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Build a better world
Inspiring the next generation
With biodiversity under threat across the planet, it’s vital that current conservationists inspire and train the next generation. Kent’s Durrell Institute of Conservation and Ecology (DICE) has been at the forefront of conservation training for more than 30 years. Its research has provided vital knowledge on issues such as tropical deforestation, elephant and rhino conservation, and the plight of ‘western’ chimpanzees. DICE alumni work with local communities in countries all around the world making a real difference on the ground, as they try to ensure a better future for all species.
At Kent, you’re at the heart of the ideas and debates that are changing the world. Our research community produces pioneering work in many areas – equality, social justice, science and technology, healthcare and the environment, to name a few.
As a student, you’ll encounter some extraordinary people. Your Monday morning lecture could be delivered by a scientist investigating how science and technology can be used for human enhancement, or an acclaimed novelist, or an academic whose research aims to help create sustainable food chain systems.
This can be a life-changing experience. Not just because it’s inspirational but because it takes you to the heart of new developments in your field of study. Our research enables you to learn about the current debates, the most recent discoveries and the latest innovations. Throughout your studies, you’re encouraged to do research of your own. Reading around your subject opens up new areas of interest and broadens your perspective. In your final year, you may decide to work on a practical project or write a dissertation, guided by an academic mentor. This independence can give you more confidence in your own ideas and, let’s not forget – new ideas are what change the world.
Whatever your ambitions are, you’re sure to find plenty to inspire you at Kent. To see the kind of work we’re involved in, just take a look at the research projects featured on these pages. “Many of today’s global challenges can best be addressed by research that is multi or interdisciplinary. At Kent, we pride ourselves on supporting interdisciplinary research and the exciting collaborative culture on which this research is often based.”
Shane Weller, Deputy ViceChancellor Research and Innovation
Tackling global health challenges
A team of researchers led by Professors Mark Smales and Martin Warren are applying cuttingedge biotechnology and synthetic biology approaches towards tackling global research challenges through the provision of vaccines, biotherapeutics and nutrients in developing countries.
The team’s’ work is at the forefront of developing highly efficient systems for the production of therapeutic recombinant proteins (biopharmaceuticals) for the treatment of diseases such as diabetes, cancer and rheumatoid arthritis. They have also recently generated recombinant proteins to use in diagnostic tests for SARS-CoV-2 infected patients and as potential vaccines against the virus.
Dr Henrik Schoenefeldt, Kent School of Architecture and Planning
Preserving the Palace
Dr Henrik Schoenefeldt contributed to the restoration of the Palace of Westminster by mapping its Victorian ventilation system. As a direct result of this research, it was made a requirement within the client’s design brief that there will be a re-utilisation and integration of the historic system within the design of the modern and sustainable ventilation scheme. This was also enshrined within the Palace of Westminster Conservation Management Plan, which sets out new policies for the preservation and reuse of the technological heritage.
Counting butterflies
‘Citizen science’ volunteers across the UK have gathered valuable data on butterfly and moth species. However, for conservation charities, making good use of these large datasets can be a challenge. Working with the charity Butterfly Conservation, statistical ecologists at Kent were able to help. By applying new techniques to equations used in their mathematical models, they were able to make analysis of the datasets up to ten times more efficient. This led to new information coming to light, which can be used to support conservation efforts and influence policy.
