorders in important new ways,” findings in genetics, brain imaging, according to Professor Mike Owen, “The next step in understanding “This project will help us to start to animal models and stem cells who leads the research. these disorders is to take the genetic really get to grips with the genetic findings and trace them into how and biological problems underlying the brain functions and influences the conditions.” 10 Research Excellence University lands ‘Star’ stem cell researcher A world-leading neurobiologist has joined the University as the first appointment under the Welsh Government’s £50M flagship science initiative.

Professor Yves Barde, from “Professor Barde is responsible for Switzerland, is renowned for his many important discoveries and research into the way proteins in the fundamental concepts in the field brain work and their role in illnesses of neurobiology. In addition to his such as depression. groundbreaking work on BDNF and neurotrophins, Yves has discovered He was appointed under the Welsh many important developmental Government’s five-year Sêr Cymru principles and molecular mechanisms (Stars of Wales) project to expand in the nervous system that were universities’ research capabilities in iconoclastic and controversial the fields of life sciences, advanced when first proposed, but are now engineering, and low carbon energy mainstream. and the environment. “To this day, Yves continues to Professor Barde received make major advances in the field of international acclaim in 1989 with neuroscience, such as his recent work the discovery of a gene which creates on stem cell biology in the nervous a protein - brain derived neurotrophic system.” factor (BDNF) - which is involved in a number of brain processes Economy and Science Minister, including memory. Edwina Hart, said: “Professor Barde brings a wealth of experience and is He has explored the role BDNF plays a world renowned innovator in the in healthy brain function along with field of neurobiology. He will lead dysfunction. a strong team at Cardiff University and their work will be a great boost Recently his team at the University to life sciences and health research of Basel focused on how some drugs in Wales. can increase BDNF levels in specific areas of the brain. “A strong science research capability is vital to improving our economic The research helped in the wellbeing and securing a prosperous, development of new drugs, including healthy and sustainable future for the first oral treatment of multiple Wales. sclerosis. “We already have a lot to be proud Professor Ole Petersen FRS, Director of in science and innovation in Wales of the School of Biosciences, said: but the Sêr Cymru programme will “This is a very exciting moment help us build on that to develop a in the history of the School of dynamic and strong base in Wales.” Biosciences. Not only have we been able to attract a world class superstar to come to the School of Biosciences but we also have the prospect of seeing some superior science being conducted here. The synergy with Professor Alun Davies FRS is particularly promising.

Professor Yves Barde 11 NEWS Cardiff leads £14M Welsh drug discovery fund New drugs to fight a range of diseases could be discovered and developed in Wales with a £14M cash injection.

The National Research Network Evans, to support new and growing (NRN) in Life Sciences and Health life science businesses in Wales, and is part of wider plans to concentrate, also plans to open a Life Science connect and boost the Life Sciences Hub at Cardiff Bay by March 2014, sector in Wales. which I am currently leading on,” he added. Led by Cardiff University Professors Chris McGuigan and Malcolm The NRN is backed by £7.3M from Mason the NRN also brings together the Welsh Government’s Sêr Cymru expertise in drug development from programme , which will be matched Aberystwyth, Bangor and Swansea by industry, academia and charities Universities. to create a fund worth £14M.

“The establishment of this major This will allow the four Welsh pan-Wales initiative, with significant universities to support more than funding from Welsh Government 100 PhD students and researchers represents a serious commitment over the next five years and attract by the Minister to health and life and retain the world’s leading sciences,” according to the Chair experts to oversee their pioneering and Scientific Director of the NRN, work. Professor Chris McGuigan. Minister for Economy and Science, “This commitment comes on top of Edwina Hart, said: “I am delighted the recent establishment by Welsh to see the launch of this new life Government of the Welsh Life sciences research network. We have Sciences Fund, chaired by Sir Chris identified life sciences as one of our

Professor Chris McGuigan

12 NEWS Cardiff leads £14M Welsh Smarter European Union spending Cardiff leads consortium to help countries spend drug discovery fund EU funds more strategically

University experts who advise The EU Smart Specialisation “Working alongside the Platform regional governments on making Platform has been set-up by the we will assist regions and Member the most effective use of money European Commission to provide States in developing, implementing aimed at reducing regional guidance and support to policy and reviewing regional smart disparities in income, wealth and makers across Europe. specialisation strategies, and help opportunities are set to lead a regions identify high-value added key sectors for economic growth major new EU research project Dr Healy adds: “As a consortium, activities which offer the best and I look forward to seeing the under the Seventh Framework SmartSpec will contribute to and chances of strengthening their results of the Network’s activities Programme (FP7). support the work of the Platform, competitiveness. in bringing to pre-clinical stage and helping to develop successful clinical trial new and exciting drug Professor Kevin Morgan and policies across Europe. Members “A smart specialisation strategy compounds. Dr Adrian Healy from the of the consortium have not only needs to be built on a sound University’s School of Planning analysed and contributed to the analysis of regional assets and “The Network will also engage and Geography will co-ordinate evolution of regional policy since technology. It should also include with industry to bring economic the SmartSpec consortium. it started, but include some of the an analysis of potential partners benefits and put Wales on the map leading contributors on the concept in other regions and avoid internationally for drug discovery. The consortium has two of Smart Specialisation.” unnecessary duplication. Smart major aims. To explore the specialisation needs to be based “I am sure the Network will also scope for and the barriers to Smart Specialisation is regarded on a strong partnership between take advantage of the appointment Smart Specialisation, the new by the European Commission as businesses, public entities and of Professor Yves Barde as the generation of regional innovation one of the ten conditions for well- knowledge institutions – such Cardiff University Sêr Cymru policies in the EU and provide performing national and regional partnerships are recognised as Research Chair in Neurobiology, guidance and practical support Governments in the EU. essential for success. a research field in which our new to regional governments which Chief Scientific Advisor Professor plan to design and new regional It is proposed that a Smart “By coordinating this major Julie Williams also has a great innovation strategies. Specialisation Strategy will become project, Cardiff is well placed to interest. part of future Structural Funds play a leading role in the research, In the past year they have advised programmes with countries able to policy and practice of the EU “I look forward to seeing the governments on the design of show how they plan to spend the regional innovation policy for the University and Professors regional innovation policy in a money so it responds to economic next round of European funding,” McGuigan and Mason deliver their number of countries – including and societal challenges, helps said Professor Morgan. vision for the Network.” Wales, England, Northern Ireland, concentrate resources on innovation Italy and Spain. Cardiff University and development priorities and SmartSpec is funded through the is gaining a reputation as a centre stimulate private investment. EU’s 7th Framework Programme of expertise in emerging concepts for Research and Technological of regional innovation. Development (FP7).

“Despite some 20 years of regional innovation policy “Working alongside the Platform we will assist experience in Europe, it’s fair to say that this policy is poorly regions and Member States in developing, understood and unevenly implementing and reviewing regional Smart implemented, with the result that it has failed to produce Specialisation Strategies.” the desired effects of reducing regional disparities,” according to Professor Morgan, who co- “Smart specialisation is a new It will provide evidence-based ordinates the consortium. innovation policy concept designed practical advice on spending to promote the efficient and effective European funding in the most “In recognition of this, the EU is use of public investment in research. effective and strategic way by looking to regional governments Its goal is to boost regional innovation strengthening regional innovation to develop Smart Specialisation in order to achieve economic growth capacity and help the regions to Strategies which help better and prosperity, by enabling regions prioritise investment choices to target resources. To support this, to focus on their strengths. Smart promote efficient and effective use they have set-up the EU Smart specialisation understands that of public investment. Specialisation Platform to guide spreading investment too thinly across them through the next round of several frontier technology fields risks funding,” he adds. limiting the impact in any one area.

13 Meet The team Meet the Team: The European Office Ensuring Cardiff gets a fair share – and more – of the next round of European research funding is the primary objective of the University’s European Office.

From left to right: Rebecca Blackwell, European Officer, Keith Sexton, European Officer, Nick Bodycombe, European Office Manager, Chris Matthews, European Officer – Structural Funds, Siân Jones, Administrative Officer

Headed by Nick Bodycombe the the team. As one pot of European resulted in over £38M being awarded identify relevant calls and help create team includes four European Officers funding closes – another one is to the University during the last as many opportunities as possible for and one Administrative Officer. It sits already just around the corner. funding round. Eevi Laukkanen, Cardiff to access funding,” he adds. within the Research Development who is currently on secondment group in the University’s wider “In the latest round, known as to the UK Research Office in However, the team’s work does not Research, Innovation and Enterprise Framework Programme Seven (FP7), Brussels, worked tirelessly with our stop at the University campus. Services Department, and is on the University has so far secured academic colleagues to bring in this hand to help steer Cardiff academics funding for approaching 150 projects, funding. In recent months we have As Nick explains, it’s also about through the European funding maze. with a number of these in the final been delighted to welcome Chris making sure that Cardiff is positioned stages of contract negotiation. Once Matthews into the team as we prepare as a key player in Europe and “As a team we oversee the whole all these are finalised it will mean to move into the new 2014-20 developing innovative ways to place process for Cardiff academics over £50M of new research funding Structural Funds programmes. us among key collaborators in order who want to access vital European has come to Cardiff over the last to maximise opportunities. research funding,” said Nick. seven years. “Also, the team is busy looking ahead and planning for the next round of The team is taking a leading role “From acting as a named contact for “This has seen Cardiff lead research European Framework funding, better in organisations like Vision 2020, the European Commission, we work in cutting-edge life sciences, helping known as Horizon 2020.“ which brings together some of with academics and research staff to to tackle illnesses like Parkinson’s the UK and Europe’s leading develop project ideas - right through Disease, to working alongside The team is keen to encourage as universities, research organisations to the delivery of the research project English Heritage to help construct many academics as possible to get and companies, and is engaging with at the other end. We’re also on hand much more precise chronologies for in touch and help break down the the European teams across the GW4 throughout the whole process. To the Neolithic period in Europe. perception that European research universities of Bristol, Bath and that end work very closely with our funding is solely focused on STEM Exeter. colleague Cerys Phillips and her team “The European Office also plays a subject areas. in the European Research Grants significant role in bringing in funding Nick adds: “The University’s new team”, he adds. from the European Union’s Structural “The team here covers all areas of strategic direction sets us the task Funds programme in Wales and University research and we are keen of becoming one of the world’s It would seem there’s going to be through pan-European schemes. to ensure that the arts, humanities and top 100 universities. Ensuring we very little let-up for the work of “Projects like LCRI and Seren have social sciences are catered for as we work alongside some of the UK and 14 Cardiff people Cardiff People - Dr Amanda Jones Meet the Team: The European Office Following an undergraduate degree at the University of Liverpool in Applied Biochemistry, I came to Cardiff University to do a PhD in corneal wound healing the School of Optometry and Vision Sciences. In January 2004, I joined the Research and Commercial Office as a Research Support Officer in the College

Since 2004 my role has evolved from looking after the research development of one School to becoming the Research Development lead for the College of Biomedical and Life Sciences. The day job is also complemented with my new role - GW4 Programme Manager for Cardiff.

Dead or alive - who would be your three ideal dinners guests and why? Stephen Fry would be first on the list; one of my all-time heroes who appears to know everything about everything. Next would Michael Mcintyre for sheer comedy value; however I’m not sure he could sit still for three courses! And finally Roald Dahl, my favourite author as child and someone who has led a fascinating life.

Dr Amanda Jones Describe yourself in three words Laughs very loudly (I think my Europe’s best is just one of the ways work colleagues would agree!). Who and what inspires you If you could banish one thing we can maximise our impact and most? into room 101, what would help reach this goal.” My family, especially my it be? In Desert Island Discs style, grandfather, who taught me some Queues, especially the one in the With some €70BN available over the if you were cast away alone valuable lessons in life. I also Post Office. next seven years of the Horizon 2020 on a desert island which admired the way he was always programme, Cardiff is already well three songs would you take smartly dressed even when cleaning placed to be ahead of the game. with you? the house. Who has been the biggest I love all kinds of music so influence on you during your “Making the most of Horizon 2020 narrowing it down to three is time at the University? for Cardiff University is essential tough. However, it would have What makes you smile? I would have to say my PhD – essential for our international to be Snow Patrol, How to Play My kids, especially the things they supervisor, who at the time I standing, our world rankings Dead as it reminds me of some say with their honest look at the thought was being mean but only and attracting the best staff and highly amusing dive trips with the world. had my best interests at heart. students from the UK, Europe and University dive club. Next, would internationally. be Foo Fighters, Learn to Fly, especially when played loudly Tweet or not to Tweet? If you were Vice-Chancellor “In purely financial terms it’s a major in the car. And third will have to Not to Tweet. My life isn’t so for the day what would you source of research income – but more remain a secret as it will be the exciting that I have to tell everyone do? than that, it’s a real opportunity for first dance atmy wedding! what I’m doing every 10 minutes! I would have one day a week the University’s best researchers to where we all go paperless to lead cutting-edge and innovative meetings. The amount of paper research that will have a real impact What makes you get out of bed we use is huge, and most of it gets and help us answer some of the in the morning? shredded following meetings. world’s key economic, social and My children, even on weekend. environmental problems,” Nick added.

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Vice Chancellor, Cardiff News Professor Colin Riordan hosted the first Editor: Karen O’Shea, Cardiff ‘Away Day’ for University, 2-4, Park Grove, key members Cardiff, CF10 3PA. of the GW4 – a new joint collaboration ISSN 13355-3127, Vol 20 No.1 with Bath, Bristol and Exeter Cardiff News is a bi-monthly Universities publication. Copy deadline for next edition is 25 November 2013 for publication in December Major boost for next generation 2013. of arts & humanities researchers The Editor reserves the right to edit contributions received. Whilst care is taken to ensure The South, West and Wales The Consortium’s successful bid the accuracy of information, this Consortium will offer postgraduate for funding was praised for its cannot be guaranteed. studentships and training across “consistent and convincing strategy the full range of the AHRC’s for the provision of a very high Views expressed in ‘Cardiff disciplines, with a strong emphasis quality training environment for News’do not necessarily on collaboration between the postgraduates.” reflect those of the University. members of the consortium and 19 Items of interest relating to partner organisations including BBC, the University and its staff are Cadw, Welsh National Opera, CyMal For details of welcome and should be sent to: (Museums, Archives and Libraries the University’s Communications and Wales); National Library of Wales, International Relations Division. Cardiff University has jointly won National Museum of Wales; Royal postgraduate Open Day substantial arts and humanities Commission on the Ancient and 27 November 2014 Tel: 029 2087 5596 funding to support postgraduate Historical Monuments of Wales and Twitter: @cardiffuninews study into our cultural world. the National Trust. visit: Email: [email protected] www.cardiff.ac.uk/ Online: www.cardiff.ac.uk/news/ The South, West and Wales Professor George, Boyne, Pro postgraduate newsletter.html Consortium, in which Cardiff Vice-Chancellor College of Arts, Cardiff University is a registered University is joined with seven other Humanities & Social Sciences @cardiffuniPG charity, no. 1136855 universities – Aberystwyth, Bath, said: “I am delighted to see Cardiff Bath Spa, Bristol, Exeter, Reading involved in the new Consortium. and Southampton, has been awarded This scheme will be integral to the £14.2M funding from the Arts training and development of the next Stop the Press: and Humanities Research Council generation of arts and humanities (AHRC) over the next five years to doctoral students and Cardiff is well Cardiff News has changed deliver postgraduate supervision, placed to use its significant research training and skills development from expertise to nurture this new talent.” 2014. In line with the University’s It doesn’t mean we’re stopping The funding, which equates to 200 commitment to sustainability printing altogether – instead, The Consortium is one of 11 new new studentships, will allow for Cardiff News is becoming an anyone who wants to receive a Doctoral Training Partnerships innovative postgraduate support, on-line publication. Features like printed copy will need to tell us. (DTPs) and seven Centres for including the development of Meet the Team and Cardiff People To make sure you receive Doctoral Training (CDTs) to have broader skills such as partnership will continue - it just means you Cardiff News in the format you been awarded a total of £164M working and language skills, and won’t automatically receive a prefer, please e-mail the Public funding from the AHRC. experience in working outside printed copy. Relations Team at: academia through industry and [email protected]. international placements.

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