This is our Annual Review 2013
1 Contents
Front cover image: Brona Jackson, Forewords 4-7 BA (Hons) Dance graduate, now part-time lecturer at Magee Revolutionary Research and Enterprising Innovation 8-15 Building on Success 16-19 Accessible, Digital, Flexible 20-25 Teaching and Learning Excellence 26-31 International Affairs 32-35 Developing Connections 36-39 Sporting Life 40-43 People Power 44-51 Governance 52 Contacts 53 Ulster in Action 54-55
2 3 Forewords Forewords
Foreword
to open doors and foster We now look forward to Ireland Centre for Economic learning opportunity. Our creating a campus of the Policy, within the Ulster colleagues at the Department future, and a hub of creativity Business School. At the heart for Employment and Learning and innovation. It will provide a of business, commerce and share and support these dynamic learning and teaching industry, Ulster’s partnerships ambitions, enabling us to environment, matching and and collaborations continue to build on the success of reflecting the aspirations of our innovate, influence and inform. existing access programmes students, parents, teachers, and to create innovative academics and researchers. Over the next year, we new projects. can expect to experience The plans for the Jordanstown ongoing economic recovery, Responding to new ways campus were also unveiled, in which we will continue to learn and the continued to include investment in a to play our part, and which impact of technology on second sports hall, retention can only enhance the future Gerry Mallon, Chair of Council teaching and learning, Ulster of a range of University prospects for our skilled and has invested in flexible, digital facilities on the site, and ambitious graduates. and virtual learning. Our proposals for a vibrant urban In the context of up new possibilities for those relationships with schools and village residential development I look forward to working ever-changing times for the who will follow their own path community groups ensure that on the site of the main building with my Council colleagues, higher education sector, through Ulster. The University we stay close to the emerging and car park. the Vice-Chancellor and and against the sustained of Ulster Fund, renamed in needs and aspirations of staff in the year ahead, and economic challenges of 2013, 2013, makes it possible to future students. Investment in the learning with all those who share the Ulster continued to develop respond to challenge, to and teaching environment commitment to equipping with confidence and resilience reward excellence and to 2013 marked a milestone in across each campus in assured graduates in an – enabling the University’s encourage enterprise. our ambitious development 2013 makes possible increasingly confident ambitions, and those of our plans. Our vision for a the most rewarding student Northern Ireland, and beyond. students to be realised. Just as Northern Ireland progressive Belfast city and staff experience, recognises the potential that campus, fit for the future with transformational Neither challenges nor lies in an outward looking, of higher education, came learning spaces creating changes have diminished dynamic approach to overseas into sharper focus when the best outcomes for staff Ulster’s focus and the opportunity, the University planning permission for the and students. Gerry Mallon University remains responsive strives to build upon a world- main campus buildings was Chair of Council and adaptable, meeting wide, world-class network of granted in the spring of 2013. Ulster’s commitment to head-on those demands and partnerships. Whether through By the end of the year, the contributing to economic expectations and contributing academic and research twin cranes that rise above recovery and to sustainable to Northern Ireland, both collaborations, or through this emerging development progress for business and locally and on a global stage. providing opportunity for site marked the first major industry spans computing, our students to spend time construction work in the city digital technologies, The dedication of our staff abroad, our international reach centre since 2008 and they engineering, construction as to making a sustained, is thriving. herald the emergence of well as business services, meaningful impact endures. a revitalised northern edge leadership and management. The interest and generosity of Ulster’s unrivalled commitment of the city. 2013 also saw the our alumni continues to open to widening access continues establishment of the Northern
4 5 Forewords Forewords
Foreword
Disability hosted at Magee. global licensing of numerous deliver our current corporate Colleagues and students technologies and the plan and as we look forward based at the campus showed 150th Knowledge Transfer to the next exciting phase in that Ulster is at the heart of Partnership milestone ensured the University’s development. cultural talent and diversity, that 2013 was another year and central to the creative of entrepreneurial vision and industries that are fast success at Ulster. becoming a unique strength for Northern Ireland. The steady stream of esteemed visitors to Ulster Professor Richard Barnett The University’s reputation demonstrates the high regard Vice-Chancellor for research excellence thrives in which we are held. As upon the transfer of academic the year came to a close, insight and rigorous inquiry we welcomed Her Royal Professor Richard Barnett, Vice-Chancellor into meaningful outcomes for Highness, The Princess society. The impact of our Royal to the Jordanstown 15 Research Institutes campus to mark the 40th Just as the ambitions of our of faculties and disciplines In a year in which continues to influence across anniversary of the introduction students do not stand still, and physical enhancements Derry~Londonderry took a diverse range of disciplines. of occupational therapy neither do those of the staff to each campus – offering centre stage as the inaugural at the University. As the and management at Ulster. extensive choice and City of Culture 2013, we The £11.5million investment only provider of degree level The role and value of higher opportunity in dynamic shared in the celebratory in the Centre for Stratified occupational therapy in education in the economy has learning environments. mood of the city, marking a Medicine places Ulster at Northern Ireland, the occasion never been more vital. quarter of a century of creative the forefront of pioneering was an opportunity to The progress of plans for arts at Magee. During the research into chronic reflect on the value of the At Ulster, we are well placed to the Belfast city campus took year we welcomed actor degenerative diseases. expertise of staff and meet those needs, continually a significant step forward Sir Ian McKellen to the city Almost £36million secured in students to individuals ensuring that teaching in 2013. The transformed to deliver the seventh annual research grants in 2013 will and families throughout anticipates a changing campus will provide an Chancellor’s lecture, support the difference that Northern Ireland across four economy, and that learning inspirational and accessible as he was presented we can make in disciplines decades of learning and at Ulster equips our students student experience in the with an honorary as diverse as bioengineering, professional practice. to reach their full potential heart of the city, enable doctorate by Chancellor functional brain mapping and and enhance their future staff and students to foster Dr James Nesbitt. Our the arts and humanities. From longstanding centres of career prospects. Increasingly new local relationships and creative credentials were also excellence to emerging new Ulster is a learning hub where partnerships, and contribute in the spotlight as composer Continued focus on opportunities, our ongoing students, graduates, alumni, to the regeneration of a Professor Brian Irvine delivered connecting enterprising achievements and contribution local and global partners, previously under-developed the University Convocation people, ideas and leadership reflect the energy and all contribute to ambitious part of the city. In the months Lecture at the Magee campus. to unlock the potential enthusiasm of a truly engaged outcomes. and years ahead, this exciting of innovation, achieved Council, a committed, talented journey will entirely reflect the The value of the arts for all unprecedented outcomes in staff and an energetic student 2013 brought both new scale of Ulster’s ambition and was explored through the the past year. Outstanding body. It is my privilege to work developments in teaching our social, cultural and international conference levels of management alongside my colleagues and programmes across a range economic contribution. on Music, Technology and training, spin-out companies, students as we continue to
6 7 Revolutionary Research and Enterprising Innovation Revolutionary Research and Enterprising Innovation
Revolutionary Research
Professor Tony Bjourson heads Ulster’s 15 Research Institutes and affiliated research centres proved the University’s £11.5million Centre for Stratified Medicine in 2013 that the University is an institution where knowledge is generated, challenged and tested, as well as being taught. It has built an exceptionally strong reputation for internationally excellent research and innovation, helped by the seamless transfer of ideas from the research lab and lecture hall to the marketplace. Ulster recognises that research feeds innovation, innovation feeds productivity and that Professor Jim McLaughlin with Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster at the launch of the Connected Health Innovation Centre productivity fuels social, cultural and economic growth.
In 2013 Ulster’s research Also in October, the University Earlier in the year, the teams were awarded 237 became a partner in a University announced that the 237 £36m grants totalling almost £36 £7million UK-wide research first functional brain mapping million. The University initiative that could lead facility on the island of Ireland spends £1million per week on to better understanding of was to be established at Research grants Research income research and plays a major the social, environmental and the Magee campus. The awarded awarded role in the local economy as health issues affecting people’s £5.3million multidisciplinary a linchpin of investment and lives in Northern Ireland. project will be carried out economic growth. Funding by the Intelligent Systems awards were made to each Ulster is partnering with the Research Centre at the 150th 200th of Ulster’s six faculties and NI Statistics and Research University, in conjunction across all four campuses, Agency and Queen’s with the Biomedical Sciences highlighting research University Belfast to set Research Institute, the Knowledge Transfer Cross-border excellence throughout the up the Northern Ireland Institute of Nursing and Health Partnership FUSION project University, with major research Administrative Data Research Research at the University milestone awards going to medical Centre in Belfast. The project and C-TRIC. technology, bioengineering is funded by the Economic and energy efficiency. and Social Research Council At Jordanstown, 2013 saw with additional funding for the opening of the £7million In October 2013, Ulster health-related research from Connected Health Innovation opened an £11.5million the Health and Social Care Centre (CHIC). The Centre is Centre for Stratified Medicine Research and Development supported by a £5million R&D which puts the University Division of the Public grant from Invest Northern at the forefront of medical Health Agency. Ireland with an additional research into chronic degenerative diseases.
8 9 Revolutionary Research and Enterprising Innovation Revolutionary Research and Enterprising Innovation
£11.5m £600k Centre for Stratified Awarded to the School Medicine, putting of Engineering from the the University at the Engineering and Physical forefront of medical Sciences Research research into chronic Council (EPSRC) degenerative diseases Research In Action The School of Engineering digester, which will use at Jordanstown received a solar energy over a sustained Cancer Care major grant of £600,000 from period of time to generate gas Researchers from the the Engineering and Physical from domestic organic waste University’s Biomedical Sciences Research Council for small scale applications Sciences Research Institute (EPSRC) to explore the such as barbeques or were awarded a £214,000 possibility of developing heating greenhouses. grant by Prostate Cancer UK a portable, compact device to investigate a new drug that could immediately Dr Mervyn Smyth, Reader Dr Jenny Worthington combination to help reduce diagnose pathogens such from the School of the Built the spread of prostate cancer as hospital superbugs. Environment has been to other parts of the body. working on the project with Professor Paul Maguire from lecturers Dr Jayanta Mondol £1.8million investment by award recognised Ulster’s Assessment Exercise which Dr Jenny Worthington, the University’s Engineering and Mark Anderson and Dr a consortium of leading commitment to improving the last took place in 2008 – is research team leader at Ulster, Research Institute is exploring Aggelos Zacharopoulos, a technology companies. working conditions and career conducted nationally to assess said the study aims to improve approaches to the challenge Research Fellow in the Centre development of its research the quality of UK research the treatment of advanced of instant or almost instant for Sustainable Technologies. Connected health is an staff which ultimately sustains and to inform the selective prostate cancer, for which pathogen detection. emerging model for healthcare the quantity, quality and distribution of public funds for there are currently very few Literary Legacy delivery that uses technology impact of Ulster’s research research by the four UK higher treatments available. The three-year research Professor Pól Ó Dochartaigh to provide healthcare remotely. for the benefit of society and education funding bodies. project, in collaboration with and Professor Elmer Kennedy- CHIC offers an ideal platform the economy. Her research explores a new the University of Glasgow, may Andrews were awarded a for showcasing the University’s In 2013, the University entered drug combination therapy also transform the detection £408,376 grant from the Arts pioneering connected health The European Commission’s 502 staff in the Research which aims to specifically of pathogenic warfare agents and Humanities Research research and provides HR Excellence in Research Excellence Framework and target aggressive prostate such as anthrax. Council to undertake research Northern Ireland with a award acknowledges higher submitted 1,720 outputs tumours to control their which will contextualise world-class facility, within education institutions’ and 63 research impact case growth and, most importantly, Harnessing Energy representations of Jews in Irish which high-quality R&D, alignment with the principles studies. The REF expert reduce the number of tumours In 2013, University researchers literature for the first time. networking and intellectual of the European Charter for panel assessments of which form in other areas began working on a more property generation can be Researchers and Code of research quality will be of the body. effective way to turn discarded The project will create an carried out on connected Conduct for their recruitment. conducted during 2014 and food waste into gas for online database of all texts health applications. the results will be published Battling Bacteria use in homes across and writers relevant to the Research Excellence in December 2014. In the A 2013 research project could Northern Ireland. theme, while a conference EC Recognition In November, Ulster made interim, research activity at revolutionise the way airborne in 2016 will bring scholars The University was one of just its submission to the 2014 Ulster will continue unabated. bacteria are identified and Working alongside researchers together to analyse 11 UK universities to attain Research Excellence the speed at which they can from the Tata Energy and aspects of the topic in depth. the European Commission’s Framework (REF). This be detected. Resource Institute (TERI) in In conjunction with the HR Excellence in Research periodic review – the India, a team from the School conference, an exhibition will Award during 2013. The successor to the Research of the Built Environment be organised at the Belfast plans to create an anaerobic campus, and subsequently
10 11 Revolutionary Research and Enterprising Innovation Revolutionary Research and Enterprising Innovation
in Dublin at the Royal Irish to make the school better, Their findings were published Academy in collaboration with while four out of five children in the prestigious Journal of Enterprising the Irish-Jewish Museum. believed it was easy to give Strategic Marketing in 2013. their views. Innovation Child’s Play The research highlights Research undertaken by More than 3,700 P7 pupils that a lack of funding can ARK (the Northern Ireland across Northern Ireland be attributed to insufficient Social and Political Archive), responded to the online survey marketing activities. Sports a collaboration between the which included questions organisations need to secure University and QUB, indicates designed to assess children’s their survival, not only on The University of Ulster is an innovation powerhouse, a knowledge hub that the old adage that perceptions of how seriously a short-term but also on a ‘children should be seen their views were taken by long-term basis. They need around which businesses can thrive, connecting smart people and but not heard’ is becoming adults in schools and within to generate and develop smart ideas. 2013 was an outstanding year for innovation at Ulster, as a thing of the past in the wider community. relevant resources such as Northern Ireland. time, money and knowledge the University recorded its highest-ever level of support for business, Marketing Support (often via volunteers), which providing almost 1,000 innovative solutions to companies, more than Findings from the Kids’ Life Many small sports clubs will is collectively understood as 50,000 days of management training, creating five new spin-outs and and Times survey indicated struggle to survive if they don’t fundraising, in order to tackle that around three out of four adopt the right marketing their main problems, the licensing numerous technologies to businesses across the world. children who participated in tools, according to research researchers found. the 2013 survey felt that their carried out by the Ulster views were sought and were Business School’s Dr Damian taken seriously in their school, Gallagher in partnership with on issues including what they Professor Audrey Gilmore Transferring Knowledge known as an associate. do in the classroom and how and PhD student Alina Stolz. Ulster works with thousands The objective of a KTP is 1,000 of businesses each year to facilitate the transfer of innovative solutions to transfer University knowledge and the spread of to companies knowledge and expertise technical and business skills through a range of methods through innovative projects. such as events, consultancy, innovation support KTPs offer businesses/ 50,000 programmes, technology organisations the opportunity days of transfer and licensing. to access resources, research and development management training Ulster is a key provider and expertise that may not of Knowledge Transfer be available in-house. Partnerships (KTPs) and in That expertise has helped 2013 reached a significant a range of companies from milestone having undertaken engineering to biomedical 150 projects – putting the science; from textiles to University in the top 10 of environmental technologies; knowledge providers out of from ICT to retail. the 141 UK-wide providers.
A KTP is a three-way partnership between a business, academic institution such as a University, and a recently qualified graduate
12 13 Revolutionary Research and Enterprising Innovation Revolutionary Research and Enterprising Innovation
Ulster spin-out company HidInImage
FUSION of Knowledge for the creative industries. The team of Ulster academics Ulster is also a key provider Ulster is the lead partner based at the Intelligent in Northern Ireland for for Honeycomb – Creative Systems Research Centre other industry/university Works, a trans-national at the Magee campus, collaboration programmes support programme aimed has developed digital such as InterTradeIreland’s at maximising the economic watermarking technology FUSION programme potential of the burgeoning to ensure the security of and Invest Northern Ireland creative industries sector. transmitted data through and Enterprise Ireland’s hidden software messages. Innovation Voucher The programme is supported programmes. by the EU’s INTERREG IVA In 2013, the University Programme, managed by announced plans to increase In 2013 the University the Special EU Programmes its investment in SiSaf Ltd, celebrated a major milestone Body (SEUPB) and is being one of Northern Ireland’s most after helping 200 companies delivered in partnership innovative start-up bio-tech to become more innovative with Dundalk Institute of companies. The news came through FUSION, a hugely Technology, The Nerve as the growing company successful cross-border Centre, Derry~Londonderry, secured new funding in the knowledge transfer project. Letterkenny Institute of region of £500,000 to carry Technology and Creative out clinical trials of its new Clonarn Clover, a free range Skillset and their teams in drug delivery system. egg producing and packing Northern Ireland and Scotland. company in Co Cavan, SiSaf, which is located in became the 200th company Spin-out Success the Northern Ireland Science Spin-out companies Jobs created from created in the last these spin-out from the Republic of Ireland Over the past five years Ulster Park and the Irish Innovation five years companies to partner with the University has supported the creation of Center, San Jose, Silicon in the programme. 23 spin-out companies which Valley, California, is using the employ 230 staff. During investment to complete the FUSION is the first all-Ireland 2013, one Ulster spin-out clinical trials of its innovative initiative to facilitate knowledge company, HidInImage Ltd, drug carrier system, SiSafe®. and technology transfer by led by Ulster academic and The first application being linking companies in one CEO Dr Joan Condell secured trialled involves an application jurisdiction with research significant additional funding to cure acne more efficiently, institutions in another. to commercialise the and without any adverse side company’s research into effects. The innovative drug Creative Innovation digital watermarking. delivery formulation could In 2013 the University radically change the efficacy announced that it will and safety of current acne spearhead a £3.5million skin treatments. EU support programme
14 15 Building on Success Building on Success
£250m £6.2m Building Belfast city campus New sports hall at on Success development Jordanstown campus
2013 was a year of renewal and innovation across the University’s four campuses, as construction projects went on site, future plans were unveiled, and new facilities came on stream.
Greater Belfast educational environment the main phase of the The University’s plan to create that will stimulate and inspire Belfast city campus. an inspirational, ultramodern students and staff alike. campus at the heart of Belfast It will contribute to At Jordanstown, the University gained momentum in economic, social and unveiled its vision for the future the spring of 2013, when cultural development. It will of the suburban campus, planning permission for also provide an opportunity including a £6.2million the main campus buildings to transform a previously second sports hall adjacent was granted. neglected part of the city to the existing £13million centre, building on the High Performance Centre. Soon after, demolition work success and energy began at the former Interpoint, of the neighbouring The plans also propose that Playboard and York House Cathedral Quarter. the existing main building sites to make way for the £250 and car park be replaced by million Belfast city campus The first phase of construction an urban village residential development, designed by for the Belfast city campus development – enhancing the Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios. began in late 2013 on a site area, and creating an exciting, The new campus is scheduled immediately adjoining the vibrant place to live. for completion in 2018, and existing campus building. will see the relocation of A range of existing University teaching and research activity Once this phase is complete facilities will be retained on the from Jordanstown into the city in 2015, the University will Jordanstown site, including centre location. move staff and students out the Dalriada Student Village, of the Orpheus building (the Dalriada House, the Institute The Belfast city campus former Belfast Co-Op) paving of Fire Safety Engineering will create an innovative the way for construction of Research and Technology,
16 17 Building on Success Building on Success
‘The Belfast city campus will provide an opportunity to transform a previously neglected part of the city centre, building on the success and energy of the neighbouring Cathedral Quarter’
Plan for residential development at Jordanstown Magee library
and the University’s extensive The campus also became As facilities in the South technologies in a purpose- range of sports pitches and home to the University’s Buildings on the campus built, energy-efficient secure indoor training facilities. Centre for Renewable Energy reached the end of their environment. The University has been Engineering, bringing a economic life, improvement part of the Jordanstown new range of engineering works began to upgrade the Next steps landscape for over 40 years, programmes to the campus. hospitality and leisure facilities Improvement work at and while its operations will be on campus and to relocate Coleraine will continue in scaled back as the majority As the year closed, proposals student-focused services – 2014, as the space formerly of campus students and to build a new teaching including the Students’ Union, occupied by the Senior staff relocate to Belfast, the block on the Magee campus plus Student Support and the Common Room is upgraded retention of these important moved forward, as architects International Office – into the to provide corporate meeting University facilities on the Samuel Stevenson & Sons main campus building. and teaching facilities. site means the University will were appointed to design continue to be an important a new teaching building to The main catering facility Construction of a new part of Jordanstown in the be constructed close to the at Coleraine was upgraded £5.1million teaching block years to come. existing campus library. providing a fresh, attractive on the campus, adjacent and modern social space for to existing teaching Magee Coleraine staff and students. accommodation, is also Refurbishment of Magee’s The focus at Coleraine is on scheduled to go on The Diamond Hall, Coleraine Minor Hall and the adjacent making improvements to 2013 also saw the completion site in early 2014. The lecture theatre was completed the physical estate in order of a new, centralised University improvements form part in 2013. Upgrade projects also to enhance the campus data centre at Coleraine. of a larger long-term delivered improvements to experience for its 5,500 The new data centre replaces £18million investment teaching spaces on campus, students. older legacy facilities at programme to upgrade and a new videoconferencing Jordanstown and Coleraine and renew facilities suite was opened. with modern ICT data storage at Coleraine.
18 19 Accessible, Digital, Flexible Accessible, Digital, Flexible
The new directorate of Access, Digital and Distributed Learning was constituted during Accessible, 2013, opening up greater complementarity Digital, Flexible for three strategic central functions for the University: Widening Access and Participation, Digital Learning and Continuing Education. A commitment to widening access lies at the heart of Ulster’s educational mission, and in 2013, a new Access Agreement was approved by the Department for Employment and Learning, identifying outreach projects, continuing education, bursaries and new funding opportunities for Ulster students.
Widening Access Digital Learning education has seen In this agreement the Digital Learning earns its strong growth. University will re-invest around place at the heart of learning 25% of additional tuition fee and teaching. The Office 2013 also saw the income in widening access for Digital Learning was announcement of the Centre and participation bursaries, announced during 2013, for Flexible and Continuing on-course support, outreach with the aim of moving digital Education, with a mission and engagement activity, and educational technology into to take forward – with projects such as Step-Up. the mainstream of University all University faculties – learning. The University’s a strategic and planned 25% £200k The University is creating a virtual learning environment approach to flexible learning Of additional tuition Widening Access and new Widening Access and has grown to become opportunities. Growth fee income will be Participation Fund to help Participation Fund of £200K to the biggest system in the continues in this area with over re-invested in widening qualifying students with help qualifying students with University – a virtual learning 1,500 enrolments on modular access and participation on-course costs on-course costs. The fund hub with 44million page views programmes. Educational will help with travel and other in 2013 alone. During 2013 attainment for several hundred costs of work experience, there were as many community learners was placements, internships and students registered on recognised at the ‘Celebration international exchanges. distance learning courses of Community Achievement’ as there were physically in October 2013. The new The objective is to lower based at the Belfast campus. Centre will provide a powerful barriers to new life identity to the University’s experiences and create Flexible and external communities, more accessible, social Continuing Education businesses and public learning environments for Ulster’s commitment to sector stakeholders. The Ulster students. workforce and community new Access Agreement
20 21 Accessible, Digital, Flexible Accessible, Digital, Flexible
‘Ulster is committed to expanding continuing education opportunities for disadvantaged communities’
Dr Brian Murphy (left) and Dr Shane Crothers shared Step-Up student Shannon Downey in the excitement of CultureTECH Junior
commits the University to For people who have left The University, Seagate, the Step-Up To Science Inspire To Aspire for Educational Partnerships further expanding continuing care or have previously spent European Centre for Nuclear Step-Up to Science Students with disabilities can and International Affairs. education opportunities for time in care and are thinking Research, W5 and Intel is a long-standing educational face many challenges in their disadvantaged communities. of applying to Ulster, the were among the 40 partnership with priority educational career, but access I’M HAPPY University has put in place organisations taking part. schools in the North West to the University of Ulster is At Coleraine, the University Highlights a financial and personal and in Belfast. 2013 not among them. began work on a £360,000 There are a wealth of school support structure to ensure Tutoring In Schools saw the mainstreaming widening access project and pupil engagement they get the maximum benefit In 2013, 141 schools from of the programme within Ulster’s Inspire to Aspire to engage with some projects and activities from their studies at Ulster. across Northern Ireland took the University’s Access was launched in 2013. The of the Borough’s most designed to give potential part in Ulster’s Tutoring in Agreement. outreach programme is disadvantaged communities. Ulster students the confidence CultureTECH Junior Schools (TiS) programme. targeted at young people Funded by the Department to seize the opportunities Ulster’s Centre for Widening This initiative placed 211 The programme serves from special schools and for Social Development, the higher education offers. Access and Participation was Ulster students in primary, as an introduction to provides information for I’M HAPPY project brings the Below, we profile just some a partner in CultureTECH secondary or special needs the higher education their parents and advocates University into partnership of them: Junior, a three-day science, schools to work alongside environment and raises pupils’ about university life and with communities in Coleraine technology, engineering, arts teachers and pupils on aspirations, expectations opportunities. Ulster can Churchland (Killowen and Tick The Box and maths (STEAM) event educational projects. and academic performance. support disabled students in Heights) and Coleraine East The Tick the Box campaign held in The Venue, The range of school many ways as they pursue (Ballysally and Millburn) to was established to encourage Derry~Londonderry. projects spanned digital In 2013, 140 pupils graduated their academic studies. raise aspirations and build applicants from a fostering imaging, literacy, numeracy, from the Step-Up programme community confidence and or social care background Over 5,000 primary and programming and the – and over 1,500 pupils have Disability issues form a core capability through participation to access additional support post-primary school pupils Irish language. graduated since its inception part of Ulster’s commitment to in computer-based activities while studying at Ulster simply got hands-on experience in 2000. widening access to university, such as app development. by ticking a box on their UCAS with exhibits, challenges according to Professor Anne application form. and experiments during Moran, Pro-Vice-Chancellor CultureTECH Junior.
22 23 Accessible, Digital, Flexible Accessible, Digital, Flexible
Research assistant and mentor Carrie-Lyn Kane (Coleraine) with Nelson McCausland MLA, Minister for Social Development and Professor Richard Barnett, Vice-Chancellor at the launch of the I’M HAPPY project
The I’M HAPPY project will be like to study computing Mulrone, community provide a significant skills at university. engagement manager who boost to the North West, looks after Science Shop making it an increasingly Science Shop projects, and Belfast School attractive proposition The Science Shop offers all of Art academic Louise for prospective STEM Ulster students an opportunity O’Boyle, secured funds to based industries. to undertake a project with a work with two schools in community or voluntary group North Belfast on a Science Promoting STEM across Northern Ireland. Shop project entitled To Sixth-Formers ‘A Peaceful Christmas’. The ‘Widening Access In 2013, 160 Ulster By Introducing Programming students completed 95 in Schools’ project at projects for Science Shop In partnership with PIPS the University’s Magee partner organisations. Charity, pupils from Little campus completed its Science Shop activities Flower Girls’ School and third year during 2013 covered a wide range Belfast Boys Model School with both the number of disciplines including created designs for Christmas of schools and pupils architecture, communications, cards suitable for people who involved increasing year social policy, geography, had recently been bereaved. on year. business and management, law, environmental health The six winning designs The project was designed and computing. were printed and sold by the to help Year 14 pupils with schools and the charity to the transition from school In one project, which took raise much-needed funds. to higher education – by giving place in the run-up to them a taste of what it would Christmas 2013, Claire
24 25 Teaching and Learning Excellence Teaching and Learning Excellence
Teaching and Learning Excellence
The University’s learning and teaching activity embraces not only the fostering of creativity in curriculum design and delivery, but also the recruitment of students, the quality of their educational experience and the provision of career skills that maximise their employability after graduation.
A new Learning and • to provide transformative, National Student Survey Teaching Strategy was high quality learning The University improved endorsed by the University experiences through the its performance in several in 2013, following a six-month promotion of meaningful survey elements and achieved engagement process called staff/student partnerships an overall higher student ‘The Big Conversation’, which that engender a shared satisfaction rating of 88%, 3% ensured that the views of responsibility higher than our benchmark academic staff, professional (85%) in the 2013 National support staff, employers and • to enhance Ulster’s role Student Survey. This was the students were reflected in as a sectoral leader for ninth year of the survey, which the strategy. students’ employability covers all publicly-funded as an integral part of the higher education institutions in The strategic vision is one whole student experience. England, Wales and Northern of empowering learners Ireland, as well as most of to excel in professional life The strategy had been those in Scotland. through transformative higher formulated in the context of a education, and will be realised higher education environment These improvements are through three strategic aims: experiencing ongoing in line with the focus of turbulence and far-reaching, the previous Learning and • to provide appropriate unprecedented change. Its Teaching Strategy, which learning opportunities which aim is to better position the aimed to achieve and secure are flexible, responsive to, University to be more resilient continuous improvement in and inclusive of the needs and adaptable in this changing key aspects of provision, of students, the professions, learning landscape. including teaching and industry and the wider assessment and feedback. community This focus will be maintained
26 27 Teaching and Learning Excellence Teaching and Learning Excellence
Just six months after In a new development, the and evidence of student graduation, over 87% of all first parents’ evening was engagement in activities Ulster leavers were working, held at the University, bringing taken outside their studying or a combination this important stakeholder programme of study. of both. group on campus to give them Ulster’s new EDGE Awards insight into life at Ulster, and are designed to enhance The University’s Department to see what the University can students’ employment of Employability and Marketing offer their children – our future prospects though enabling was awarded Matrix students. The event was them to engage in a wide accreditation, the UK’s compèred by UTV’s range of activities to enhance quality standard for careers Paul Clark. their career prospects – advisory services – showing future employers a prerequisite for membership Over 350 people attended that they are committed to of the Association of Graduate the event at Jordanstown, developing their personal Careers Advisory Services, where they engaged with skills, giving Ulster graduates (AGCAS) the professional staff and students, received an ‘EDGE’ in their career. body for UK University advice, and were able to tour Careers Services. The campus facilities. Dr Justin Quinn, Director of the University’s new Centre for Renewable Energy Engineering, Department also received the which launched its first four degree programmes in 2013 prestigious AGCAS Employer Giving Ulster Students Engagement Award as An EDGE recognition of the quality of the 2013 saw the first Ulster successful engagement with students graduate with a in the new Teaching and programmes contains: BEng Employability employers – a key stakeholder special award that provides Learning Strategy, and the and MEng in Manufacturing and Marketing group for the University. official recognition National Student Survey Engineering, and BEng Equipping students for future results will be an important and MEng in Renewables success in their professional measure the University will use Engineering. careers is a vital part of the to gauge its effectiveness. University’s work. University The new developments faculties work closely New Programmes in engineering at Magee with the Department of Studying at the University will provide well-qualified Employability and Marketing of Ulster remains a very graduates who are familiar on engagement, outreach and popular choice, with the with the techniques and needs employability opportunities University remaining in the top of the engineering industry. such as the Professional 15 UK universities for UCAS Experience Programme, applications. Each year, the New programmes were also Open Days, and on student University receives around introduced in subjects as marketing campaigns. 35,000 applications for places varied as computational on full-time undergraduate intelligence, food science and Over the year, Employability degree programmes. nutrition, business, computing and Marketing recorded higher and mathematics, levels of student, graduate 2013 saw four new commercial law, physical and employer engagement, engineering degrees activity, English literature, combined with increased introduced at the Magee sport and exercise medicine, levels of satisfaction with the campus. Delivered at the business economics, and in services it provides. newly-established Centre neutraceuticals, functional EDGE Award winners Stephen Kells (second left) from Stewartstown and John Paul for Renewable Energy foods and supplements. McCloskey from Craigbane, pictured with Professor Carol Curran, Dean, Faculty of Life Engineering, the suite of and Health Sciences and Dr Sharon Milner, employability development manager (right)
28 29 Teaching and Learning Excellence Teaching and Learning Excellence
Paul Clark compèring the parents’ evening held at the University
School and College Placement Employer Engagement of the Year In 2013, there were over 150 In May, Employment and engagement visits to schools Learning Minister Dr Stephen and colleges across Northern Farry MLA joined leaders of Ireland and the Republic of local and national enterprises Ireland, reaching out to an on campus at the University’s estimated 30,000 pupils fifth Placement Employer of with information about the the Year awards. University, and encouragement to study at Ulster. The gala event recognised the support and commitment of The Employability and the many employers who offer Marketing team promoted high-quality work placements study opportunities at Ulster to Ulster students. at 12 UCAS recruitment fairs in Great Britain. 75,000 Senior officers from the potential students attended University and leading industry the events at Birmingham, representatives presented Bristol, Durham, East awards to winners in the Midlands, Exeter, Manchester, competition, which attracted Sheffield and Tyneside. more than 160 nominations.
30 31 International Affairs International Affairs
Ulster’s world-wide network of educational partnerships continued International to grow in 2013, as did the numbers of students embracing the Affairs increasing opportunities to spend time abroad as part of their studies. Ulster now has over 2,500 international students registered on full-time and part-time undergraduate and postgraduate courses. These students come from over 80 countries in the world, spanning North America, the EU, Africa, the Middle East and Asia-Pacific.
China This partnership will build opportunity for young Emiratis During a visit to China in April close links between Ulster’s to study for roles in the by a senior management Artificial Intelligence and country’s future as a world- delegation from the University, Applications Research Group class sporting destination. new partnership agreements at the Computer Science International students Countries represented were signed between Ulster Research Institute (CSRI) The sports management registered for full-time spanning North America, and five Chinese institutions: and the Intelligent Control degree builds on the and part-time courses the EU, Africa, the Middle East China University of Development Centre (ICDC) in reputation Ulster has at the University East and Asia-Pacific Science & Technology; Southwest Jiaotong University. established in the Arabian Liaoning Provincial College peninsula through its nursing of Communications; the Middle East programmes in Saudi Arabia, University of Electronic The University’s work in and through the work of the Science & Technology of the Middle East intensified Ulster Sports Academy. China; Shenyang Ligong in 2013 with the launch of University; and Shenyang a sports management degree In Saudi Arabia, the Jianzhu University. course in the United Arab University’s work in delivering Emirates (UAE). nursing education continued Later in the year, a partnership into its seventh year. The agreement was signed with The establishment of a partnership signed in 2006 the respected Southwest BSc (Hons) Applied Sport with SAAD Nursing and Allied Jiaotong University to broaden Management programme by Health Science College trains co-operation and intensify the University – to be female nurses to BSc Hons collaboration in academic and delivered in partnership standard, and also offers research-related activities. with the Higher Colleges of a Graduate Certificate in Technology (HCT) in Abu Nursing Practice. Dhabi – provides a unique
32 33 International Affairs International Affairs
Kyaw Thu Hein, from Myanmar, has taken up a prestigious Chevening Scholarship to study for the LLM in Human Rights and Transitional Law at the University’s Magee campus
Confucius Institute Stormont Showcase With research and The Confucius Institute at As Northern Ireland was development partnerships the University evolved further gearing up for the G8 summit in countries and regions in 2013 as it launched the first in June 2013, a showcase across the world including, for eight Confucius Classroom event at Stormont highlighted example, India, China, Malawi, Hubs in Northern Ireland. the work of the University Uganda, Mozambique, in the field of international Seychelles and Sri Lanka, Held in Stormont, the launch development. the University continues to was attended by five NI be at the forefront of building Assembly Ministers. Senior politicians, policy partnerships with academic makers and representatives institutions, businesses Peter Robinson, First Minister of international NGOs were and governments around of Northern Ireland welcomed in attendance to see at first the world. the establishment of the hand the depth and scale Internationalisation and bring their new knowledge a prerequisite for continued Confucius Classroom Hubs of the work carried out by Ulster’s current back home. participation in the new in Northern Ireland and the University in this crucially Internationalisation Strategy ERASMUS+ programme commended the work of important arena. (2012-2016) has as a strategic 2013 was the second year to facilitate partnership and both the University of Ulster priority the growth of outward of the programme, and study opportunities across and the eight schools. The Stormont event, hosted student mobility – and there represented a three-fold the whole European higher by the University and The are now over 430 Ulster increase in the number of education community. The first eight Confucius Coalition of Aid Development students taking part in a range Brazilian students taking up Classroom Hub Schools are: Agencies, focused on best of outward mobility projects study opportunities at Ulster Rosin McEvoy, Head Aquinas Grammar School, practice projects in the field that can take them as far in biomedical sciences, of International Student Belfast; of international development afield as India, China, the architecture, computing Experience at Ulster, said Grosvenor Grammar School, currently being undertaken USA, as well as to Europe, and engineering. that the new ERASMUS+ Belfast; in Northern Ireland. through initiatives such as programme offers enormous Lumen Christi College, the European Commission’s Africa scope for Ulster students Derry~Londonderry; ERASMUS programme. The University’s award-winning to enhance their education St Columb’s College, partnership with international and boost their employability Derry~Londonderry; Brazil charity Habitat for Humanity and skills, and for University Bangor Academy; During the year, the University continued, with 18 students staff to build transnational Millburn Primary School, welcomed 22 students from spending up to a month in partnerships and networks Coleraine; Brazil as part of the ‘Science Ethiopia, working on the throughout Europe. Downshire School, Without Borders’ programme. construction of new homes. Carrickfergus; and South West College, ‘Science Without Borders’ is Erasmus Enniskillen/Omagh/ a Brazilian government-funded In 2013, the University Ebun Oladele from Nigeria and A Confucius Institute event at Botanic Dungannon. Shannon Martin from the USA met Primary School, Belfast initiative to encourage their secured the renewal of its Ulster’s Chancellor, Dr James Nesbitt, students to study abroad, Erasmus Charter. This is at a University reception for international students
34 35 Developing Connections Developing Connections
Developing Connections
In today’s ever-changing higher education landscape, Ulster refuses to stand still. The University is committed to adapting and evolving to ensure that Ulster plays its part in building a prosperous, inclusive, self-reliant and confident Northern Ireland with much to offer the wider world.
Maya Frost
Outstanding Alumni This annual award is The inaugural Barnett in 2012 and offers a range areas of the institution. Over 150,000 people made to a graduate of the Scholarship in Pharmaceutical of scholarships, bursaries In 2013, nine students throughout the world are University in recognition of Sciences was presented to and awards to recognise and were recognised for their proud to call themselves outstanding achievement. Maya Frost from Letterkenny reward achievement, promote academic prowess, alumni of the University of Co Donegal. The scholarship, student innovation and leadership skills and Ulster. The network grows Scholarships and Awards available to students taking creativity and provide help for commitment to career annually and is an incredibly The inaugural University the MSc in Pharmaceutical students who need additional progression as part rich and vibrant resource. of Ulster Scholarships and Sciences within the School of financial support. of the Santander Ulster is very proud of the Awards ceremony was held Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Scholarship programme. achievements of its graduates in December 2013 to present Sciences, was established During 2013, the Fund was and we know they are the awards made possible with a £100,000 gift from supported by a range of Honouring the making tremendous impact in through the generosity of Norbrook Laboratories. fundraising initiatives including Peacemakers business and society today. alumni and friends of Ulster two student-led telethons The University announced as well as donations to the The scholarship was and two appeal letters. Over its intention to establish the In 2013, Gavin Campbell, University of Ulster Fund. named in honour of the 400 alumni made gifts to the John Hume and Thomas P. Director of Engineering Vice-Chancellor, Professor Fund, making it possible for O’Neill Chair in Peace in at Bombardier Aerospace The event recognised students Richard Barnett, at the the University to present 25 2012 and has, since then, Belfast, received the from all four campuses. personal request of awards at the ceremony. been working to win support From top: Gavin Campbell; prestigious First Trust Donors, award recipients, Norbrook Laboratories for the Chair and raise the Professor John Hume Bank/University of Ulster their families and senior Chairman and honorary Building Relationships funding required to establish Distinguished Graduate University staff attended the graduate, the late Lord The partnership between it in perpetuity. We are Award. Gavin graduated ceremony where a range of Ballyedmond OBE. the University of Ulster and delighted with the progress from Ulster with a BSc Hons donor-funded awards and Santander Universities UK made in 2013, which saw Engineering in 1985 and scholarships were presented The University of Ulster Fund has become well established the University receive a HND Mechanical Engineering by the Vice-Chancellor. – previously known as the since its inception in 2011 and number of very generous in 1983. Alumni Fund – was launched is proving beneficial for many donations to this project.
36 37 Developing Connections Developing Connections
celebrated traditional music ‘The School of and its connections to cultures around the globe Creative Arts with an eclectic fusion of and Technologies musical traditions. Life Stories celebrated 25 years Life Stories in partnership with Danske Bank – a series of design at Magee, of interviews with prominent University of Ulster graduates at its annual End and honorary graduates who have excelled in their chosen of Year Show’ sphere — continued to evolve in 2013.
We welcomed: Professor Paul Muldoon, Pulitzer Prize- From top: Professor Paul Muldoon; winning poet; Susan Lynch, Sir Gerry Robinson one of Northern Ireland’s best known actresses; churchman The Rt Rev. the Lord Eames OM and business leader Sir Cultural Connections by the Centre for Media Taking place in September Gerry Robinson, a native of 2013 was the year for the arts. Research in the University’s 2013, hundreds of students Donegal and one of the UK’s During Derry~Londonderry’s School of Media, Film and attended the festival as foremost business leaders year as the UK’s City of Journalism. The conference part of their new term and analysts. Culture, the University played programme included inductions. The week-long a significant role in events contributions from the world programme included the Life Stories audiences on that took place in the city. of film and TV studies, media International Loebner Prize the Magee, Coleraine and An International Conference production, journalism, radio, Contest in Artificial Intelligence Belfast campuses received a on Music, Technology and photography, creative writing, and the Belfast Media Festival. rare opportunity to hear the Disability took place at publishing, interactive media personal account of the life Magee focusing on the theme and the web. The shared commitment and achievements of these ‘Inclusive Creativity’. of the Provost of the Coleraine distinguished alumni. The in- The spotlight was on how The School of Creative Arts campus and Causeway depth interviews, punctuated new digital technologies are and Technologies celebrated Coast Arts to supporting by examples of their work, being developed and applied 25 years of design at Magee the arts and engaging with explored each guest’s early to create a level playing field at its annual End of Year local communities in the years, the key landmarks for musicians of all ages Show. In 2013, for the first Ballymoney, Coleraine, in the development of their with physical disabilities and time ever, the show was held Limavady and Moyle career and the highs and lows learning difficulties. off-campus in the London Council areas was of their working life, as well Street gallery inside the manifest in the Cultural as their outlook and plans for The Media, Communication, Walled City. Crossings programme. the future. and Cultural Studies Association (MeCCSA) The University was a major This series of arts and cultural annual conference, ‘Spaces partner in CultureTECH – events reflected the musical and Places of Culture’, Northern Ireland’s biggest and cultural influence of was hosted at Magee creative industries event. emigrants from Ireland and
38 39 Sporting Life Sporting Life
Sporting Life
During the year, Ulster’s sports people won plaudits in sports Ulster’s sporting prowess ninth Sports History Ireland Sport on Film and state-of-the art facilities conference at the Magee The Ulster Sports Academy as diverse as golf, swimming, athletics, football, volleyball, were on show in 2013 campus in July. released a DVD celebrating canoeing, rugby and handball. In tandem with sporting when the University hosted the power of sport to the Collingwood Cup – the International sports analysts build peace and inclusion endeavour and achievement, Ulster aims to be the leading oldest all-island senior soccer and historians from Australia, among communities. institution in Ireland for the study of sport and exercise and competition – and the 2013 the Middle East and mainland to use our knowledge and expertise for the benefit of the Irish Universities Cross Europe joined experts from The DVD is based on the Country Championships. major institutions in the UK activities of the North East local, national and international community. and Ireland for the PEACE III Sport for Peace Sporting Talk annual event which was Building project and highlights In May, the Ulster Sports held in Northern Ireland a number of good practice Academy organised a for the first time, marking activities and events that took Sport and Good Relations Derry~Londonderry’s status place over the preceding Conference alongside as UK City of Culture. 12 months. Omagh District Council. Two Olympic gold medallists, Topics as diverse as Irish The project uses sport as an Irish international rugby sportsmen’s contribution to a medium to bring people player, a GAA All-Star and a the Spanish Civil War and hare together to understand each leading academic in sport for coursing in Victorian Connacht other’s cultures and develop development took part. were down for discussion at relationships. It included the lively conference which a number of workshops, The Sport and Good Relations attracted the largest ever seminars, conferences, Conference focused on number of delegates. residentials and international how sport can be used as exchanges and focused a tool to build bridges There was a particular on engagement and between communities, focus on Ulster’s rich and empowerment to create while simultaneously unique sporting heritage with lasting legacies. improving social engagement, contributions from leading encouraging integration, scholars in sports history The success of the project building trust and promoting from home and abroad. The has come from the structures diversity. keynote address was given created in the planning by Dr Dónal McAnallen who phase and the close working Guest speakers included explored issues surrounding relationships established with Dame Mary Peters, Dr Nigel the past and present local councils and volunteer Carr, Dr Stephen Martin and commemoration of historical groups and clubs to create a Peter Canavan. events by sports bodies long-term sustainable legacy. during the present ‘decade Ireland’s sporting history came of centenaries’. under the spotlight at the
40 41 Sporting Life Sporting Life
Golf swing research in the Sport and Exercise Sciences Research Institute Ulster Elks v Donegal Town Inside the University’s sports centre at Jordanstown
More than 200 qualified Sporting Connections This two-year (part-time) Sport for LIFE Organisation (WHO), for best It was also successful in coaches obtained accredited Ulster GAA teamed up with course is currently available The Ulster Sports Academy practice in promoting physical reducing the sedentary qualifications as part of the the University in 2013 to at the Belfast and Magee launched the ‘Sport for activity to marginalised groups behaviour of children. project. The programme unveil a major sponsorship campuses with University LIFE all-island’ project in and the Schools for Health builds on the University’s programme for adult students outcentres at Cookstown, September 2013, encouraging in Europe (SHE) network, University researchers are commitment to the local of the Irish language. Ranafast and Downings. primary school children to for promoting physical activity now in a position to share this community and focuses on participate in physical activity. as part of the European best practice programme with creating networks between The scholarship scheme will Students are instructed in Food Framework. other colleagues, so children researchers, policy makers run in partnership with the listening, speaking, reading The award-winning venture, from across the island of and practitioners to share School of Irish Language and and writing and many run by the Ulster Sports Sport for LIFE and the Sport Ireland can benefit. knowledge and build Literature and is to be known diploma graduates progress Outreach Unit, will target for LIFE ‘Teaching Training capacity through the as Gaeilge sa Chlub (‘Irish in to the degree course in Irish over 200 schools and 4,000 Legacy’ projects were power of sport. the Club’). Language and Literature. children in low socio-economic awarded London 2012 areas across Ireland. Inspire Awards. The North East PEACE III It aims to promote the use Working in partnership Sport for Peace Building of Irish within clubs throughout with Dublin City University, Professor Deirdre Brennan, project is funded under Ulster by providing financial University College Cork and Sport for LIFE all-island project the European Union’s assistance to GAA members the National University of leader at Ulster, believes that PEACE III programme. who sign up for the Diploma Ireland, Galway, the project the Sport for LIFE project in Irish Language course at will be delivered by trained was successful in significantly Ulster. student volunteers from each increasing vigorous, moderate university along with primary and light physical activity school teachers. levels among children living in areas of disadvantage across Sport for LIFE is recognised Northern Ireland. by both the World Health
42 43 People Power People Power
People Power
Ulster’s people – both internal and external to the University – come from all over the world. While their backgrounds are diverse, they are all bound by a shared passion for enriching the student experience, undertaking world-leading research and contributing to the social, economic and cultural development of Northern Ireland and beyond. The achievements of the wider Ulster community during 2013 are too numerous for this short section, but some of the most notable Professor Sean Strain (left) Vincent McCormack, who accepted an and Dr Mike Johnston honorary doctorate on behalf of his late wife, are highlighted. Dr Inez McCormack
Ulster’s People Power establishing the Norbrook for teachers of computer- Laboratories Professorship assisted language learning. Professor Gerard Parr was within the School of Pharmacy Professor John Gillespie, appointed to join the Strategic and Pharmaceutical Sciences from the School of Modern Advisory Team of the UK at the Coleraine campus. Languages was appointed Engineering and Physical Educationalist Professor Principal Fellow of the Higher Science Research Council Rosalind Pritchard was Education Academy (HEA) – (EPSRC) – a prestigious UK elected as a member of the first person from Northern Government Committee which the Royal Irish Academy – Ireland to be awarded the identifies priorities for research Ireland’s premier learned prestigious honour. The HEA and early career science society, numbering Nobel is a national, independent training funding. The Minister Prize winners, world-famous organisation which champions for Employment and Learning scholars and high-ranking excellent teaching and learning Dr Stephen Farry MLA politicians amongst its in higher education.
Professor Brandon Hamber Dr James Uhomoibhi appointed Clare McKeown, members. Professor Pritchard lecturer in building/ was honoured for her world- Ulster’s Global Impact construction technology, as class contribution to the field an educational representative of education theory. Professor Brandon on the Board of CITB – Hamber, Director of the ConstructionSkills NI. Dr David Barr, Head of the International Conflict Research School of Modern Languages, Institute (INCORE), was Leading scientist Professor was appointed as one of only named by Action on Armed John Callan was appointed seven international experts to Violence (AOAV) as one of the as the first holder of the sit on the WorldCALL Steering world’s most influential people prestigious Norbrook Chair Committee. WorldCALL is the in the reduction of armed in Pharmaceutical Science, global professional association violence. Dr Loretta Brennan Glucksman Dr Simon Kelner and Dr James Nesbitt
44 45
People Power People Power
Professor John Callan Professor Hugh McKenna
Sensor technology innovator Institute of Technology, the Professor Derek Jackson Professor Jim McLaughlin, book examines the ways ICT and Professor Andrew who leads Ulster’s Connected has been used to promote Cooper received accolades Health programme, highlighted citizenship and community from a leading US geoscience to a large Silicon Valley cohesion in projects that link organisation for their research audience how healthcare together schools in different findings. The Natural technologies developed at parts of the world. The 2013 Environment Research Council Ulster have inspired a set British Nutrition Foundation (NERC)-funded research on of globally successful spin- (BNF) annual lecture was the physics of blown sand on out companies. Dr James delivered by Professor Sean beaches was selected as the Uhomoibhi, lecturer and Strain, Professor of Human American Geophysical Union’s e-learning co-ordinator, Nutrition and Director of the (AGU) spotlight article. Faculty of Computing and Northern Ireland Centre for Engineering, was appointed Food and Health (NICHE) at Ulster Welcomes Friends Visiting Professor of computer Ulster, in the presence of science and IT at Igbinedion Her Royal Highness, The Ulster hosted a number of University in Nigeria. Princess Royal. esteemed visitors in 2013. In November, the University Education expert Professor Professor Hugh McKenna welcomed Her Royal Roger Austin travelled to Pro-Vice Chancellor (Research Highness The Princess New York to attend the US and Innovation) hosted a Royal to its Jordanstown launch of his new book Online delegation from the Swedish campus as part of a day-long Learning and Community Research Council interested visit to Northern Ireland. Cohesion: Linking Schools. to see the ground-breaking Co-authored with Bill Hunter work carried out by Ulster’s The Princess Royal’s visit of the University of Ontario pioneering research institutes. marked the 40th anniversary
46 47
People Power People Power
Awards for ‘Eye-C-3D’, a high Acclaimed movie director and The US-based peace resolution camera designed to screenwriter, Terry George campaigner, Dr Sally view the back of the eye in 3D. received the honorary degree Milbury-Steen was awarded His invention’s novel optical of Doctor of Letters (DLitt) in an honorary Doctor of Laws design dramatically reduces recognition of his services to (LLD) for promoting peace manufacturing costs. Northern Ireland film. and reconciliation in Northern Ireland. Honouring Excellence Ambassador Melanne Verveer, who delivered a The Chief Justice of the HRH The Princess Royal Professor Gerard Parr Our 2013 roll call of 11 lecture on the Belfast campus Supreme Court of Ireland, eminent figures from the in 2012 on the role of women The Hon Mrs Justice Susan worlds of education, business, in peace building in Northern Denham received an LLD in science, international Ireland and around the globe, recognition of distinguished affairs and the arts received received the honorary degree service to law nationally of the introduction of an honorary doctorate from course director, Dr Damian recognition for their impressive of Doctor of Laws (LLD). and internationally. occupational therapy the University. Distinguished Gallagher received a Fulbright achievements. education at the University. composer Brian Irvine, Northern Ireland Public Sector An honorary Doctor of Laws From the world of business, Professor of Music in the Scholar 2013/14 Award – Former editor and editor-in- (LLD) was conferred on the the Chief Executive of the The Secretary of State for School of Creative Arts at one of the most prestigious chief of The Independent and chair of The American Ireland Dairy Council for Northern Northern Ireland Theresa Magee delivered the University and selective scholarship The Independent On Sunday, Funds, Loretta Brennan Ireland, Dr Mike Johnston Villiers visited the Belfast of Ulster Convocation programmes operating in Simon Kelner received the Glucksman in recognition of was awarded the honorary campus where she delivered Lecture at the Magee the world. honorary degree of Doctor of her distinguished service to degree of Doctor of Science a keynote address on the campus, illustrated with live Letters (DLitt) for distinguished peace and reconciliation in (DSc) in recognition of political and economic musical accompaniment. In September, the University services to journalism. Northern Ireland. his distinguished work challenges facing Northern launched the NI Centre for in marketing and for his Ireland and was briefed on Award Winners Economic Policy (NICEP). leadership of the organisation. the University’s plans for an Later that year, its inaugural expanded city centre campus. Ulster lecturer Dr Sharon Director, leading economist Brady from the Bamford Professor Neil Gibson, Acclaimed theatre and film Centre for Mental Health and was awarded a prestigious actor Sir Ian McKellen Wellbeing at Magee, fought Eisenhower Fellowship – the delivered the 2013 off strong competition to win only Northern Ireland person Chancellor’s Lecture, taking a top award for her research to receive the honour in 2013. the opportunity to call for into personality disorders. Ulster academic Patrick more work to be done to build She won the prize for ‘Best Richardson, optometry gay equality. It was the first Presentation from a Junior lecturer in the School of time the annual Chancellor’s Scientist’ at the British- Biomedical Sciences, won a Lecture had been delivered Irish Group for the Study of ‘Best in Category’ prize at the at the University’s Magee Personality Disorders’ Annual prestigious Northern Ireland campus. He also received Conference. MSc Marketing Science Park (NISP) £25k Professor Neil Gibson Dr Terry George Dr Melanne Verveer
48 49 People Power People Power
The managing director of the Finally, the University mobile and cloud computing community was deeply firm Kainos,Brendan saddened to lose a number Mooney and Joe Sloan, of great colleagues and chairman of the consumer friends during 2013 – Ulster goods distributor the SHS is diminished by their parting. Group, both received the Among them, we remember honorary degree of Doctor Professor Bob Welch, of Science (DSc) for services (pictured) former Dean of to business development. the Faculty of Arts and Professor Seamus Heaney, Professor Christopher who accepted the honorary Hunter, a Fellow of the Royal degree of Doctor of Letters Society and Professor of from Ulster in 1992. Their Chemistry at the University abundant knowledge and of Sheffield received the energy in the service honorary degree of Doctor of the University will be of Science (DSc) for his greatly missed. distinguished research in molecular recognition. John Fay, Director of the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE), was awarded the honorary degree of Doctor of Science (DSc) for distinguished services to education related to agriculture, food and rural enterprise.
From top: Professor From top: Dr Susan Denham; Linda Clarke (left) with Professor Christopher Hunter; Dr Sally Milbury-Steen; Dr Joe Dr John Fay Sloan with Professor Jackie McCoy; Dr Brendan Mooney
50 51 Governance Contacts
Governance Contacts
Council Composition: One member of Statement of Primary University Of Ulster Business Enquiries Non-Academic Staff Responsibilities Cromore Road Office Of Innovation Ex-Officio Members Mr B Magee The University has also Coleraine T: +44 (0)28 9036 8019 adopted a statement of Co. Londonderry E: [email protected] Pro-Chancellors Audit Committee primary responsibilities which BT52 1SA Mr G Mallon (Chair) Composition: is available for download at: T: +44 (0)28 7012 3456 Ulster Graduates Dr J Harbison http://www.ulster.ac.uk/ E: [email protected] Development and Alumni Members appointed secretary/secretariat/council/ www.ulster.ac.uk Relations Office Vice-Chancellor by the Council statement_of_primary_ T: +44 (0)28 9536 7486 Professor R R Barnett Mr J Hunter (Chair) responsibilities.pdf Media Enquiries E: developmentandalumni@ Mr A Langan PR & Communications ulster.ac.uk Honorary Treasurer Mr L Nellis T: +44 (0)28 9036 6178 Ms R Peters-Gallagher Mrs H Quigley E: [email protected] Potential Benefactors Development and Alumni President of the Council Sub-Committee Student Enquiries Relations Office Students’ Union of the Organisational Full-time undergraduate study, T: +44 (0)28 7012 3208 Miss C Flanagan Development Committee postgraduate and part-time E: developmentandalumni@ 2012-2013 undergraduate study ulster.ac.uk Appointed Members T: +44 (0)28 7012 4221 Eight persons not being Nominations Sub- E: [email protected] Research Enquiries members of staff or Committee Composition: Research Office students of the University Prospective International T: +44 (0)28 7012 4124 Mrs M Clark Chairman of Council Students E: [email protected] Mr J Hunter Mr G Mallon (Chair) T: +44 (0)28 7012 4383 Mrs R Laird E: [email protected] Mr A Langan Vice-Chancellor Mr L Nellis Professor R R Barnett Research Study This publication is available in Ms J O’Connor Opportunities alternative formats on request Mrs H Quigley Independent members T: +44 (0)28 7012 3511 from the Public Relations and Dr AM Telford Ms K Erwin E: [email protected] Communications Department. Dame G Keegan Elected Members Mr D Licence Two members of Academic Staff Professor N Black Dr B Mason
One member of Academic-Related Staff Mr P Quinn
52 53 Ulster in Action Ulster in Action
Ulster in Action
54 55 www.ulster.ac.uk ISSN 2046-7117
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