Dialogue issue 40

| APRIL / MAY 2015

40 years of Durham Drama Festival Festival Director, Izzie Price reflects on the Durham Drama Festival’s success. / Page 12

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ISSUE 40

Also in this issue: A one way ticket to Mars?

Lets make things happen

PhD student, Hannah Earnshaw, tells us what motivated her to apply to be a part of a permanent human settlement on Mars.

Take a look at the new campaign based style of communicating with prospective undergraduate students.

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/ Page 16

Dialogue 40 | April / May 2015

www.thedurhamdiary.wordpress.com @Durham_Uni

First and foremost I am delighted to say that we have now appointed our new ViceChancellor, Professor Stuart Corbridge, and we very much look forward to him joining us in September. In the meantime the rich variety of activities that routinely take place in the University continues, as evidenced in this issue of Dialogue.

And lastly, this summer Ustinov College is celebrating its 50th anniversary with a packed schedule of events. We are all invited to look at what’s on and to help mark this significant milestone in the College’s history.

With all best wishes

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As many of you will know, we are concerned with issues of gender balance and equality within the University and last month we joined many around the globe in celebrating International Women’s Day. Reflecting this, this issue features some of the women who are making a difference in our university and beyond, as well as providing a round-up of our Women in Science Week. You can read an interview with prospective Mars One mission participant Hannah Earnshaw, one of our Physics postgraduate students, and also a profile of Sally McGill, who arrived at the end of the last academic year to take up the key post of Chief Financial Officer.

If you haven’t already, I recommend that you look at our undergraduate webpages (www.durham.ac.uk/undergraduate) which have been updated as part of our new undergraduate student recruitment campaign. The campaign theme has recently been launched across a number of platforms and is to be used when reaching out to potential undergraduate students. You can find out more by turning to page 16.

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03 Announcing our new VC

Get Social

04 International

18 Museums and

05 Profile of Sally McGill

19 Event Durham,

Women’s Day 2015

06 A one way ticket to Mars?

08 Research Insights Using Research to Influence Policy

10 Durham Students’ Union 11 Spotlight on...

The School of Education

12 40 Years of Durham Drama Festival

14 50 Years of Ustinov College

Ray Hudson Acting Vice-Chancellor and Warden

16 Let’s Make Things Happen Attractions

Retail & Catering

20 HR News 21 CIS News 22 Procurement 23 Greenspace

Library News

24 Under Investigation

What’s On

EDITORS: Rebecca Grundy, Corporate Communications Officer.

Zoë Thomas, Marketing Projects Co-ordinator.

CONTRIBUTIONS: Sharon Battersby, CIS; Tara Duncan, Greenspace; Louise Elliott, Event Durham; Media Relations Team, Communications Office; Rachel Smith, Library; Chris Slade, Procurement; Karen Barrie, HR; Shelley McCormack, Durham Students’ Union; Hannah Francis, Equality and Diversity; Carl Bagley, School of Education; Izzie Price, Durham Drama Festival; Lynsey Finnemore, Ustinov College.

DESIGN: wearewarm.com PRINT: statex.co.uk FRONT COVER: Durham Drama Festival

Share your story...

If you have anything interesting coming up such as an event, lecture, news article, radio/TV appearance, etc. get in touch with zoe.thomas@durham.ac.uk

Vice-Chancellor and Warden After an extensive appointment process, Professor Stuart Corbridge has been confirmed as our new Vice-Chancellor and Warden. On 27 March, Senate endorsed and Council approved the selection panel’s unanimous recommendation for appointment.

Do you follow us on our social media channels?

We have compiled a list of our favourite posts, tweets and videos over the past two months to show you what has been happening around the University!

/durhamuniversity

Our favourite image comes from St Chad’s JCR as they prepare to welcome post-offer applicants to our visit days.

Commenting on his appointment Professor Corbridge said: “It will be a pleasure and an honour to work with colleagues to move the University forwards.”

A Fellow of both the Royal Geographical Society and of the Royal Society of Arts, Professor Corbridge has previously held roles at a number of universities, both nationally and internationally, including the University of Cambridge and the Maxwell School of Public Affairs at Syracuse University.

His major research interests include geopolitics, governance and public service delivery in India, forest politics and forest protection in India and the history of development thought.

We all look forward to welcoming Professor Corbridge as our new Vice-Chancellor for the start of the new academic year.

• A head of tomorrow’s #BBCHorizon watch Prof Carlos Frenk @DarkerMatters discuss #DarkMatter & his early career http://socsi.in/29eoS • A huge welcome to all those who are coming to our #DUVisitDay – we hope you enjoy your time with us!

• Paralympic athlete and @durham_uni student @GemmaCollis will be at the @ParalympicsGB #sportsfest in #Durham today http://socsi.in/DdpYh • Catch @GilesGasper on BBC Four discussing Britain’s Millennium of Monasteries http://socsi.in/f2iK3 • @durham_uni Angela Woods on @BBC Radio 4 Today Programme talking about @hearingvoice

VIDEO OF THE MONTH As part of Durham University’s Castle Lecture Series Professor Dame Jocelyn Bell-Burnell, Visiting Professor, Astrophysics, University of Oxford, delivered a lecture looking at how our understanding of the universe has changed/grown and what the future might hold. You can watch the lecture by visiting https://youtu.be/1I4yV2OY0vo

www.thedurhamdiary.wordpress.com

Professor Corbridge has an impressive personal research record and extensive experience in a range of leadership positions. He has overseen LSE’s research portfolio and led the School’s outstanding REF 2014 submission. He has also undertaken transformation in both the academic career structure and the student experience through the development of innovative new courses.

TOP FIVE TWEETS

DurhamUniversity

Professor Corbridge currently holds the position of Deputy Director and Provost at the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), and plans to take up his new position, here at Durham, on 1 September 2015.

@Durham_Uni

IMAGE OF THE MONTH

Dialogue 40 | April / May 2015

Celebrated annually on 8 March, International Women’s Day recognises the achievements of women everywhere, in all kinds of spheres, and reminds us to consider some of the inequalities many of these women still face.

This year Durham chose to mark it with a week-long series of events around the theme Women in Science. The participation of women in STEMM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Medicine) decreases at each stage of the career ladder, a loss which the University is committed to addressing through its participation in the Athena SWAN charter.

The Faculty of Science launched the week by showcasing the submissions to its photography competition in the Palatine Centre.

The competition was open to all students and asked them to address the themes of Women in Science and early career researchers. The winning entries, which were celebrated later in the week with a prizegiving ceremony, challenged stereotypes and showed women claiming the title ‘scientist’ in their own terms.

Elsewhere, STEMM departments across the University treated staff and students to a range of events that were both inspiring and challenging. Students from local schools explored some of the maths behind knot theory; undergraduate societies led discussions to raise awareness of gender issues in their fields; and staff and students enjoyed a variety of open lectures, some on gender in research, but most from eminent women speakers who talked about their cutting-edge research and reflected on their career paths, including the Faculty’s keynote lecture from Professor Anne Dell from Imperial College London on ‘The Sweet Things in Life’.

The week was rounded off with a talk from MP for Newcastle Central and former electrical engineer, Chi Onwurah. Chi’s talk, Women in STEMM, highlighted one of the ideas central to the theme of Women in Science - that innovation, which is at the heart of scientific endeavour, requires diversity, and if science is to meet the needs of humanity, it must first represent it more fully.

In addition to the Women in Science events, the Inspiring Women’s Network held a lunch and talk from Chief Financial Officer, Sally McGill. The event brought together academic and professional support staff, giving them the opportunity to network and reflect on routes to success.

The Centre of Sex, Gender and Sexualities and the Department of English Studies also hosted an international conference, 50 Years of Sexism: What Next?, which reflected on how far society has progressed since the coining of the term ‘sexism,’ and on the possible futures of the issue.

Thanks go to all involved in the events – organisers and participants.

The week was a true celebration of women, especially those in science, and plans are already underway for International Women’s Day 2016.

Sally McGill ill was appointed Last year, Sally McG l Officer. Read as our Chief Financia out Sally and her on to find out more ab w role. first months in her ne yourself.

Tell us a bit about most of my d, but I have lived I was born in Scotlan nt and almost Ke in rs yea luding 12 life in England, inc Magenta , ers ght I have two dau 30 in Manchester. emistry at Leeds Ch ng dyi stu is o who is 18, and wh Medical ethyst, 21, studying University; and Am ud that pro y ver I’m nchester. my Biochemistry at Ma STEM subjects. In dy stu to sen cho h they’ve bot fiction, but I find it e crim g tin wri oy spare time, I enj so it’s not a of my brain as work uses the same part baking and and g kin coo e e! I lov very relaxing pastim in by the aga ing to take up sew at have been inspired created by The Gre ng aki ssm dre in st revival of intere British Sewing Bee. Durham University?

What brought you to graduated from time in Durham. I This is my second ges) and went gua (Modern Lan Van Mildert in 1985 cy. Like many tan oun acc in eer off to pursue a car that I would i, I never imagined other Durham alumn n working bee had I k. come bac have the chance to , when I 08 20 ce sin Manchester at the University of ial Officer role in anc Fin ief Ch the saw the advert for am job in a 2014. It was my dre the THE in January ly! app I had to wonderful place, so few months here.

Describe your first and went to on the 1 July 2014 I arrived in Durham College during my t der Mil Van at graduation dinner le. It felt I had gone full circ first week. It felt like nths and mo er mm Su first few too quiet during the dents came back in stu the en wh s llou it was marve . I quickly the city centre to life September, bringing feels very ich wh e, her ryw eve got used to walking n, which is very central locatio healthy. I live in a

Chief Financial Officer events in the y handy for going to marvellous and ver sed by how friendly res imp I’m gs. nin colleges in the eve e an interest in people genuinely tak everyone is and how e. other people’s welfar ies for the role?

What are your priorit edented have seen an unprec The last five years sities are funded, ver uni how in s number of change e in the future. re changes to com with undoubtedly mo and is an tion uta rep a fantastic ain The University has is to help to maint role My nd. bra ng ion extremely stro lity of the organisat abi tain sus al nci the long-term fina My priorities es. tim ain ert unc be through what could e the financial we continue to hav are to ensure that deliver world class to lls ding and ski resources, understan an outstanding e ion, and to provid research and educat . student experience st in your life? or inspired you mo Who has influenced pe from d to be Lady Penelo took an As a child, I wante ndent woman who epe ind ng stro a – er Thunderbirds ations. As I got old situ ous ger dan s active role in variou models, but I role ale fem d goo find I found it harder to nages to balance le or female, who ma admire anyone, ma lly. sfu their life succes the various parts of

Dialogue 40 | April / May 2015

A ONE-WAY TIC Have you every wondered what it would be like to live on Mars? PhD student, Hannah Earnshaw, certainly has and could actually find out. She is one of 100 hopefuls to have been selected to proceed to the next round of the Mars One astronaut selection process. Read on to find out what motivated Hannah to apply to be part of a permanent human settlement on Mars…

Where does your interest in astronomy stem from?

I suppose from generally being interested in science from an early age. I then developed an interest in the study of planets and stars which I carried through school and on to studying Physics at university.

What are you researching for your PhD? I’m part of a small x-ray team within the Astronomy and Astrophysics research group, working with Dr Tim Roberts where I’m using x-ray astronomy to study black holes – or what are probably black holes!

What initially motivated you to apply to take part in the Mars One project?

When I initially came across the project I read their website and their aim to put people on Mars. My first instinct was that I wanted to help them to achieve this, and if that was to be as one of the colonists, then I would do it. I spent time thinking about whether I was the right person for the project, whether

it was actually feasible and whether I actually felt the project would go ahead.

To place a human colony on another planet is a massively transformative thing which will have a huge impact on the development of the human race. This will be looked back on as a milestone event – something that will shape the future. I felt that Mars One was the project to back as it is a worldwide effort, creating a group of otherwise ordinary people to experience something amazing.

How have your family and friends reacted to your application?

I have kept my family informed from when I first considered applying and they are taking the journey with me, supporting me at every stage. There are obviously many challenges of a one-way mission but we are determined to face these together. My friends are mostly incredibly excited for me. They are encouraging but also sad.

IMAGE: Hannah Earnshaw - © Monica Alcazar-Duarte.

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K E T T O M A R S? What does the next stage involve for you?

Have you ever considered pulling out of the process?

Until now the selection process has been very individuallyfocused. The next step is to look hard at how we operate in groups, for example how we handle stressful situations and conflict. This will be followed by an isolation test in the autumn where we will be put in groups in a mock-up of a habitat to see if we can cope with separation from the outside world. At the end of the next stage the final 100 will be cut to 24 candidates.

From time to time I have doubts but I think those moments are always going to happen – the most important thing is that they pass. Thinking about the bigger picture and the mission as a whole, I know it is what I want and so I keep my focus on that.

I am committed to doing this.

The training and preparation for the successful applicants is due to take a long time and likely to be very gruelling, why would you want to put yourself through that?

The Chief Medical Officer for Mars One has said that he wants to make the training as hellish as possible so that whatever we face on Mars will be much easier to deal with!

The training has to be tough because we will be living in a dangerous and unpredictable environment where we will spend the rest of our lives.

Even if I don’t go to Mars in the end, going through some of the training will provide me with some helpful skills for the future. Groundwork training in areas such as engineering and medicine can only be useful in life.

What excites you most about the prospect of taking part in the project?

I think it’s the idea of taking part in a project that is so ground breaking; the privilege of seeing the very beginnings of a new colony and of being part of the first few decades of what will become a huge part of human history. This is a proof of concept and if Mars One successfully build human civilisation on Mars, other groups will want to do it too. It is going to be an interesting and exciting period of history and I want to be a part of it.

Other than obviously your friends and family, what would you find hardest to leave behind on Earth?

I would miss travelling. I really enjoy visiting new places, trying the food, exploring the streets. Thankfully I’ve had a lot of opportunity to visit Europe over the past couple of years, and I have one or two more trips planned, so I’m definitely trying to make the most of the time I have to do so!

Dialogue 40 | April / May 2015

U S I N G R E S E A R C H TO I N F L U E N C E P O L I C Y In February this year, the Criminal Justice and Courts Bill became law, making the possession of ‘rape pornography’ a criminal offence.

Research by Professor Clare McGlynn of Durham Law School, and Professor Erika Rackley (formerly Durham Law School, now at Birmingham University) played an important part in convincing politicians that this law should be passed. Their research was one of Durham Law School’s impact case studies, which was awarded the highest grade of 4-star, signifying ‘outstanding’, in the Research Excellence Framework.

Professor Clare McGlynn (pictured, right) explains their journey: Our research stemmed from a project which began almost ten years ago, after the UK Government and Scottish Executive launched a consultation exercise on a proposed new law to criminalise the possession of extreme pornography.

Generally the justification for new criminal laws tends to focus on the protection of individuals from physical harm - but we wanted the law to address the issue of ‘cultural harm’.

Our research showed that the easy availability of rape pornography on the internet generates a form of ‘cultural harm’ against many women, and fails to take sexual violence seriously. As a result we argued that the definition of extreme pornography should include images of rape.

To influence the Scottish consultation and legislative processes into making this change,

we shared our findings with Members of the Scottish Parliament and relevant government ministers and departments. In 2010, the Scottish Parliament adopted a new criminal law which specifically covered rape pornography. When asked about the decision to frame the law in this way the Justice Directorate referred directly to the letter that we had sent to the Minister of Justice.

During this time we worked with groups campaigning for rape images to be outlawed and one group, Rape Crisis Scotland, said that our research was ‘particularly useful’ in directing their campaign, which stressed the idea that images of rape caused ‘cultural harm’.

When the Scottish Parliament made the changes to the law, the UK Government said it did not ‘feel it appropriate or necessary’ to extend the law to cover pornographic images of rape.

Clearly, we didn’t agree with this and we were determined to see a reform to English law. We emailed specially prepared briefing documents to politicians who were interested in this work. We met with MPs who responded and those who had previously worked with our nonacademic partners, including Rape Crisis (South London) and End Violence Against Women (EVAW).

We also worked with various journalists to get out our key messages and used social media and blogs to generate interest in our proposed changes to the law.

07 09 Our persistence paid off.

In July 2013, Prime Minister David Cameron announced that the Government would “close the loophole” in the legislation “making it a criminal offence to possess internet pornography that depicts rape.” EVAW said that Durham’s research was “absolutely fundamental to securing the high profile commitment by the Prime Minister.”

On Thursday 12 February 2015, the announcement became reality when the Bill received royal assent. Whilst this is a

positive result, it is crucial that the Government publicises the new law and works with the police and prosecutors to ensure its effective implementation.

Ultimately, while the law is a welcome addition in the array of legal tools with which to tackle the abuse and humiliation of women, what is really needed is cultural change. We need to see a shift in societal attitudes so that the culture of hostility and aggression that feeds and underpins rape porn is condemned.

TOP TIPS FOR ENGAGING WITH POLICY MAKERS

ENGAGING WITH POLICY MAKERS Jennifer Jeffes, the University’s Senior Policy Engagement Manager, shares her top tips on how to engage with policy makers.

WRITE FOR YOUR AUDIENCE Policy makers rarely have time to read journals, so be prepared to get your message across in other ways. A clear research briefing containing practical recommendations for changing policy can be very effective. Be creative in how you present your findings, using visuals and quotations to bring your research to life. Follow this link to see some great examples from the Law School: www.durham.ac.uk/law/policyengagement

TALK TO THE RIGHT PEOPLE In the UK, you may wish to contact interested MPs and members of the House of Lords. Parliament’s website (www. parliament.uk) has lots of information to help with this. Don’t forget to talk to civil servants too, as most policy is initiated in government departments (www.gov.uk). Think outside of the box when it comes to getting your voice heard – can you use social media, or hold an event, for example?

PRESENT THE RIGHT RESEARCH Consider the types of evidence that are most needed in your area of policy interest. Is your audience looking for case studies to highlight a particular campaign issue, innovative ideas for a new policy initiative, or something else altogether?

Be selective and invest your time and effort only into promoting the aspects of your research that will be of interest to policy makers.

PUT YOUR RESEARCH IN CONTEXT Many policy makers are generalists so context can make it easier for them to understand the implications of your research. Be clear how your research relates to historical and current policy developments, and don’t be afraid to present an argument rather than just your latest research findings.

TIMING MATTERS Remember that it takes time to build relationships with policy makers, so start as early as possible. Any time invested now will make things easier later on!

Visit www.publicengagement.ac.uk for further ideas and resources.

Dialogue 40 | April / May 2015

DURHAM STUDENTS GIVE IT A GO The Students’ Union run a Give it a Go programme of activities each term, where students can come along and try different activities organised by our student groups. This year the programme has got bigger and better. Formerly Give it a Go would consist of a week of activities each term. This year the programme has been rolled out throughout the year, to give students an opportunity to try something new every single week during term time. This gives students the chance to sign up outside of the traditional start of term push.

To make the programme even better, we have also taken the programme out to colleges. This makes it even easier for different students to get involved in the activities. Activities have been hosted by a range of colleges bringing our fantastic groups to new and different students.

The timetable for each term has been made up of a variety of activities. Students have had the chance to try active groups such as yoga, mixed martial arts, or breakdancing; hobby groups such as scouts and guides, or baking; getting involved with political and cause groups, such as Stop the trafficking of people, or the feminist society; and musical groups such as African Singing and Drumming or DJ society; to name a few.

There have also been some more unusual activities to try such as horcrux hunting with Harry Potter society, tightrope walking with slacklining or life drawing speed dating with the art society.

Joely Charlton, Activities Officer at the Union who is responsible for running and improving the programme comments: “Over the last two terms we have held more than 40 different Give it a Go events. These have seen over 650 students getting involved and trying something new. These have taken place in Queen’s Campus, Hatfield, Van Mildert, Trevelyan, St Chad’s, St Cuthbert’s, Josephine Butler, St John’s St Mary’s and St Aidan’s, as well as in the Students’ Union.

During Easter term our Give it a Go programme will meet our Work Smart campaign and we will organise a range of Give it a Go activities each week to help you take stress relieving or relaxing breaks from your studies.”

Find out what we’ve got planned on our website www.durhamsu.com

Find out more about what your Union has to offer at www.durhamsu.com /durhamSU

@durhamSU

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Spotlight on...

THE SCHOOL OF EDUCATION Describe your School in one sentence.

We are a vibrant and collegial environment of leading scholars, dedicated to finding out what underpins effective education and working towards putting those principles in place for all learners.

What are the three main things people should know about the School of Education?

1. We are a top five ranked School of Education for our research. As well as having backing from traditional educational research funders such as the ESRC, Erasmus, Education Endowment Fund, Nuffield Foundation and Gatsby Foundation, we also have funded projects from the NHS, EPSRC, and AHRC. 2. In its association with the College of St Hild and St Bede we have links with teacher education – now with programmes in both Durham and Queen’s Campus – stretching back nearly 175 years and rated Outstanding by Ofsted.

3. W e achieved 100% for student satisfaction in the last two years’ National Student Survey (NSS).

What three words do you most associate with or best describe the School of Education?

Excellence, inclusiveness and fairness.

What is your main objective as a School/what do you want to achieve?

To be a place where internationally renowned researchers and educators are fighting over themselves to come and work!

What would you say is your main challenge?

Externally: responding to the political vagaries around the role of HEI in Initial Teacher Education.

Internally: the state of the current Leazes Road estate and the need for extensive refurbishment, renovation and rebuild.

What does the future look like for the School of Education?

“We can either let it happen, make it happen, or wonder what happened” (Richardson). We are working on the second.

DID YOU KNOW…?

A number of staff within the School sit on Government advisory committees and report to Select Committees.

Find out more... www.durham.ac.uk/education @DUSofE

Dialogue 40 | April / May 2015

IMAGES: A variety of images taken from the Durham Drama Festival between 4–7 February 2015.

40 YEARS OF DURHAM DRAMA FESTIVAL Between 4–7 February 2015, the 40th anniversary of Durham Drama Festival (DDF) took place. This year’s Festival Director, Izzie Price reflects on the Festival’s success.

The week involved ten shows, four industry professional judges, a special guest of honour, six professionally led workshops, a launch party and an awards ceremony. The week was an enormous success, and as this year’s Festival Director I can say I am so proud of everyone involved (over 60 students, from all years) and what we have achieved.

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The plays featured every genre of theatre you can possibly think of. There was naturalistic comedy, black comedy, period drama, verbatim theatre, physical theatre, immersive theatre and even a one-man show. The venues we used utilised as many areas of Durham as possible. We did of course make use of our very own Assembly Rooms theatre for three of the shows, and for another three we constructed our very own black box theatre. The remaining four took place in Durham Cathedral, the Norman Chapel, St John’s College and Empty Shop.

This year we were incredibly honoured as the four judges who kindly agreed to come to the festival not only watched every show and offered feedback, but also led workshops focusing on their own particular area of expertise.

This year TV writer and actress, Charlie Covell led a workshop on Writing for Screen and Acting for Screen. Charlie is currently writing for the new Channel 4 series Banana Tofu Cucumber, and has previously written for the BBC and acted in the Inbetweeners. Jethro Compton, Theatre Producer and head of Jethro Compton Ltd who created the Bunker Trilogies delivered

a workshop on How to create a theatre company. Hector Macpherson-Brown, who is a Theatre Producer specifically focusing on international theatre festivals, led a workshop on Theatre Producing, and finally Tinuke Craig delivered a workshop on Auditioning for Drama School. Tinuke is a Theatre Director who has worked at LAMDA and the Young Vic, and who was also our National Student Drama Festival (NSDF) selector.

This year’s inaugural guest of honour was film producer Pippa Cross (Summer in February, Chalet Girl, Shooting Dogs) who kindly came up on the last day to lead a workshop on How to Make it into the British Film Industry. Despite it being ‘summative season,’ all the workshops were attended by at least 20 students which just goes to show the interest in and passion for the creative industry that Durham students have.

The judges kindly gave out awards at the end of the week at our black tie awards ceremony, which took place in Hatfield College. Congratulations to the winners of Best Show (Ozymandias by Hugh Train – the one man show), Best Writing (Winston

by Durham Alumni Caitlin McEwan – a

naturalistic comedy) and all the other successful winners (there were eight awards in total).

Finally, we are delighted with the national recognition our plays received. This is largely due to our NSDF recognition from Tinuke. Congestion (the verbatim play) has been selected to be performed at NSDF 2015 – bearing in mind they have hundreds of applications every year, and only 11-16 shows get selected, this is an incredible achievement not only for Durham Student Theatre but for the University as a whole. A further ten individuals were selected from the various performance areas of the Festival to attend as members of the company, in recognition of their outstanding work. Finally, two of our plays The Night Watch and Swing by Around 8 will be going to the Edinburgh Fringe later on in the year. At the Fringe, The Night Watch will be mentored by Jethro Compton and performed at his venue which is an incredible opportunity for a student production.

Once again I would like to say how proud I am of this year’s enormous success, and I’m sure that DDF will only continue to go from strength to strength each year.

Dialogue 40 | April / May 2015

2015 marks the 50th Anniversary of Ustinov College, formerly the Graduate Society. Commencing 12 June we will be celebrating 50 years as a postgraduate student community.

The Graduate Society was the brainchild of Bill Fisher, Professor of Geography, who forged this idea, rumour has it, during a dinner at Durham Castle with a view to the Society becoming the focal point of Durham’s postgraduate student population.

In its inaugural year of 1965, the Graduate Society admitted 94 students, representing 14 nationalities and 17 Academic Departments. Our buildings were scattered throughout Durham City until 1998 when eight halls of residence, named after local trees, and the ‘barn’ transformed ‘Howlands Farm’ near the Botanic Gardens allowing 200 students to move into purpose-built accommodation. In 2005, family accommodation was acquired at Dryburn Court and in 2006 four more accommodation blocks were added to the Howlands Farm site.

In 2003, the Graduate Society officially became Ustinov College, in honour of Sir Peter Ustinov, former Chancellor of the University and actor, writer, humanitarian, and UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador. Sir Peter travelled the world on behalf of UNICEF and UNESCO to publicise their work, lobbying governments to recognise the rights of children. He was a strong believer that education was fundamental for openness, tolerance and mutual respect and a way of increasing awareness of prejudice.

Following in Sir Peter’s footsteps of exploring the possibilities for “just and democratic global governance”, Ustinov College has created a Global Citizenship Programme (GCP) to help students develop the attributes of a global citizen through research and scholarship. The GCP runs a variety of student-led interdisciplinary and inter-cultural projects, designed to foster our student community and enable our students to become 21st century global citizens.

Our College has flourished since Professor Bill Fisher’s vision of a postgraduate community in the 1960s. Today Ustinov College has a total student population in excess of 1700, representing 100 countries, conducting research or studying taught programmes in over 100 subjects.

Ustinov College is a place postgraduate students can call home – a vibrant, safe and multinational community – supporting academic excellence and offering an unrivalled postgraduate student experience.

To celebrate our 50th year you are very welcome to join us in June when we will be hosting a series of events designed to reflect on our past, celebrate the present and enthusiastically look forward to our future. See the next page for a diary of events.

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Ustinov College is a place postgraduate students can call home – a vibrant, safe and multinational community – supporting academic excellence and offering an unrivalled postgraduate student experience.

Friday 12 June

50th Anniversary Formal Dinner

Saturday 13 June

Café and Seminar Series will explore with the Ustinov Intercultural Forum (UIF) ‘if Global Citizenship is possible’

Monday 15

The GCR screening of Sir Peter Ustinov double feature

Thursday 18 June

Café des Arts will take you on a journey of music and dance from around the world

Saturday 20 June

Family Fête – this will have you taking part in threelegged races and other games from around the world!

Monday 22 June

The GCR Screening of Sir Peter Ustinov double-feature’s

Tuesday 23 June

Examining cutting edge research at Durham with Café Scientifique

Tuesday 23 June

Café Politique, and Race, Crime and Justice will debate ‘Women in Politics, Academia and Business’

Sunday 28 June

Graduate Common Room (GCR) will be hosting their Summer BBQ which will have live music, fairground rides and a bouncy castle.

Find out more...

To find out more information and get involved with our celebrations please visit: www.durham.ac.uk/ustinov.college/50years

Dialogue 40 | April / May 2015

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Our official University blog The Durham Diary is writt en by students and can be foun www.thed urhamdiary.wo d at rdpress.co m

Follow @du rham_uni for all the academic latest news and events. #DUmakei

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Undergraduate Student Communications

During March, a new campaign based style of communicating with prospective undergraduate students was launched to coincide with the first UCAS Convention in Belfast.

The main aim of this is to show the strong link between our worldleading research, our approach to research-led education and graduate employability and this style is being rolled out across the University.

WHY HAS THIS BEEN DEVELOPED? A review of our international reputation was undertaken to understand how we are perceived globally (versus comparators), what impact perceptions have on our reputation and to support the development of a clear market and brand positioning for the organisation.

The results of the review indicated that to enhance our international reputation our brand needs to be: • Led by Durham’s research capabilities; • Seen as innovative, leading and forward thinking.

WHAT IS IT? Developed by Warm Design, one of the University’s approved partners for design, a new creative theme (which can be adopted across printed materials, web and social media) illustrates the link between research and education and the benefit our approach provides to students in terms of their future employability, whilst also communicating our vibrant student experience. This is achieved through all elements of communication – from design, layout and use of colour, to imagery and the tone used. Communication tone uses short, sharp

inspirational messages to engage the viewer. The messages are intended to motivate, to inspire and to be unashamedly bold. The new undergraduate prospectus (pictured) adopts this approach on the cover, and continues to utilise this style throughout. The new Music Department guide, International student offer guide, and pre-application open days poster have also been developed within the new style and examples are included for you to see. The style has also been applied to the undergraduate webpages at www.durham.ac.uk/ undergraduate

INTEGRATION WITH SOCIAL MEDIA We have also introduced a campaign hashtag #DUmakeithappen to be used on all social media activity targeting prospective undergraduate students to stimulate engagement via social media.

A series of short films have been produced of around 10 seconds, featuring Durham students and graduates holding a board featuring the hashtag #DUmakeithappen and telling us what they are making happen. They are very simple to produce and we already have a number of films that we are now promoting, but we need more and are always looking for new ideas/content so if anything comes to mind that you think would be relevant please do let us know!! This could be projects or fieldwork students have been involved in, placements/ internships or extra-curricular activities. We don’t need you to do the filming, simply contact us with details of what they have done and we will do the rest!

IMAGES: Front cover and inner spread from the undergraduate prospectus, pre-application open days poster.

THIS REVISED STYLE HAS BEEN DEVELOPED FOR USE SPECIFICALLY WHEN COMMUNICATING WITH PROSPECTIVE UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS.

HOW CAN I GET INVOLVED? This revised style has been developed for use specifically when communicating with prospective undergraduate students, so will be relevant to anyone who is looking to update existing, or develop new, materials in this area.

Whilst this new creative theme has been developed by Warm Design, all of the University’s external design partners have been briefed on this and would be able to advise and help you to develop your recruitment materials to fit within this new approach.

Using the new hashtag (and using it in your own social media activity) is a great way to showcase what your students are doing and the impact they are making.

If you have any questions, would like to discuss this further, or have ideas for #DUmakeithappen you can contact the Marketing Team, based within the Communications Office via marketing.team@durham.ac.uk

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Museums and Attractions THE BOTANIC GARDEN Explorer backpacks (subject to availability) are available from the Botanic Garden Visitor Centre each month, so come along and see what you can discover. Each month has a different theme, there is no need to pre-book, activities are generally suitable for children aged 5-11 years, and any under 16s must be accompanied by an adult, 10am to 5pm daily.

WHAT ARE THE THEMES OVER THE NEXT FEW MONTHS? APRIL – Signs of Spring MAY – Beautiful Birds JUNE – Fabulous Flowers JULY – Signs of Summer AUGUST – Marvellous Mini-beasts These are just a few of the many activities available.

Visit www.durham.ac.uk/whatson for further information.

MUSICON As part of the Musicon concert series for 2014/15 the Brodsky Quartet will be performing on Tuesday 28 April at 7.40pm in the Music School at Palace Green.

The Brodsky Quartet formed in 1972 and has performed over 3,000 concerts and release more than 60 recordings. A natural curiosity and an insatiable desire to explore has propelled the group in a number of artistic directions and continues to ensure them not only a prominent presence on the international chamber music scene, but also a rich and varied musical existence. Their energy and craftsmanship has attracted numerous awards and accolades worldwide, while ongoing educational work provides a vehicle for passing on experience and staying in touch with the next generation.

Tickets cost £10, Students £4, Under 18s £1 and can be bought via Tel: 0191 33 43140. The event is supported by the Radcliffe Trust.

UNIVERSITY LIBRARY The University Library Learning Team runs a varied programme of workshops and activities for school children of all ages. During the last academic year they worked with nearly 22,000 children on subjects as varied as Ancient Egypt, the First World War, Victorian Homes and Life in a Castle. Changes to the National Curriculum has allowed the team to expand their offer taking full advantage of the recently opened Living on the Hills gallery to deliver sessions on Prehistory, Anglo-Saxons, Vikings and Ancient Greece.

Central to the work of the team is getting children to engage with the University’s collections and the latest research, pick up independent learning skills, and leave with a positive experience of University life.

Feedback from teachers and children alike is overwhelmingly positive with schools visiting from as far afield as Manchester and Doncaster, and with each day being fully booked until after Easter it looks as though this year will be just as busy.

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Event Durham, Retail and Catering

Catering NEW SPRING MENU With Spring under way; we have introduced a range of new sandwiches, salads and toasted sandwiches into our commercial cafés, the Botanic Garden Café and Café on the Green.

Freshly made sandwiches are served every day. We’ve kept some popular classics such as ham and piccalilli or the roast beef, watercress and horseradish, while adding in some new varieties such as the Wensleydale, carrot and spring onion savoury or prawns wrapped in crème fraîche with radish and mustard cress.

and garden leaf salad with pickled new potatoes, cucumber, dill and crispy capers.

If a toasted sandwich is more your choice we have smoked bacon, chicken & Northumberland cheddar melt, roast pulled pork with apple and sage & onion stuffing or sweet roasted bell pepper, basil humous & spinach.

Our range of five new salads offers something for everyone, including: Creamy buffalo mozzarella pearls, plum tomatoes and marinated aubergine salad topped with crunchy focaccia croutons and finished with a drizzle of balsamic dressing and smoked salmon

Event Durham Event Durham is made up of several teams who look after different areas. Our Corporate Events Team consists of team members Amber Colclough, Emma Humble and Louise Bellenger. The team provide a seamless event management service, primarily to senior colleagues within the University, to enable the University to achieve its strategic aims.

This involves managing and leading major corporate events, high profile strategic events and visits, and projects like the Celebrate Science Festival. Upcoming events include Development and Alumni Relations Office (DARO) Military Scholarship at the Cavalry and Guards Club in London, the launch of the Magna Carta Exhibition, The Acting Vice-Chancellor’s Summer Garden Party, Sir Thomas Allen Cathedral Concert and Durham University Business School (DUBS) 50th Anniversary Celebrations in London.

Retail Easter at the Botanic Garden is set to be the best yet with new ranges being released and wonderful gift ideas ready for when you visit with the family this Easter. Don’t miss out on buying some wonderful gifts as they are getting snapped up quickly!

Competitions and Prizes! Help us to improve our products and service by reviewing us at www.shop.durham.ac.uk or on our Durham University Retail Office Facebook page. If you leave a review you will be entered into a prize draw this spring to win some of our Durham University official merchandise.

New Merchandise! We are continuing to explore new and exciting merchandise options. If you have an idea about what you would like to see in our online shop then please post on our Facebook page or drop us an e-mail: shop@durham.ac.uk Like us on Facebook: Durham University Retail Office Follow us on Twitter: @DurhamUniRetail Follow us on Instagram: @DurhamUniRetail

HR news...

PEOPLE+

Which staff will have access to People + Portal?

The roll out will be phased in three tranches. Tranche 1 CIS, Engineering, Finance and HR, these teams received access to People+ Portal on 31 March. Tranche 2 - the rest of Professional Support Service departments and Tranche 3 - Academic Departments and Colleges; will get access on 30 April and 29 May respectively.

At this stage, staff without access to a PC in their working day will not be able to access People+ Portal. Generally, this

HR, Finance, CIS, Engineering

APRIL Remainder of Professional Services

MAY Tranche3

People+ Portal will give staff access to the personal details that the University add for them. You will be able to view and update information such as your contact details, payments and other personal details. You will also be able to view information about your contract of employment; making it easier to keep your own staff record accurate and up to date.

MARCH Tranche2

What is the People+ Portal?

includes staff in Grades 1 and 2, though there are some exceptions to this such as casual workers and apprentices, and should they have changes to their personal situation they should pass this information on to their supervisor.

Tranche1

Following ‘go live’ of People+ last September, we are now releasing enhanced system functionality and rolling out our People+ Portal across the University. So far, feedback on People+ has been very positive. Users report that they have found it to be intuitive and easy to use. The project team hopes that People+ Portal will also be positive for staff – a comprehensive user guide is available and a dedicated team are on hand to help.

Academic Community and Colleges

What happens next?

All staff receive an email detailing what the changes mean for them. If you are in Tranche 1, you will have already received information, including a user guide. Staff in Tranche 2 and those staff without access to a PC, will receive this information by the end of April. Staff in Tranche 3 will receive information by the end of May. Any questions?

Please contact the project team on peopleplus.project@ durham.ac.uk or visit www.durham.ac.uk/hr/peopleplus

USS Consultation and Pensions Seminars If you are a member of the USS pension scheme (or may be a member in the future) please read the information on our webpages at www.durham.ac.uk/hr/paypensionsreward/ proposedusschanges. USS is open to all contracted staff in Grade 6 or above. In March, we hosted a number of Pensions Seminars for staff with independent pensions advisors, Mercers, on the potential changes and impact.

If you were unable to attend, a video of the presentation is available on our webpage.

You can also access the USS consultation page at www. ussconsultation.co.uk/members - this page allows you to view a video, access Q&As, read the consultation documents and provides a modeller for you to assess your pension benefits and the impacts of the changes. This is also where you can give your response to the consultation.

The consultation period runs until Friday 22 May 2015.

Goodbye Jill (and thank you!)

Our University Nursery Manager, Jill Johnston, retired on 2 April after over 35 years of service. Since 1990, Jill has managed the University Nursery and will be well known and loved by many members of staff and their children.

For information about the University Nursery (for children aged 0 to 5) or to arrange a visit go to www.durham.ac.uk/ university.nursery

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CIS news...

Find out more...

CIS - Get Lync-ed in!

visit www.durham.ac.uk/cis

In this issue we’re going to put the spotlight on a couple of our services which could help you to work more effectively and flexibly both in and out of the office.

Instant messaging with Lync “Using Lync helped me to work more effectively with colleagues on both campuses. I was also able to make postgraduate (research) students feel more included in seminars when they were working remotely.”

Dr Andrew Joyce-Gibbons, School of Education Lync is our brand new service for staff which provides a wealth of opportunities to work with colleagues in a single, neatly formed package. With Lync you can: •C heck the presence of your colleagues at a glance to find out if they are free to talk, away from their desk or busy; • Hold an instant message conversation both one-to-one and group chat at the click of a button;

• Work collaboratively by sharing files or your full desktop wherever you and your collaborators are based; • (with the right kit – camera and headset) turn your instant message conversation into an audio or video conference in seconds; •C onnect with both University staff and your external contacts using a single application.

If you have a CIS Managed Desktop PC, Lync is already deployed to it.

If you’ve not yet given it a try, visit our website to find out how to open it for the first time and what it can do for you: www.durham.ac.uk/cis/ services/lync Lync is one of the great new ways of working being introduced by our New World Programme. To find out more about all the work we’re doing, visit: www.durham.ac.uk/cis/nwp

MDS…

Anywhere you like!

If you are a CIS Managed Desktop (MDS) user and work away from the office finding yourself having to juggle USB sticks and multiple versions of your files - you’ll be keen to hear about our remote desktop service, MDS Anywhere.

MDS Anywhere provides a secure ‘window’ into the University from wherever you are, with access to the ‘basics’ – your email, J and S drives and Microsoft Office applications (plus a few extras). So you can get to everything you need when you’re not at the office – no need to save files in a different place or to email them to yourself ever again!

To use MDS Anywhere, or to find out more, just visit our website: www.durham.ac.uk/cis/mds/mdsanywhere We are constantly looking to provide services that help you go further faster, and more services will be coming soon.

Procurement

PROCUREMENT INSURANCE SERVICE WEBSITE – TRAVEL COVER For all your queries regarding the University travel cover and how to apply for it, please visit the Travel Cover section of the new Insurance Service website at www.durham.ac.uk/procurement/ local/insuranceservice/travelcover. If you have any queries that are not answered by the information on the website then please contact either Barbara Dick at b.k.dick@durham.ac.uk or Jim Manley at d.j.manley@durham.ac.uk

INSURANCE RENEWAL AND CLAIMS MADE LIABILITY DECLARATION Many of you will have been contacted by the insurance staff to ask for details of your department’s activities or to advise of any circumstances that are known that could lead to a claim against the University.

It is essential that this information is provided to the Insurance Service for inclusion within the annual insurance renewal return. Failure to provide this information could mean that your departmental activities or research is not appropriately covered, or if a claim is received by the University from a circumstance that should have been declared but wasn’t, we may well be without the backing of our insurance arrangements and the University will then have to meet the cost of the claim.

NEW CONTRACTS Procurement Service has renewed contracts for the provision of agency staff. The new agreement seeks to consolidate a number of disparate contracts which should make the provision of temporary staff easier for hiring managers.

We have also renewed the contract for Uniforms, although the Corporate and Workwear lot is currently out to tender. Arco are continuing to provide this provision.

For further information on these contracts, and all others, please visit www.durham.ac.uk/procurement/local/buyers_guide

STAFFING CHANGES Procurement Service has recently had some staff changes, one being the promotion of Chris Slade to the position of Trainee Category Manager. Whilst managed by the Senior Category Manager (Estates), Chris will be working across all categories undertaking high value tendering, contract management and assisting with the creation of Procurement’s category plans in conjunction with our Strategic Sourcing Strategy.

GOVERNMENT OPPORTUNITY AWARDS We were one of three shortlisted at the Government Opportunity Awards in the Leadership category. We enjoyed a pleasant evening at the Midland Hotel in Manchester in February to celebrate this achievement.

FUNDRAISING ACTIVITIES Later this year, Procurement Service will be arranging and taking part in some fundraising activities on behalf of The Great North Air Ambulance in recognition of the support they provided to one of our colleagues who was involved in a very serious road traffic accident back in October 2014. We hope to raise both funds and awareness in aid of this charity.

PROCUREMENT TRAINING A reminder about the training sessions we regularly run.

Places on our purchasing card reconciliation course, insurance travel cover workshop and acquire training can be booked via the HR training website. For further details, please visit www.durham.ac.uk/training.course/procurement

Library news

WORK SMART During the Easter term, the Bill Bryson Library and Queen’s Campus Library will be open 24/7 so you can use the Library to revise whenever you need to, but if you’re studying in the Library, make sure you Work Smart!

The Library has teamed up with Durham Students’ Union again this year to bring you information and advice during the run up to exams in our Work Smart campaign.

We’re helping you to manage your revision by giving away Revision Planners in the Library and Durham Students’ Union, along with your college welfare reps, are providing free relaxation activities to help you take time out. Look out for our tips on studying effectively – and we’ll be sharing some student tips from last year’s campaign too!

Tickets have gone on sale for a special exhibition at Palace Green Library to mark the 800th anniversary of the sealing of Magna Carta.

Magna Carta and the Changing Face of Revolt will be on display at Palace Green Library from 1 June to 31 August 2015. The exhibition will take will take the only surviving 1216 issue of the charter, on loan from Durham Cathedral, as a starting point for exploring the history of rebellion and revolt.

Magna Carta was the outcome of an act of revolt by barons who, in their political engagement, acted as rebellious citizens rather than loyal subjects. The exhibition will explore the history of revolt and the contested concept of citizenship. Who has the right to speak and act against authority, and are there limits on what citizens can say and do?

Entrance to the exhibition is via timed tickets and advance booking via Ticketmaster is recommended.

Find out more... www.durham.ac.uk/palace.green/magnacarta

Greenspace...

This term’s Waste Aware Campaign prompted all university members to ensure that they reduce levels of waste where possible and dispose of all waste correctly.

The Slim Your Bin competition generated excellent responses – the pledges made would together save over 600 carrier bags, 600 bottles and 400 paper cups a year (Not to mention the thousands of pieces of paper)!

Useful guidance in relation to waste can be found on the campaign webpage at www.durham.ac.uk/greenspace/ waste-managementwastecampaign

WATER AWARE The importance of water conservation was publicised during February with top tips and helpful facts available on the Water Awareness webpage: www.durham.ac.uk/greenspace/energy /watersave/wateraware Make sure that you are doing your bit to conserve this essential resource.

FAIRTRADE REACCREDITATION The University kicked off Fairtrade Fortnight with the good news that it had successfully maintained its Fairtrade reaccreditation. This is excellent news and the University’s commitment to Fairtrade was further demonstrated by the record number of sign ups to its Big Fairtrade Bake seeing hundreds of staff and students turning Fairtrade ingredients into delicious bakes. Thanks go to all involved in the reaccreditation process and in running the many bakes, samplings and offers that took place throughout Fairtrade Fortnight.

www.thedurhamdiary.wordpress.com @Durham_Uni

April Carol Ann Duffy - Poetry Reading by the Poet Laureate Durham Castle Lecture Series 2014/15 Wednesday 29 April, 7.45pm Durham Castle

Hannah Francis Policy Support Officer (Equality and Diversity) Have you got any pets?

I have two very spoilt house rabbits, Bonnie and Jaffa, and teeth marks in all my possessions.

What are you reading at the moment?

A few different books on Buddhism alongside Dream Work by Mary Oliver.

On a scale of 1-10, how much do you care what other people think of you?

8 or 9? Certainly more than I’d like.

What’s your greatest vice?

I’m a pudding monster.

Carol Ann will be accompanied by musician John Sampson for this magical poetry reading. Tickets available from Wednesday 8 April.

May

What’s your favourite film?

Willow.

Joking Jesters from Seven Stories Saturday 9 & Sunday 10 May, 1pm – 3pm Palace Green Library

Any nicknames?

My Nan called me Princess Narnia because I used to watch The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe on a weekly basis.

Seven Stories, the National Centre for Children’s Books, bring their Armchair Journey to Palace Green Library this weekend with hilarious stories for all the family.

What was your best subject?

I was awesome at everything.

What’s the worst job you’ve ever done?

I worked in Poundland when I was seventeen. I lasted about two weeks.

Annual Friends of the Garden Plant Sale Monday 25 May, 10am – 4pm Botanic Garden

When was the last time you laughed and why?

30 seconds ago answering the question above.

What’s your favourite place in the world?

My attic room. It has lovely views and is where I start and fail to finish my numerous craft projects.

A wide selection of plants, seeds and cacti will be available to purchase at this year’s popular annual sale.

What did you want to be when you were a child?

A paediatrician or a gymnast.

What luxury item would you take to a desert island?

My unfinished craft projects, I might actually complete one!

What was the first record you bought?

My first CD was Aqua, Barbie Girl, but I must’ve bought cassettes before that.

What achievement are you most proud of?

I retiled my kitchen last year. The floor’s totally uneven but doing it myself felt epic.

Where will you be going for your next holiday?

I think we’ll be walking the Northumbrian coast.

What skill or talent would you most like to acquire?

I’ve been learning aerial arts for a few months. I’m getting better, but I’d like to be stronger so I can do some of the fancier moves.

Give me a picture of your ideal day: A long walk somewhere beautiful followed by good food and some craft beer.

What’s your greatest indulgence?

I’m quite faddy so my house is full of stuff I’ve used maybe twice before moving onto my next craze.

Pass the buck, who would you like to see in the hot-seat?

John Pritchard, Director of Strategic Planning.

A Night at the Movies Saturday 30 May, 7.30pm Durham Cathedral The University Symphony Orchestra, Palatinate Orchestra, Chamber Choir, Northern Lights A Cappella, Light Opera Group , Opera Ensemble, Big Band, Brass Band and the DUMS Chorus perform in this musical spectacular in Durham Cathedral, taking you to a night at the movies.

June Magna Carta and the Changing Face of Revolt Monday 1 June – Friday 21 August, 10am to 6pm Palace Green Library 2015 marks the 800th anniversary of the sealing of the Magna Carta. The only surviving 1216 copy of the great charter will be on display at Durham University’s Palace Green Library in this commemorative exhibition.

For more information on University events go to www.durham.ac.uk/whatson