Get documents about "Major deal to develop biochip imaging
W
Description
DNA chips or biochips, also known as gene chips, which are DNA hybridization probe and the semiconductor industry is combined with crystallization. The technology refers to a large number of probe molecules fixed on supports with a fluorescent marker after the DNA samples were hybridized molecules, molecules by detecting hybridization of each probe to obtain samples of molecular signal strength and thus the number and sequence information.
Document Sample
News
JANUARY 2009 Volume 15 No.4
Record grant for
history team Major deal
to develop
See p5
Severn Barrage:
biochip
The debate
See p6-7
Welsh Woman of the
Year’s inspiring story
See p9
imaging
See page 3
Cardiff research goes supernova
See page 2
NEWS
Exploding star in 3-D Additional
RAE
T
he remains of an exploding
star have been reconstructed
for the first time as a moving
information
3-D visualisation by an international Following the publication by the
team of astronomers, including funding councils of the Research
Cardiff scientist Dr Haley Gomez. Assessment Exercise (RAE)
outcomes in December 2008, all
Using X-Ray images, and infrared data, universities have now received
the group created the visualisation of additional information derived
the supernova remnant Cassiopeia A, from the Assessment.
the remains of a star thought to have
The information released by the
exploded 330 years ago.
funding councils – in confidence
to universities until publication
The model brought in Spring 2009 – comprises sub-
profiles, subject overviews, main
together the best panel reports and summary statistics
techniques from the for each Unit of Assessment.
fields of astronomy and Cassiopeia A supernova remnant. Copyright NASA/JPL- Caltech/O Krause This information is now being
considered by the University.
medical imaging, and Astronomers had known about the away from different angles. As well
as being a pretty picture, it provides The funding councils will base
plumes and jets before, but did not know
allowed the team to their decisions on research
that they all came out in a broad, disk- an amazing insight into the original
identify a number of new explosion of the star.” spending allocations directly
like structure, as revealed by the model.
on the Assessment results.
findings, including high Dr Gomez said: “This reconstruction The team was led by Dr Tracey Universities will not know until
velocity plumes and is really extraordinary. Astronomers DeLaney of the Massachusetts March at the earliest exactly how
and the public are used to seeing Institute of Technology. this funding will be calculated.
jets shooting out from flat 2-D pictures, far removed from
Front page image of Cassiopeia A • For Cardiff’s Research
the star as it exploded. our everyday 3-D life. Now, we can
Copyright NASA/CXC/D.Berry Assessment Exercise results visit:
visualise an object 11,000 light years
www.cardiff.ac.uk/rae/results
• The Dental School table in
December’s Cardiff News (p6)
Operatic masterclass
showed UK dental schools
ranked by “Research Power” but
incorrectly displayed “Research 4*
and 3*” data. Cardiff University’s
5th ranking remains correct and
further information can be seen at
www.cardiff.ac.uk/rae/results/dentl
Joining forces
with world leader
The University has joined forces with
leading consultancy company Mott
MacDonald to share and promote
consultancy, engineering and research
expertise. The new joint working
arrangement could see the University
and Mott MacDonald working jointly
on a range of initiatives in sectors
including health, sustainability,
housing, transport, and water with
the potential for project sponsorship,
World-famous soprano Dame Kiri Te Kanawa held a sell-out public masterclass with students from the Cardiff skills transfer, specialist advice, staff
International Academy of Voice. Dame Kiri, who is President of the Academy, worked with the students for a week, exchange and specialist research.
mentoring them and helping them to develop their vocal technique. Seven students were then selected to perform in
Derek Jones, Director of Business and
the masterclass.
Strategic Partnerships said: “This is a
Catrin Aur Davies was one of the students performing: “It was an absolute privilege being picked out to sing in public with very exciting development to be able to
Dame Kiri,” said Catrin. “She is so generous and warm - I learnt so much from her during her week at the Academy.” sign a joint working arrangement with
Photo: Dame Kiri Te Kanawa and Academy Director Dennis O’Neill (front row, centre) with the students chosen one of the world's leading management
for the masterclass (back row left to right) Rhys Jenkins, Noel Hernandez, Clare Egan, Philip Voldman (pianist), and engineering consultancies.”
(front row) Phillip Rhodes, Catrin Aur Davies, Lisa Wilson, Carlos Osuna Full story at www.cf.ac.uk/news/
macdonald .
2
NEWS
Optical biochips could New Year’s
Honours 2009
be the “silicon chips The outstanding achievements
of individuals working at,
or associated with Cardiff
University have been recognised
of medical research”
in the New Year’s Honours list.
Professor Peter Wells,
Scientific Director of the Institute
of Medical Engineering and
Medical Physics at the School
of Engineering, is appointed a
Faster disease diagnosis may result from work focused on developing Commander of the Order of the
the next generation of optical biochips. British Empire (CBE) for services
to healthcare science. University
Fellow and graduate Owain
Arwel Hughes OBE was also
I
nnovative lens-free cell from the School of Medicine, believes
made a CBE for his contribution
imaging equipment optical biochips may do for medical
to music and charity.
co-developed by research what silicon chips have done
scientists at the School of for computers. He said: Derek Jones, formerly
Medicine and the Gray senior director of the Welsh
Cancer Institute Oxford, has Assembly Government, now the
been taken forward by two
“This technology will University’s Director of Business
leading medical technology mean that we can act in and Strategic Partnerships was
development companies. terms of diagnosing appointed a Companion of the
The commercialisation Order of the Bath (CB).
disease at the cellular
could impact on treatments,
level very quickly.” Professor Wendy Hall, Fellow
such as cancer and wound
of the University and Professor of
healing, and how they are
Computer Science at the University
delivered.
“It is envisaged that CyMap can be of Southampton, is appointed a
CyMap – one of the developed into a hand-held device Dame Commander of the Order
inventions emerging from which should make the equipment of the British Empire (DBE).
the Optical Biochips accessible and affordable for more
University Vice-Chancellor,
Consortium led by Paul people working in cancer and other
Dr David Grant, said: “These
Smith, Professor of Cancer health related disciplines across
awards recognise the significant
Biology - being advanced the world, not just the larger well-
contributions made by each of the
through a commercial equipped biosciences laboratories.”
recipients and I am delighted to
agreement between Cancer
In the diagnostics field, CyMap may extend congratulations to them on
Research Technology
also be developed to monitor bacterial behalf of the entire University.”
Limited, the oncology-
contamination, the presence of
focused development
other pathogens, or to count red and
and commercialisation
company, and the
technology development Professor Paul Smith and Dr Rachel Errington
white blood cells. One of the other
advantages of CyMap technology is
Healthcare first
that it can be easily miniaturised and The UK’s only designated Chair
specialists The Technology
cancer, processes such as wound integrated with microfluidic systems responsible for driving forward
Partnership plc.
healing, and support drug screening - and it may also have other wider evidence-based research in healthcare
Professor Smith, who leads a team across a wide range of parameters. research applications as well. improvement and patient care has
in the Department of Pathology, was been appointed at Cardiff.
in overall charge of the £2.3 million When illuminated using a simple
biochip project carried out by the light source, the CyMap technology Dr Jonathon Gray becomes the
Consortium and funded by Research enables 'items' such as cells or University’s Chair in Healthcare
Councils UK. pathogens in a sample to create light Improvement, a joint collaboration
diffraction and interference patterns between the School of Medicine,
CyMap is a lensless imaging chip that can be recorded by a charge- School of Social Sciences and the
able to detect a range of particle coupled device (CCD) - a type of Wales Centre for Health.
types in a solution. It holds the digital camera - and then analysed
potential to be used in highly cost- using computer algorithms. Scientists The new position enables the
effective medical diagnostics systems are then able to count the number of University to improve its research
in hospitals, doctors’ surgeries and ʻitemsʼ in a sample, and also monitor capacity by better linking the Schools
research laboratories. It is able to changes over time, such as location, by providing a lead, supporting
detect, quantify and analyse cultured movement and division of cells. policy and improving evidence-based
cells and medical samples including medicine in Wales and across the
blood, and hence CyMap could speed Professor Smith, who is co-inventor
world. Full story at www.cf.ac.uk/
up diagnosis of disease, including alongside Dr Rachel Errington, also Cells such as these can be tracked over
time through the CyMap chip news/healthcare .
January 2009 3
RESEARCH
“A giant in the modern
history of medical care”
A day of reflection to celebrate the life and contribution of Professor Archie Cochrane – one of the founders of modern medicine – was hosted at the
University. Organised by the Dean of Interdisciplinary Studies, Professor Peter Halligan, the event attracted many who worked alongside Professor
Cochrane and thoughts on his legacy from senior medical figures in the UK and the USA. A selection of the tributes is given below.
Case Notes
Born Archibald Leman Cochrane,
1909, Galashiels, Scotland
Qualified in Medicine, University
College Hospital, London 1938
Served with the British Ambulance
Unit, Spanish Civil War
Captured and served as Medical
Officer in prisoner of war camps,
World War II. Appointed MBE
in recognition of “gallant and
distinguished” war service.
1948. Joined the Medical Research
Council Pneumonoconiosis Unit,
Aspects of Archie. Professor Sir Iain Chalmers, founder of the Cochrane Collaboration; Professor Peter Elwood, School of Medicine, who worked Llandough Hospital. Embarked
with Archie Cochrane on many research projects, including a breakthrough on the benefits of aspirin; Professor Max Blythe, who completed on a pioneering study linking lung
Cochrane’s unfinished autobiography; Dr Julian Tudor Hart, another colleague and a pioneer in community control of hypertension and other disease to coal dust in two South
chronic conditions. All four shared their memories at the Cochrane Reflection Day. For a fuller report see: www.cf.ac.uk/news/cochranetribute Wales mining valleys.
“Archie Cochrane is a giant in the that work, I think was really quite
Appointed David Davies Professor
modern history of medical care tremendous.” Dame Carol Black, UK
and healthcare services.” National Director for Health and Work of Tuberculosis and Chest Diseases
Donald Berwick, Clinical Professor at the Welsh National School of
of Paediatrics and Healthcare Policy, “The Cochrane Collaboration is Medicine (now School of Medicine,
Harvard Medical School, USA an incredible legacy which now Cardiff University), 1960
in the 14 years of its existence has
“The Cochrane Collaboration touched many, many lives around Appointed a CBE in 1968 for
database and all the work that’s gone the world.” Kay Dickersin, Professor services to the School of Medicine.
on in all the countries of the world of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins
has more than cemented his legacy Bloomberg School of Public Health, Published Effectiveness and
as a pioneer in the provision of USA
Efficiency: Random Reflections
Tributes evidence-based healthcare.”
Sir Liam Donaldson, Government
Chief Medical Adviser, UK
“Part of his work was actually about
having results that would make a
on Health Services, 1972. The
book helped establish randomised
“He had about ten ordinary lives difference to society.” Sir Michael controlled trials in medical
rolled into one.” Rhodri Morgan, “He saw profound socio-economic Marmot, Director, International research worldwide
First Minister for Wales disparities in health in his community Institute for Society and Health,
and in his nation…and taught us that University College London 1988. Died peacefully at his
“He was a friend and a marvellous these disparities are unconscionable.” nephew’s home in Dorset, aged 79
person to work with – charismatic, Lawrence Gostin, Associate Dean, “A man who had a enormous
with a lot of ideas, lateral thinking and Georgetown University Law Center, impact on Wales and on healthcare 1993. Professor Sir Iain Chalmers
enthusiasm.” Professor Peter Elwood USA worldwide.” Professor Peter Halligan founded the Cochrane Collaboration.
“As a Medical Officer in the prison Some 15,000 researchers are now
“The work that he did in the Rhondda “We were very fond of him, and he
camps he felt totally responsible and involved worldwide, sharing the
Valley for ten years in which he was very good to all the family.”
began looking at disease patterns, results of medical trials on a not-
really showed that exposure to Maggie Stalker, wife of Archie
saying ‘What can I do to intervene?’” environmental agents was related Cochrane’s nephew Joe for-profit basis
Professor Max Blythe to disability, and the way he did
4
RESEARCH
Record grant to study When faulty
proteins
Europe’s first farmers collide
Scientists from the School of
Biosciences have explained
how bowel cancer can become
Cardiff is leading an international team in investigating the lifestyle of the aggressive and identified a
key protein for potential drug
first farmers in central Europe. development.
Published in Nature Genetics,
One of the key questions will be the study was led by Professor
whether the existing European Alan Clarke, Cancer Research
population of hunter gatherers UK’s lead researcher.
themselves settled down as farmers,
It found that a tumour
or whether agriculture brought in by
suppressor protein called Pten
immigrants from Turkey and the Near
is critical in stopping tumours
East. The answer may be a combination
from growing. Importantly,
of the two.
the team found that when Pten
The team will be analysing human becomes faulty some of these
and animal samples to learn more tumours turn aggressive.
about the diet and mobility of the LBK
When Pten faults coincide with
populations. Teeth, for example, can
faults in another protein called
show if people were brought up in a
APC, then a kinase protein
different area to where they died.
called AKT stimulates tumours
Professor Whittle and Dr Daniela to become aggressive and they
Hofmann from Cardiff will be are then more likely to spread.
working with Dr Alex Bentley, a
Detecting this trend led to the
reader in anthropology at Durham
Professor Hedges, Professor Whittle, Dr Bentley (holding a replica LBK bowl) and Dr team to identify AKT as a strong
University and Professor Robert
Hofmann planning the research project, which will span central Europe. lead for drug development to
Hedges, a leading archaeological
target bowel cancer.
scientist from Oxford University.
A
crucial period in the in Europe, have won £610,000 from
Professor Alan Clarke said:
settlement of Europe will be the Arts and Humanities Research Dr Bentley and Durham colleague
“These findings are really
investigated in detail by a Council. The interdisciplinary project Professor Graham Pearson will
interesting. We now have a
team from the School of History and combines archaeological research on examine strontium isotope signatures
model of how bowel cancer
Archaeology. The Linearbandkeramik Neolithic settlements and cemeteries in teeth and how they differed
progresses. Previously scientists
(LBK) culture covered large areas as well as the very latest in scientific across the region, while Professor
only had a very limited idea
of central Europe between 5500 and analysis of on a wide range of human Hedges will analyse carbon, nitrogen
of how bowel tumours were
4900BC – the first phase of settled and animal remains. and calcium isotope signatures for
believed to progress.
agriculture in this region. For the first information about the prehistoric diet,
time, cereal was grown in Europe and oxygen isotope signatures for “This has given us a clearer
and domestic animals were raised.
The award is the largest further insights into mobility. picture of how bowel tumours
It was traditionally thought that this ever made to Cardiff by actually grow and provides
Professor Whittle said: “It is very
was a uniform culture, with few the Arts and Humanities scientists with crucial
rare that this suite of techniques
differences across the region. But information for drug design to
Research Council. can be used together to gain a
now a substantial grant will enable slow down or stop the spread of
deeper understanding of several
the Cardiff team and their colleagues the disease.”
The sweep of the project will take in complementary aspects of past
to look for economic and social
Alsace, southern Germany, northern lifeways. The project is an important Dr Lesley Walker, Cancer
differences within this culture.
Austria, the southern part of the inter-disciplinary and international Research UK’s director of
The team, led by the School’s Czech Republic, Slovakia and western case study of diversity and its cancer information described the
Professor Alasdair Whittle, along Hungary. The team will be looking at implications within a superficially findings as “a really important
with colleagues from Durham a large number of samples collected uniform culture – a problem repeated piece of science”.
and Oxford and collaborators in from Neolithic sites across this region. across many prehistoric situations.”
Strasbourg, Mainz and elsewhere
There’s so much going on… Timely report on contingency fees
Cardiff News contains only a fraction of the A new report by Professor Richard Moorhead, Deputy Head of Cardiff Law School,
University’s news output, the majority of which suggests this country’s justice system would not be impaired by contingency deals
is published at www.cardiff.ac.uk/news Here allowing lawyers to take fees from damages won for clients. The report, completed
are just a few of the recently featured items. in partnership with Senior Costs Judge Peter Hurst, was commissioned by the Civil
Justice Council. Full story at: www.cardiff.ac.uk/news/fees .
January 2009 5
DEBATE
The Severn Barrage Debate
Multi-disciplinary collaborations between colleagues in different Schools and
Centres are an important feature of research of Cardiff University. Given the breadth
of world-leading research taking place across the University, academic staff often
bring different perspectives or concentrate on different aspects of the same issue.
T
he controversy surrounding
the proposed Severn Barrage
is one of those issues. There is
a wide range of expertise available at
the University for considering both the
Severn’s potential for energy generation
and the environmental dimensions.
Here, Professor Roger Falconer from
the School of Engineering argues
that the Severn Barrage would
bring benefits in sustainable energy
generation while Professor Steve
Ormerod of the School of Biosciences
raises some of the associated wildlife
and conservation issues…
The Severn Barrage:
Roger’s view
The main proposal for tidal energy
provision from the Severn Estuary is
the Cardiff-Weston Barrage. The
barrage would be 16 km long, would
generate 5 per cent of the UK’s
current electricity supply, would focus
energy capture in an efficient manner
and would have the benefit over wind
and wave energy in that tides are
predictable.
This barrage proposal – along with
others – is being studied using
computational models developed
within the School of Engineering. The
model simulations have shown that
a barrage would reduce the upstream Professor Roger Falconer discussing the Barrage with Jonathan Porritt for BBC Wales
spring tidal range from 14m to 7m,
which would result in a marked loss of in the estuary; increase the light In terms of impact on the local region, it we are going to have to do something
the inter-tidal habitat areas. Whilst this penetration through the water is estimated that a barrage would create very bold in the UK and for me one
loss would potentially have an adverse column and encourage an increase an additional 40,000 jobs and would of those things is to get the Severn
impact on the aquatic environment and change in the bio-diversity and significantly increase the potential for Barrage built.” I agree with this
upstream, the model also shows that aquatic life on the estuary bed; tourism and the local economy. conclusion.
the peak tide elevations would be lower and enhance the opportunities for
In a recent BBC Wales TV Professor Roger Falconer
by up to 1.5m upstream to Gloucester recreational water sports.
documentary, Week In Week Out,
and by at least 25cm for some 75km The main concern with the loss of Jonathan Porritt (Chair, Sustainable
downstream of the Barrage, thereby inter-tidal habits relates to the impact Development Commission) Professor Falconer is
reducing flood risk – both upstream on the bird population. However, the concluded: “my colleagues in the Halcrow Professor of Water
and downstream. Severn is a dynamic estuary, already environmental movement don’t seem Management at the School of
The lower tidal currents induced by being affected by climate change, to understand the scale and threat of Engineering. As a member of
a barrage would: reduce the very and the RSPB’s own figures for climate change. the Department for Business,
high levels of sediments in the water Dunlin show that a dramatic decline Enterprise and Regulatory
of nearly 50 per cent has occurred in “For me that takes priority over Reform Expert Panel, he is
column (thereby making the water
the estuary’s bird population between everything else - if we’re going to do bound by confidentiality on a
much clearer or bluer); improve the
1988-93 and 2000-05. something about these threats then number of points.
overall water quality characteristics
6
DEBATE
The Severn Barrage:
Steve’s view
Architecture’s
If current CO2 emissions continue, call for
habitat damage will commit over
a third of land-based plants and
animals to extinction by the 2050s.
sustainable
Wales cannot escape. In the River
development
Wye, for example, Atlantic salmon Welsh business leaders learned about
have declined by over 50 per cent as the Welsh School of Architecture’s
temperatures and river flows have contribution to sustainable projects
changed over the last 25 years. around the world at a recent Cardiff
University Innovation Network event.
How tragic that the proposed Severn The Head of the School, Professor
barrage could curtail adult migration Phil Jones, set the scene for the
and risk local extinction in one of the audience at the Wales Millennium
very species that emission mitigation Centre, explaining how sustainable
is intended to benefit. design had gone from niche market to
This and several other endangered mainstream in the past three decades.
migrant fishes in the Severn are listed He called for a research-led
on the EU Habitats Directive (92/43/ development industry and added:
EEC), which confers Europe’s highest “We have a lot of skills for delivering
conservation safeguard on the Rivers a more sustainable environment. The
Wye, Usk, and the Severn estuary. question is – can we apply them within
The estuary is also a Special the short timescale we have left?”
Protection Area (79/49/EEC) for The Network then heard of the
some of the migrant waterfowl and partnership work on The Pearl Island
wading birds for which Britain has development in Qatar between the
disproportionate importance. School’s Centre for Research in the
European law outlines how such Built Environment (CRiBE), and
sites are protected from development Professor Steve Ormerod Cardiff-based company Building
projects except where no alternatives Energy Partnership. Peter Robson,
exist and where there are “imperative founding partner in Building Energy
reasons of overriding public interest”. Partnership, which won the tender to
produce a sustainable design manual
Even then, compensation measures for the development, told the audience:
are required. None of us has yet
“To prove the integrity and credibility
begun to imagine the scale of such
of the work, we approached CRiBE
compensation for the river and
to see if they would be interested in
estuarine resources involved here.
working with us. That proved to be
There is no doubt that we must our masterstroke.”
reduce carbon emissions urgently
• Sustainability site launch – page 9
through conservation and safe energy
generation. The Severn offers huge
potential from its tides and currents,
but several tests should apply before
New post to
they are exploited: take forward IT
Firstly, expenditure on any barrage
should not preclude more rapid
Third, any generating option should But might this not offer a win-win modernisation
not be more damaging than the situation in which tidal energy
reductions in emissions from capital Eileen Brandreth has
problems we wish to alleviate. is harnessed with manageable
spent on reducing energy demand. been appointed as
environmental impact?
Recent work by the engineering Cardiff University’s
Second, any option to generate
company, Atkins, showed that a ‘tidal Professor Steve Ormerod first Director
electricity should represent value
reef’, from Aberthawe to Minehead, of University
for public money. The £15bn
was technically feasible, £2bn Information
Cardiff-Weston barrage, discussed Professor Steve Ormerod is
cheaper than the Cardiff-Weston Technology (IT).
by the Sustainable Development Professor of Ecology at Cardiff
Barrage, and capable of generating
Commission, would be among the School of Biosciences. He is Before taking up this position, Eileen
17 per cent more electricity with
most damaging options ecologically currently Chairman of RSPB was Chief Information Officer for
considerably less environmental
while offering one of the most Wales and serves as President Corporate Services in Royal & Sun
damage.
expensive means of renewable of the Institute of Ecology and Alliance. Martyn Harrow, Director
generation. There is concern that this option Environmental Management. of Information Services, said “Eileen
might not be included in the He is also a trustee of the will considerably strengthen the
In providing c 4 per cent of UK
next phase of the UK and Welsh Association of Rivers Trust. position of IT in the University,
electricity, costs-per-unit would be
Governments’ Feasibility Study. bringing in extensive practical
double those generated renewably
from other available sources. IT leadership experience and an
impressive track record of success
gained in the business world.”
January 2009 7
RESEARCH
Calling for a school food revolution
N
ew research from the Drawing on empirical data collected time, place, and zeitgeist coming Below: Professor Morgan and Dr
School of City and Regional in urban and rural areas around the together. Academics, politicians and Sonnino visiting the Plumcroft School,
Planning is having such world, the book takes a critical look communities are all getting involved Greenwich allotment with Year 3 pupils
an impact that it is being launched at school food reform, the creation of and realising that the humble school (left to right) Issy Stevenson-Quilty, Emily
in triplicate across the UK and markets for local producers and new meal is a prism through which we White, Shuab Jama, and Jabir Samater.
worldwide. food education initiatives. can explore some of the biggest issues The borough of Greenwich, despite
facing our society - the environment, being one of the poorest in London,
The first launch of The School This perspective on the design and features in The School Revolution as
sustainability and social justice.”
Food Revolution: Public Food delivery of sustainable school food having been in the vanguard of school
and the Challenge of Sustainable systems in an international context The keynote speaker for the London food reform. Professor Morgan and Dr
Development, a new book by has already drawn worldwide launch was Sheila Sisulu, Sonnino presented a copy of their book
Professor Kevin Morgan and Dr attention with Professor Morgan and the Deputy Executive to the school’s head cook and took the
Roberta Sonnino, was hosted at the Dr Sonnino invited to present their Director of the World opportunity to visit the allotment, one
University. This was followed by a research in 13 countries to date. Food Programme. of the healthy eating and sustainability
London launch in November and initiatives taking place at the school.
Speaking about the attention their
the work will be introduced to an
work has attracted, Professor
international audience via a New
Morgan said: “It is an
York launch in May 2009.
astonishing case of
Staff survey reveals University commitment
high satisfaction – to research staff
and areas to improve The University has declared its
commitment to a national strategy
valuing their work and providing
them with support and career
Cardiff University employees have University to others as a good place to for research staff development development.
high levels of overall satisfaction with work. The main factors contributing with a day-long conference on
their work according to the results of to the overall satisfaction level were Professor Terry Rees, Cardiff
researchers’ careers.
a comprehensive staff attitude survey. workplace culture, help with pressure University Pro Vice-Chancellor
both inside and outside work and the The Research Staff Conference for Research, emphasised the
Some 2357 members of staff – around was addressed by Professor importance of the effective
quality of line management.
43 per cent of the total workforce – Sir Ivor Crewe, chair of the implementation of the Concordat
completed a questionnaire in May Areas of lower satisfaction included implementation steering group and spoke of those Concordat
and June. The results have just been internal communication, the reward for the new national Concordat to principles which are already
published, showing that, overall, 79 system for good performance, Support the Career Development integrated into the structures of
per cent are satisfied with working for advancement and promotion, and of Researchers. Sir Ivor told the University. More information
the University. There are similar high consultation about change at work. the audience that the Concordat on training and development
figures for staff who said they enjoyed Priority action areas are now being was based on the principles of opportunities for research
doing their job and for satisfaction with taken forward from the survey. recruiting and retaining the best staff can be found at:
conditions of employment, while 71 per researchers, recognising and www.cf.ac.uk/researchstaff.
Full results of the study can be found at
cent said they would recommend the
www.cardiff.ac.uk/humrs/pwe/survey/
8
NEWS
Welsh Woman of the Year success Sustainability
site launched
P
rofessor Judith Hall, School
of Medicine, has been A new University web area
named Welsh Woman of the dedicated to sustainability has
Year in recognition of her inspiring been launched showing how the
achievements as both a clinical University community is working
academic and as founder of the together on this important issue.
educational charity Mothers of Africa.
The web microsite brings together
In 2003, Professor Hall learned that the University’s environmental
African mothers are 80 times more policies, plans and progress. It also
likely to die in childbirth than those details the challenging targets set
in developed countries. She decided by the University to reduce carbon
immediately that something had to emissions.
be done.
Faster access to information about
“The scale of maternal mortality in Sub- sustainable development research
Saharan Africa is almost inconceivable taking place across the University
to someone from the UK. Every day is enabled and the site also carries
more than 400 young women, that is ideas and tips on how students and
the equivalent of a jumbo jet full of staff can get involved, take action
young women, in the prime of their and make a difference locally and
lives, are dying unnecessarily in globally.
childbirth,” said Professor Hall. “And, The University has a responsibility
of course, it gets worse because if towards protecting the environment
mothers die, then the chances of their not only through its own actions
babies dying increases dramatically.” which address a wide range of
She established Mothers of Africa Professor Hall accepts her award as Welsh Woman of the Year sustainability issues, but also by
in 2004 with the aim of reducing seeking to bring about positive
these appalling figures. The charity is just emerging from a terrible civil war my husband Simon, Mothers of Africa change through a world-leading
supported by the medical community and the need there is enormous.” simply would not have happened. programme of research, learning
in Wales with teams of educationalists, I am also grateful for the wonderful and teaching.
Professor Hall’s ‘day job’ is working
teachers and clinicians from the support the charity has received from
as the UK’s only female Head Initiatives on sustainability are
School of Medicine and Cardiff and the wider University community.”
of Department of Anaesthetics continually being introduced,
Vale NHS Trust travelling to deliver and Intensive Care Medicine. Professor Hall is the third University updated and added to across all
teaching in Benin, Togo, Ethiopia and Acknowledging that there are often winner of Welsh Woman of the Year, the University’s sites.
Liberia. They educate local health care not enough hours in the day, Professor following Ann Taylor (1999) also
workers to recognize sick mothers and To read about your more
Hall dedicated her award success to based in the School of Medicine’s
to provide them with immediate life- sustainable University visit:
the charity’s many tireless fundraisers Department of Anaesthetics &
saving care. www.cardiff.ac.uk/sustainability/
and trustees. Intensive Care Medicine and
“Our most recent work has been Professor the Baroness Ilora Finlay of
She said: “If it were not for the support
carried out in Liberia, possibly the Llandaff, an honorary professor and
I receive from my colleagues at the
most challenging but also the most School of Medicine, my friends, and
former Vice Dean of the University’s Setting the standard
rewarding of our trips. The country is School of Medicine (1994).
for journalists
The National Council for the Training
Partnership to sharpen focus on Welsh issues of Journalists has revealed the
Diploma in Newspaper Journalism,
Welsh issues are to get an even opportunities to further deliver agreement marks a significant step run at the School of Journalism,
sharper focus thanks to a new quality research which informs forward for the Institute in a year Media and Cultural Studies, as the
agreement between the University future of policies, promoting new when we are celebrating our 21st UK’s best performing postgraduate
and the Institute of Welsh Affairs. and innovative approaches to issues anniversary. The complementary journalism course.
of relevance to Wales. strengths of both institutions
The agreement with the leading Students on the course have received
will bring an even sharper focus
think tank for Wales, paves the way Speaking at the launch at the the best results in examinations run by
on the issues facing Wales. I
for greater collaboration in public National Assembly, Professor Ken the National Council for the Training
hope it is a forerunner of similar
policy development. Woodhouse, Pro Vice-Chancellor of Journalists.
collaborations.”
for Engagement, said: “This is
Working together to advance • The Cardiff University student
a great example of how higher The University’s Wales Governance
research into political and legal magazine Quench has been named
education and organisations such Centre has already been working
matters in Wales, the agreement Magazine of the Year at the Guardian
as the Institute of Welsh Affairs with the Institute of Welsh Affairs
formalises an already long-standing Student Media awards. The judges
can work together to inform and on the publication of a series of
relationship with the Institute. said: “Of all the magazines, it felt like
influence the public agenda.” Cardiff Bay Papers, the second of
the one that was going to be picked up
The Partnership will increase which - Politics in 21st Century
Institute of Welsh Affairs Chair a lot and used.”
the prospect of attracting grants Wales - has just been launched.
Geraint Talfan Davies, said, “This
and maximising other funding
January 2009 9
PEOPLE
Health Minister opens new
‘virtual’ radiography suite
A
new state-of-the-art ‘virtual’ collaboration with computer science Dr Paul Brown said: “The ‘virtual
radiography suite, which will experts in Cardiff University reality’ system allows some 20
improve care of patients with and expect that this will lead to therapeutic students per year to gain
cancer, has been opened by Health exploration of opportunities for the vital ‘hands-on’ experience of using
Minister, Edwina Hart. training of other types of clinical staff the linear accelerator treatment
and for research in the growing field machines in a safe environment, in
The Cardiff University Radiography In a New Mexico city where only
of virtual reality and simulation.” preparation for, and alongside their
Virtual Environment Suite, based 14 inches of rain fall in a year,
clinical training.
in the School of Healthcare Studies Radiotherapy is a treatment for a Cardiff University packamac
and funded through the NHS Capital patients with cancer and some non- “The new facility uses two Sony 4K might not be considered essential.
and Expenditure Scheme, allows malignant disorders which utilises projectors and Vicon MX cameras However, when former University
therapeutic radiography students the the biological effects of high energy designed and installed by HoloVis Secretary Eirian Edwards was
opportunity to practise their skills in X-rays and other ionising radiations. Limited and puts us ahead of other caught out by a thunderstorm just
a completely safe environment. UK universities in terms of its before an opera in Santa Fe, it
Tracking the user through a series
projection capability and future came in very handy.
Opening the new unit, Mrs Hart said: of infra-red camera sensors, the
training and research potential. Our
“I am delighted to officially open this sophisticated new equipment creates a The packamac, which Eirian
students will now be able to learn
cutting edge virtual reality training simulated environment which is then obtained at an Eisteddfod many
important concepts, and practice new
unit which is the first such facility for projected on to screens via Virtual years ago, also proved to be a
techniques in a safe environment,
NHS staff in Wales. This new unit Environment Radiotherapy Training conversation starter.
where no harm can come to the
gives students the experience of what computer software. The student user
student or patient.” Eirian said: “One of my group
it would be like working in a clinical is immersed into the ‘virtual world’
setting. of a radiotherapy treatment room Whilst the Radiography Virtual told me she had published a
and can perform the usual functions Environment Suite is primarily used paper with someone from the
“It will provide radiography students School of Biosciences. The people
undertaken in ‘setting up’ a patient for radiotherapy training, future
with a facility which will greatly having a picnic next to us said
for their radiotherapy treatment and use will include virtual diagnostic
improve training opportunities they had a daughter at Swansea
associated tasks. radiography and possible research
and ultimately enhance the care of and greeted me every time they
developments within other healthcare
patients with cancer. I am particularly Deputy Director of Radiography, saw me thereafter. Some of the
professions.
pleased to see interdisciplinary School of Healthcare Studies, other friends I was with were
senior staff at the House of
Representatives in Washington
and were quite intrigued – so I
reckon that I (accidentally) did a
good PR job!”
Deaths
With regret the University records the
deaths of:
Professor Ursula R.Q. Henriques,
former Professor of History. A
contributor to the leading historical
journals in the English language, Ursula
was a very distinguished figure and a
great asset to the University’s History
department. A long-standing member
of the University, she generously
endowed both a postgraduate bursary
and an undergraduate prize.
Sheila Miller, a catering assistant
within the Campus Services Division,
who died on 28 November 2008.
Sheila worked for the division for
over 42 years and was described by
both managers and colleagues as an
excellent team member.
Obituaries appears on the University
Cardiff University radiotherapy students Kate Robertson, left, and Carol McDonald, right, demonstrate the new virtual suite to Health website at www.cardiff.ac.uk/for/
Minister, Edwina Hart. staff/obituaries.
10
PEOPLE
Cardiff People: John Pearce IN BRIEF…
The Staff Counselling Service
will be running a series of
Health & Well-Being workshops/
Professor John Pearce FRS
presentations for University staff,
I joined the Department of
on January 27, February 3, 4, 13,
Psychology of University College
17 and 24, March 3 and 11 and
Cardiff in 1980 as a lecturer. I rose
April 29. For details of the events,
through the ranks to be appointed
venues, times and how to book,
to a Personal Chair in 1992. My
see www.cf.ac.uk/cllng/forstaff/ .
research is directed at understanding
the nature of animal intelligence. I
was elected to the Royal Society in The pilot Certificate in Higher
2006 for my contribution to formal Education for Dental Nursing
theories of learning in animals. Now course has commenced at the
that our three children have left Postgraduate Dental Centre
home, my wife Victoria and I spend in Prince Charles Hospital in
our spare time endeavouring to trek Merthyr Tydfil. Paul Langmaid,
to remote places. Chief Dental Officer for Wales
gave an opening address and
What do you listen to first welcomed the students from
across Wales who are undertaking
thing in the morning?
the course. He said the course,
I regard the compact disc as one
run through the School of
of mankind’s finest inventions and
Postgradate Medical and Dental
usually listen to a CD as I travel to
Education, was an exciting
work. This morning I listened to a John Pearce having just described his latest theory to a group of seals in the
development – the first of its kind
truly awful country album entitled Galapagos Islands.
in Wales and the UK.
the Best of the Statler Bros which
inexplicably never fails to raise Most memorable encounter What one question would
my spirits. A perennial favourite is with a celebrity? you really like to know the India’s High Commissioner to
Beethoven. A current favourite is Britain, His Excellency Shiv
While at school I taught Joe answer to?
an English singer/songwriter, Thea Shankar Mukherjee, paid a visit
Strummer of the Clash to play rugby. What is my dog thinking about when
Gilmore. to the University to discuss the
I also looked after cousin Edward he looks at me, if anything? I fear development of further links
when he became ill from eating too that we shall never know the answer between Cardiff and India. He
Who inspired you on your much toothpaste. He grew up to be to this fundamentally important had the opportunity to meet with
“Fast”Eddie Clarke of Motorhead. question.
career path? students and senior members of
Jim Wright at Leeds University. He staff from the Business School,
opened my eyes to a new way of What thoroughly annoys you? Tell us a joke School of Engineering, Law
studying animal intelligence. Rather little. Shopping. John The one that amused my children School, and School of Journalism,
Humphrys on the Today programme. most when they were young is: Media and Cultural Studies. Full
Being told something is impossible. story at www.cf.ac.uk/news/india .
Which word do friends use “Two bishops in a bed, which one
Slow drivers. People who say
about you most? “Enjoy” - it is a transitive verb. wore the nightdress?” (Mrs Bishop)
At an age when most people
Because they are my friends, Filling in forms. Lights left on by my are thinking of settling down
they haven’t told me. But one of children. Rather a lot, really. Your favourite view in to retirement, Marian Williams
my students once wrote on their
the whole world (or the began taking courses at Cardiff
feedback form “John Pearce is a
What is your secret universe)? University’s Centre for Lifelong
lovely man - I wish he was my
Learning. Now a new book,
grandfather”. ambition? (just between us) I should like to say Lake Karambar
entitled The History of Lifelong
To drive a Series-1 Land Rover in the Hindu Kush, North Pakistan;
Learning at Cardiff University
across the Sahara. but based on the amount of time I
(1883-2008), based on research
spend gazing at it, the answer would
undertaken by Marian has just
seem to be the view from my office
What does the University been published to celebrate 125
window.
need more of? years of lifelong learning at
More PhD students. They are Cardiff University.
invariably great fun to work with,
Who would play you in the
and the future of research depends film about your life? Cardiff Law School and Hugh
upon them. More hours in the day. If Victoria is to watch the film, the James Solicitors beat off stiff
actor will have to be Daniel Craig. competition from across England
and Wales to win the Student
Which book did you re-read Team Award at the prestigious
most as a child? Law Society Junior Lawyers’
Ginger’s Adventures (Ladybird). Division 10th Anniversary Pro
A heart-warming story of a dog’s Bono Awards. The awards were
search for Tommy, his master. presented at a ceremony at the
John and Victoria Pearce in the Law Society in London.
Galapagos Islands
January 2009 11
Visit our website at www.cardiff.ac.uk
New partnership How well do you know
takes to the river your University?
The friendly fish featured in last month’s picture is one of a
A new sponsorship deal between Peter, a Lieutenant with the Royal number of intricate carvings to be found on the doors which
Cardiff University and Fly Navy Navy, rowed to victory as part of the connect the Committee Rooms in the Glamorgan Building.
– the Fleet Air Arm of the Royal men’s coxless four in the 2008 Beijing
Navy - has been launched by Olympic Olympics. The location will be revealed in next month’s issue and can
oarsman Peter Reed. also be found at the online version of Cardiff News at
At an official ceremony to mark the
new partnership Peter unveiled the
www.cardiff.ac.uk/news/jan09 .
names for two University boats – Sea Have you noticed an overlooked feature of the University
Vixen and Sea Fury, chosen by Fly campus? Please send suggestions or photographs for future
Navy after two of their aircraft.
issues to newsletter@cardiff.ac.uk.
The Rowing Club has received £5000
in sponsorship from Fly Navy, which
will be put towards purchasing a new
boat for the men’s squad.
Rowing Club President Penny
Challans said: “This new partnership
between Cardiff University Rowing
Club and Fly Navy is testament to the
Club’s growing reputation as a centre
of excellence. We were honoured that
(Above) Peter Reed launches Sea Fury with Peter Reed attended the ceremony
Rowing Club PR and Sponsorship Officer – hopefully some of our rowers
Vicky Williams Image: Rodrigo Sanchez will one day follow in his Olympic
(Below) In action with Cardiff Men’s VIII footsteps.”
What’s On Cardiff Centre for Lifelong Learning,
Senghennydd Road, 7.15pm, open
to all.
This is a sample of Cardiff University
events. Please visit www.cardiff. Tel: 029 2087 597
ac.uk/events for a full listing. Email: WyattD1@cardiff.ac.uk
Wednesday 28 January Tuesday 10 February
The Welsh Socialist Tradition Young, Muslim and British: an
from the 1880’s to the 1960’s introduction to a field
Part of a series of free Centre for the Study of Islam
Humanities seminars for in the UK seminar series
adult learners Speaker: Sadek Hamid, Programme
Speaker: Martin Wright Leader and Lecturer in Muslim
The Editor reserves the right to edit
Cardiff News contributions received. Whilst care is taken
(Cardiff University). Youth Work at the University of
Chester
Editor: Brian Richardson, Director to ensure the accuracy of information, this These lectures are intended to
Public Relations and Communications cannot be guaranteed. Views expressed in provide adult learners with a fresh Room 0.36 Humanities Building,
Division, Cardiff University, ‘Cardiff News’ do not necessarily reflect and up to the minute taster of the 7pm – 8pm, open to all.
46 Park Place, Cardiff CF10 3BB. those of the University. Items of interest kinds of research undertaken within Tel: 029 20 876125
ISSN 13355-3127, Vol 15 No 4 relating to the University and its staff are the Humanities at Cardiff University
welcome and should be sent to: Public
Email: Gilliat-Ray@cardiff.ac.uk
Copy deadline for next issue is 6 February and beyond.
Relations and Communications Division.
2009 for publication in February 2009
Tel: 029 2087 5596, Fax: 029 2087 0104,
Printed on 100% recycled paper. Email: newsletter@cardiff.ac.uk Address Label
Cardiff News is available in
large print format. To request
a copy contact Catrin Palfrey
on 029 2087 0293, email
PalfreyC@cardiff.ac.uk 100% Recycled
