January
The year began with an introduction to the University’s first Gaelic writer in residence. Bulletin spoke to Martin MacIntyre, the author, poet and storyteller who took up the new role for the next two years.
Introducing the University’s first Gaelic writer in residence | Bulletin
February
The centenary of the dedication of the University War Memorial in Old College Quad was marked on 19 February. Bulletin spoke to Jeremy Crang, Professor of Modern British History and Dean of Students in the College of Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences, to explore the history of the memorial.
From these gates of learning | Bulletin
To mark LGBT+ History Month in February, the Staff Pride Network shared some of their favourite films that showcase LBGT directors, screenwriters, producers and animators
March
In March, Bulletin spoke to Professor Iain Gordon, Vice-Principal and Head of the College of Science and Engineering, Professor Christina Boswell, Vice-Principal Research and Enterprise, and the Provost Professor Kim Graham, to find out more about the University’s strategic focus on climate responsibility and sustainability within the Senior Leadership Team.
Climate leadership at the University | Bulletin
We also heard from University of Edinburgh alumni Karis Gill and Aayush Goyal about Social Stories Club, a sustainable corporate gifting company that champions products from other social ventures across the UK.
April to July
Staffing changes meant a brief hiatus, but Bulletin was back in July with an interview with Filippo Menolascina, the Director of Research at the Bayes Centre, discussing how early-career academics can commercialise their research
Commercialising innovative research | Bulletin
August
In August, Alice Austin, the University’s Web Archivist, told Bulletin about how the practice of creative preservation fits into the modern workplace.
Saving the digital world | Bulletin
Bulletin also explored the sustainability ideals behind The Big Sort, where a small army of volunteers from the University’s Accommodation, Catering and Events team and the Edinburgh University Students’ Association move in to help clear student accommodation ready for the next generation of students.
September
September marked the return of students to campus and the start of a new academic year. Lorna Baird, Student Enterprise Manager, gave Bulletin an inside look at her role at Edinburgh Innovations, the University’s commercialisation service.
Inspiring the next generation | Bulletin
Bulletin also explored the University’s DecodeME study, which provides new insights into Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) and how it can be treated.
How the University is leading the world’s largest study of ME/CFS | Bulletin
October
In October, Bulletin marked Black History Month by celebrating a range of events marking individuals and events that have shaped African and Caribbean communities, and addressing the ongoing challenges facing Black communities in Britain and around the world.
Celebrating Black History Month at the University | Bulletin
Bulletin also spoke to Professor Mark Parsons, EPCC director, about how the University is pioneering the UK’s first next-generation supercomputer and the ways in which it could advance the fields of artificial intelligence, drug discovery, climate change, astrophysics and advanced engineering.
Pioneering a new era of UK supercomputing | Bulletin
In October, news of the escalating violence and loss of life in Israel and Palestine was deeply distressing, particularly for staff with connections to the Middle East. Reverend Dr Harriet Harris, the University Chaplain, and head of the Chaplaincy Service, shared insight on the importance and value of the Chaplaincy’s work during global emergencies and reflected on what it means to be a University of Sanctuary.
Supporting staff during times of crisis | Bulletin
November and December
A University event on neurodiversity was held in November as part of ongoing work with the Salvesen Mindroom Centre charity.
Learning to read through the lens of neurodiversity | Bulletin
At the end of 2023, the University community marked the festive season with a range of events including the Christmas tree lighting in Old College Quad and the Christmas carol service. Looking ahead to 2024, Student Development Manager Katerina Chatziioannou-Faulds gave an overview of the Employability Skills Expo event, which aims to provide an opportunity for students to gain insights into a variety of career paths, and network with professionals.