I was listening this morning to our Chief Scientist, Professor Michel Kaiser, talking on BBC Radio 4 about evidence-based decision making relating to improving the marine impact of scallop fishing. It reminded me again of the importance of using evidence to support rational decision making, particularly in a world where perceptions and political views can become detached from reality. Secondly, it reminded me of the importance of ensuring […] Read More
I decided to make sure I did something intentionally different on the rest day last week- for me it was Friday. I am always interested in receiving recommendations for good books to read so I decided to make a start on two books that had been recommended by colleagues, the first of which I have now completed. ‘The Path to Purpose – how young people find their calling in […] Read More
The pandemic has profoundly impacted the lives of our research students, research postdocs, technicians and academic colleagues. As with all things COVID, the landscape is diverse, with some areas being extraordinarily productive and others not being able to progress at all. As our Staff Pulse Survey has shown, some people are able to work and others not – be it for lack of access to facilities or managing […] Read More
Yesterday I participated in a digital celebration ‘2021 China-UK Education Online Gathering’ and ‘Online Chinese New Year’s Gala’. It was a review of how Chinese students and University partners across the UK had responded in supporting Chinese and other international students. It was a delight to be reminded of the activities and care that so many people and organisations have exhibited. There were also glimpses into activities at […] Read More
I was pleased to welcome over 1900 people connecting into the All Staff Executive Briefing this week. One of the few good things coming from the pandemic is our greater connectivity and collegiality through sharing information and broadening of understanding of how things work across our global University. My thanks to those who were able to participate and for the comments and suggestions made. If you were unable […] Read More