News listing

Medieval leprosy genomes reveal insights into the history of the disease

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 19:00:00 GMT

An international team led by the University of Tübingen and Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, including scientists at the University of Birmingham (UK), have found that the leprosy bacillus has not changed dramatically during the past millennium, according to research published today (13 June 2013) in the journal Science.

Cosmic giants shed new light on dark matter

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 07:00:00 GMT

Astronomers at the University of Birmingham, Academica Sinica in Taiwan, and the Kavli Institute of Physics and Mathematics of the Universe in Japan, have found new evidence that the mysterious dark matter that pervades our universe behaves as predicted by the 'cold dark matter' theory known as 'CDM'.

University of Birmingham launches the UK's first institute researching Superdiversity

Tue, 11 Jun 2013 08:45:00 GMT

Robots, dancers, and dinosaurs make their way to this year's University Community Day

Mon, 03 Jun 2013 11:08:00 GMT

The University of Birmingham is throwing open its doors next weekend to welcome the public to its annual Community Day on Sunday 9 June.

University of Birmingham unveils new members of leadership team

Thu, 30 May 2013 13:30:00 GMT

The University of Birmingham has appointed a new Provost and Vice-Principal as well as two new Pro-Vice-Chancellors to help drive forward the University's strategic plan.

Read around the world with Birmingham at Hay

Wed, 22 May 2013 17:47:00 GMT

From the world's oldest Bible, via the meaning of Hamlet's 'To be or not to be' soliloquy, to the burgeoning popularity of mass reading events; the past, present and future of literature come together in the University of Birmingham's exciting line-up of lectures at this year's Hay Festival.

New e-voting system to flag up coercion

Tue, 21 May 2013 22:45:00 GMT

SAN FRANCISCO – University of Birmingham (UK) computer scientists have devised an e-voting system that can identify and monitor any votes that could have taken place under coercion, they announced at the IEEE Symposium on Security & Privacy on 21 May 2013.

Salt consumption in India: the need for data to initiate population-based prevention efforts

Fri, 17 May 2013 10:18:00 GMT

International researchers are studying the salt intake of Indian adults to provide vital new data to aid the development of a national salt reduction strategy.

Birmingham joins 'The Conversation' as founding partner

Thu, 16 May 2013 16:46:00 GMT

The University of Birmingham has committed support to a new independent news and commentary website produced by academics and journalists, which launches in the UK today.

Manufacturing areas are lighting up the City

Tue, 07 May 2013 10:23:00 GMT

Manufacturing areas in the city of Birmingham, which represent only a small percentage of the city's land area, are contributing significantly to urban lighting, according to research carried out by University of Birmingham environmental scientists published in the journal PLOS ONE today (Monday 6th May 2013).

Birmingham joins the world's largest nuclear physics research facility

Fri, 03 May 2013 01:00:00 GMT

Researchers from Birmingham will have access to the most impressive and advanced nuclear physics research facility in the world as the UK has today officially become part of a €1.6 billion* international project that will become to nuclear physics what CERN is to particle physics.

Former Poet Laureate calls for religious education to be replaced with lessons in ethics

Thu, 02 May 2013 15:15:00 GMT

Roshan Doug, a former University of Birmingham Poet Laureate, is set to call for religion to be struck from the school curriculum. Doug, whose research at the University questions the ownership, purpose and value of education, will use a public lecture on Tuesday 7 May to put forward his re-evaluation of the state education system.

Big Data for Development: Mobile phone data could be used to prevent the spread of epidemics in developing countries

Thu, 02 May 2013 11:17:00 GMT

BOSTON - Computer scientists at the University of Birmingham have devised a new set of models, using mobile phone data, for studying the geographic evolution of country-wide epidemics and for understanding and planning the diffusion of information among the population to advise on strategies to avoid spreading the infection further.

Women refugees have more difficulty finding work and suffer greater health problems than their male counterparts, new research shows.

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 15:39:00 GMT

Discovering the gender of an unborn baby and giving him or her a name, may help fathers bond with their offspring.

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 08:59:00 GMT

Dads who find out the sex of their unborn child and give him or her a name may find it easier to connect emotionally with their baby, a study conducted at the University of Birmingham has found.

NGOs – the changing face of grassroots activism

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 11:15:00 GMT

Over the last 50 years increasingly affluent and educated citizens have turned away from traditional forms of mass politics: joining political parties, trade unions and voting in elections.

UK-China collaboration to establish new computational resources for metabolomics

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 10:05:00 GMT

A partnership between the University of Birmingham, BGI, the world's largest genomics organisation, and its open-access journal, GigaScience, has received funding from the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) to develop a software platform for the analysis of large-scale environmental metabolomics data.

University launches new institute to address biggest issues facing society

Tue, 09 Apr 2013 14:48:00 GMT

250 years after the creation of the Lunar Society, which brought together leading industrialists, academics and philosophers to debate the biggest issues affecting society, the University of Birmingham is launching an Institute of Advanced Studies with a similar remit.

Over-egging the chocolate this Easter: why you should always keep an eye on what you are eating

Thu, 28 Mar 2013 16:12:00 GMT

Psychologists at the University of Birmingham suggest that 'attentive eating' affects how much people choose to eat.A paper published recently by the Birmingham team in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition took an overview of research on attentive eating and concluded that encouraging people to eat more attentively could aid appetite control.

Summer melt season is getting longer on the Antarctic Peninsula, new research shows

Wed, 27 Mar 2013 15:44:00 GMT

New research from the Antarctic Peninsula published in the Journal of Geophysical Research shows that the summer melt season has been getting longer over the last 60 years. Dr Nick Barrand from the University of Birmingham led an analysis of data from 30 weather stations on the Antarctic Peninsula – a mountainous region extending northwards towards South America.

Student observations of Comet Ison herald a new era at Wast Hills Observatory

Wed, 27 Mar 2013 15:43:00 GMT

University of Birmingham undergraduates have made history by capturing an early glimpse of the eagerly anticipated Comet Ison during the last ever observation at the University's Wast Hills Observatory before a major upgrade project begins.

Medical Quarter launch at health summit

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 17:12:00 GMT

Experts from Birmingham Health Partners will be among the high-profile speakers at the inaugural Life Science Summit in Birmingham on March 18 and 19.

University of Birmingham hosts one-off Arts and Science Festival

Wed, 13 Mar 2013 10:15:00 GMT

The University of Birmingham is set to host its first Arts & Science Festival to showcase the wealth of ideas, research and collaboration across its campus. Running from Monday 18 to Sunday 24 March 2013 at various venues across the University's Edgbaston and Selly Oak campuses, the festival is open to enthusiastic and curious minds from the University and the general public.

University of Birmingham receives £5.9 million to assess the underworld

Tue, 12 Mar 2013 14:48:00 GMT

The University of Birmingham will receive one of four large grants as part of a multi- million pound investment in leading engineering research projects to be announced by Minister for Universities and Science, David Willetts today (12 March 2013).

New guidance urges improved reporting of important outcomes for patients in trials publications

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 09:00:00 GMT

Clinical trials provide us with the best evidence to guide patient treatment and inform health policy. Yet, crucial information, on outcomes reported directly by patients such as their quality of life, is often left out of clinical trial publications, according to international researchers.

University's historic clock tower turns red for Cure Leukaemia

Wed, 27 Feb 2013 14:50:00 GMT

The University of Birmingham's historic clock tower (Old Joe) will be illuminated in red light this Thursday for Cure Leukaemia. Marking the end of the West Midlands Red Alert Appeal in partnership with BBC Radio WM 95.6 raising money for Cure Leukaemia, the University's 110 metre high clock tower will be one of a number of iconic buildings in the city to turn red for the campaign on 28 February 2013.

Birmingham, Delhi and Yale to establish global justice programme

Wed, 27 Feb 2013 08:15:00 GMT

The University of Birmingham is joining forces with Yale and Delhi to support the development of a pioneering global justice programme in India.

Drop in new drugs output 'a myth'

Mon, 25 Feb 2013 11:34:00 GMT

The widely held belief that the UK supply of innovative new medicines has conspicuously dwindled in recent decades, is not borne out by the evidence, reveals research by the University of Birmingham published in the online journal BMJ Open.

University of Birmingham in Guangzhou to develop next steps for strategic partnership

Mon, 25 Feb 2013 07:30:00 GMT

Senior representatives from the University of Birmingham are visiting Guangzhou this week to enhance the institution's extensive links with partners in the region.

Small sun hosts mini planet in distant solar system

Wed, 20 Feb 2013 18:00:00 GMT

Scientists have detected a rocky planet that is smaller than Mercury, the smallest planet in our solar system, orbiting a solar-type star 80% of the size and mass of the Sun, according to research published in the journal Nature today (Wednesday 20 February 2013). The exact dimensions of the star, and the absolute size of the planet, were determined by asteroseismologists led by the University of Birmingham.

UK-India project set to enhance talent in atomic physics research

Wed, 20 Feb 2013 09:30:00 GMT

A new partnership between Indian and UK scientists to develop talent and innovation in a progressive branch of atomic physics is now underway.

University of Birmingham opens new Centre for Research in Race and Education

Tue, 19 Feb 2013 10:37:00 GMT

Twenty years after the death of black teenager Stephen Lawrence, his mother, Doreen Lawrence will help launch a new Centre for Research in Race and Education at the University of Birmingham.

Online tool to improve perineal repair

Tue, 19 Feb 2013 09:55:00 GMT

Scientists at the Universities of Birmingham and Staffordshire have jointly led the development of an online training package to assist midwives and obstetricians to carry out medical procedures to help women who have sustained a perineal injury during childbirth.

A class act: empathetic robot tutors in classrooms to facilitate teaching and learning

Mon, 18 Feb 2013 11:13:00 GMT

A European project to develop robotic tutors that will support teachers and motivate students in secondary schools is being led by University of Birmingham engineers and computer scientists, in collaboration with Heriot-Watt University and other European partners.

Cormorants cannot capture the benefits of global warming

Mon, 04 Feb 2013 17:39:00 GMT

Even though cormorants seem ideally placed to benefit from global warming, by expanding their breeding range into the far north, the darkness of the polar night is likely to keep them firmly in their place, according to research published this week by scientists at the University of Birmingham in the Journal of Zoology.

Birmingham and Nottingham projects to strengthen UK-Brazil research links

Mon, 04 Feb 2013 13:22:00 GMT

The Universities of Birmingham and Nottingham have strengthened their collaborations with Brazilian institutions after securing funding for a number of country-specific research projects. Academics from both universities have won funding from the São Paulo Research Foundation (FAPESP) to undertake research into priority areas spanning the sciences, social sciences and humanities.

Birmingham computer scientists take part in national cyber security challenge

Fri, 25 Jan 2013 08:34:00 GMT

The University of Birmingham's School of Computer Science, along with 3 other leading university computer science departments in the UK, is taking part in a unique code-breaking competition as part of this year's Cyber Security Challenge UK.

UK and USA collaborate in airborne climate science projects

Fri, 25 Jan 2013 07:00:00 GMT

Birmingham scientists are taking part in the first scientific collaboration of its kind, where British and American scientists are trading skills and expertise and are using an unmanned robotic aircraft to gather high altitude atmospheric data.

Rumours abound: Scientists analyse global Twitter gossip around Higgs boson discovery

Wed, 23 Jan 2013 08:24:00 GMT

A model of the spread of gossip on Twitter prior to the Higgs boson discovery announcement has been developed by University of Birmingham computer scientists, according to research published on the online repository, ArXiv.

Uncovering the secrets of 3D vision: How glossy objects can fool the human brain

Mon, 21 Jan 2013 15:00:00 GMT

It's a familiar sight at the fairground: rows of people gaping at curvy mirrors as they watch their faces and bodies distort. But while mirrored surfaces may be fun to look at, new findings by researchers from the Universities of Birmingham, Cambridge and Giessen, suggest they pose a particular challenge for the human brain in processing images for 3D vision.

Shark Tank Re-Fit Lends Teeth To Research Into Prehistoric Seas.

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 11:29:00 GMT

Thousands of shark teeth from the bed of a Blackpool fish tank are helping researchers at the University of Birmingham in their quest to probe ancient mysteries of the deep.

University of Birmingham scientists devise unique stroke assessment tool

Wed, 16 Jan 2013 12:05:00 GMT

Scientists at the University of Birmingham have devised a unique screening instrument that provides a 'one-stop' brain function profile of patients who have suffered stroke or other neurological damage.

International research study to shed light on sources of air-polluting dust in India

Tue, 15 Jan 2013 00:05:00 GMT

A quantitative analysis of dust sources in Delhi by scientists from India, the UK and the USA will provide important new insight into how individual sources of air-borne matter contribute to the overall concentrations measured in the atmosphere.

Mirena coil is best treatment for heavy periods, major trial shows

Fri, 11 Jan 2013 10:22:00 GMT

The hormone-releasing Mirena coil intrauterine device (IUD) is a better treatment for heavy menstrual periods than other conventional medical approaches, according to results of a major clinical trial led by scientists from the Universities of Birmingham and Nottingham.

Perceived benefits of joint commissioning lag behind reality, new study shows

Tue, 08 Jan 2013 10:59:00 GMT

A major new report on joint commissioning in health and social care has found the perceived benefits of collaborative working, such as efficiency savings and improvements to services, often lagged behind the reality.

The Barber Institute at 80

Tue, 08 Jan 2013 10:32:00 GMT

13 December 2012 was a very special day for the University. On that day 80 years ago, Lady Barber and the original trustees signed the Deed of Settlement, which effectively founded the Barber Institute of Fine Arts that was bequeathed to the University 'for the study and encouragement of art and music'.

A Christmas Carol Celebration

Thu, 20 Dec 2012 11:26:00 GMT

In December 1853 Charles Dickens chose A Christmas Carol for his first ever public reading. In Birmingham Town Hall, 2000 people gathered to hear what has now become arguably the most popular Christmas tale from one of Britain's most highly acclaimed writers.

Approaching a healthy new year: Birmingham's sport and exercise experts offer their top tips

Wed, 19 Dec 2012 15:41:00 GMT

Experts from the University of Birmingham set out their advice for how to stay healthy during the holiday period and how best to approach exercise and nutrition for a healthy 2013.

Chinese students hail "transformational" UK study experience

Mon, 17 Dec 2012 15:44:00 GMT

Chinese students who have studied in the UK have seen a "profound transformational experience" in their personal and professional lives, according to research into the impact of studying abroad.

UK universities embrace the free, open, online future of higher education

Fri, 14 Dec 2012 12:20:00 GMT

Counting Christmas calories? No need to panic!

Fri, 14 Dec 2012 11:57:00 GMT

At this time of year newspaper articles will warn of over-indulgence on Christmas day. Experts from the University of Birmingham School of Sport and Exercise Sciences say there is too much focus on the calories consumed during just this one day of the year.

Brazilian Government and University embark on sports science partnership

Fri, 14 Dec 2012 10:14:00 GMT

The University of Birmingham has signed a sports science based agreement with the Brazilian Government this month. The collaboration between Brazil's Ministry of Sport and the University of Birmingham will see the two partners work together on a range of sports science initiatives.

University of Birmingham launches new China Institute

Thu, 13 Dec 2012 04:00:00 GMT

The University of Birmingham's China Institute celebrates its official opening today in the presence of His Excellency Mr Liu Xiaoming, Ambassador of the People's Republic of China to the UK.

"Missing" 200,000 may lose out on Pupil Premium and Free School Meals

Mon, 03 Dec 2012 16:15:00 GMT

More than 200,000 of England's "super-deprived" secondary school children may be missing out on free school meals and the Pupil Premium because they don't show up on official figures, new research shows.

Georgian Ambassador Visits CREES

Thu, 29 Nov 2012 13:51:00 GMT

Highlighting the deep interest in the politics, society and history of the Caucasus at the University of Birmingham and the strong links between the Centre for Russian and East European Studies (CREES) and the diplomatic community, CREES hosted Georgia's Ambassador to the United Kingdom and Ireland Giorgi Badridze on Wednesday 21 November 2012.

Lessons from London, the road to Rio: conference examines leveraging legacies of major sporting events

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 11:00:00 GMT

International sports legacy experts will convene at the University of Birmingham this week to discuss the rationale behind hosting global mega-events and their lasting impact.

University's Lapworth Museum wins heritage lottery grant and seeks volunteers to help shape its redevelopment

Thu, 15 Nov 2012 09:00:00 GMT

The Lapworth Museum of Geology at the University of Birmingham has been awarded a Heritage Lottery Fund Development grant of £130,000 to progress plans to apply for a full grant for a major redevelopment project to create a significantly improved visitor experience and widen its access to young people, the public, and schools.

Brazilian and UK scientists explore research partnerships to improve safe exploitation of oil and gas

Wed, 14 Nov 2012 11:15:00 GMT

The safe exploitation of deep water oil heads the agenda at an international research workshop hosted by the Universidade Federal do Rio Grande de Norte (UFRN) in Natal, Brazil this week.

Scientists design new lens with dual function set to revolutionise optical devices

Tue, 13 Nov 2012 16:00:00 GMT

Scientists at the University of Birmingham have designed a lens using metamaterials that can function as a convex or a concave lens, according to research published today (13 November 2012) in the journal Nature Communications. By fabricating gold nano-rods on the glass, this new lens can magnify or demagnify objects, just by switching the polarisation of the light source.

Making the Olympic Start Line

Fri, 09 Nov 2012 12:31:00 GMT

The performances at London 2012 thrilled a nation but what factors influenced those athletes development during childhood and adolescence to ensure they reached the Olympic starting line?

Robots being used as classroom buddies for children with autism

Thu, 08 Nov 2012 14:11:00 GMT

Robots are being used as classroom buddies for children with autism in a groundbreaking initiative that aims to improve social interaction and communication.

From lab bench to backbench

Tue, 30 Oct 2012 16:29:00 GMT

University of Birmingham cancer scientist Dr Joanna Parish will be swapping her lab coat for legislation, when she visits MP Gisela Stuart at the House of Commons for a "Week in Westminster". Starting on Monday 29 October, it as part of a unique 'pairing' scheme run by the Royal Society – the UK's national academy of science.

University of Birmingham's historic clock tower wears it pink for Breast Cancer Campaign

Tue, 23 Oct 2012 10:26:00 GMT

The 110 metre high clock tower joined a number of iconic buildings across the UK and Ireland turning pink as part of the 10th anniversary of the "Wear it Pink" day organised by the Breast Cancer Campaign.

Hospital mortality rates unreliable - University of Birmingham research

Wed, 17 Oct 2012 10:38:00 GMT

A brand new study by the University of Birmingham suggests that the system used by the Government to inform key decisions about the performance of NHS hospitals is inadequate.

Researchers discover vulnerabilities that allow mobile phone users to be tracked by friends and enemies

Thu, 11 Oct 2012 11:54:00 GMT

New privacy threats have been discovered by University of Birmingham researchers which allow the physical presence of mobile phones operating on 3G networks to be tracked by third parties. This research will be presented at the ACM conference on Computer and Communications Security in Raleigh, North Carolina on Tuesday 16th October 2012.

Clever crows rely on a unique bird's eye view, researchers discover

Tue, 09 Oct 2012 16:00:00 GMT

Scientists at the University of Birmingham studying New Caledonian crows have discovered why these birds, which are famed for their intelligence, are able to use tools with such accuracy. The answer lies in their vision, according to research published today (9 October 2012) in the journal Nature Communications.

University of Birmingham and Rolls-Royce announce £60m High Temperature Research Centre

Tue, 09 Oct 2012 12:58:00 GMT

The Chancellor George Osborne announced today (8th October) that the University of Birmingham and Rolls-Royce, the global power systems company, will be establishing a new £60m High Temperature Research Centre.

Premiership referees more likely to book foreign ethnic minority players

Fri, 05 Oct 2012 11:18:00 GMT

A major analysis of referee's decisions in the Premier League has shown that officials are around 15% more likely to book foreign players who are from the same background as the most sizable ethnic minority groups in the UK. The analysis by researchers from the Universities of Birmingham, Cambridge and Oxford used the extensive in-match dataset collected by OPTA Sportsdata for the 2006-07 and 2007-08 seasons covering 760 games in total.

New research shows that GPs need to recognise occupational asthma

Fri, 05 Oct 2012 10:25:00 GMT

A new report published today in the scientific journal, Occupational Medicine, finds that many people who develop work related asthma are not correctly diagnosed by GPs. Work related factors cause one in ten cases of asthma in adults but an audit of patient records suggests that GPs do not recognise this in three quarters of patients.

University of Birmingham sees impressive league table rise

Fri, 28 Sep 2012 16:58:00 GMT

The University of Birmingham has been shortlisted as University of the Year in The Sunday Times University Guide 2013 and ranked at 13th overall in the UK, a rise of 12 places

Progesterone test can predict viability of pregnancy

Fri, 28 Sep 2012 14:03:00 GMT

Measuring progesterone levels in women with pain or bleeding during early pregnancy is a useful way to help to discriminate between a viable and a non-viable pregnancy, according to research by University of Birmingham researchers published on bmj.com today The results suggest that a low level of progesterone in these women can rule out a viable pregnancy in the vast majority of cases.

Birmingham-Nottingham Strategic Collaboration Fund Launched

Thu, 27 Sep 2012 16:17:00 GMT

Two leading Midlands universities, the University of Birmingham and the University of Nottingham, are building on their recent landmark collaboration by launching a £400,000 fund to support new joint projects. The money will help to deliver new scientific breakthroughs and innovations as well as supporting a range of other initiatives, such as developing new approaches to teaching at the two universities.

University of Birmingham hosts Brum Dine With Me

Mon, 24 Sep 2012 15:16:00 GMT

The University of Birmingham is to stage a unique city-wide day of events called Brum Dine With Me on September 28 as part of a major European campaign highlighting the value of research in society.

Adrift in a foreign land: major study highlights failings when older people are transferred between health and social care services

Thu, 20 Sep 2012 00:02:00 GMT

A major study of the experiences of older people moving between health and care services published today highlights significant problems in the quality of the service they received.

Physiotherapy beneficial for people with Parkinson's disease in the short term

Wed, 19 Sep 2012 16:12:00 GMT

Results from a systematic review and meta-analysis led by the University of Birmingham in the UK suggest that physiotherapy benefits people with Parkinson's disease in the short term (<3 months).

Promising new drugs for Midland blood cancer patients

Wed, 19 Sep 2012 11:29:00 GMT

Six new blood cancer clinical trials will open in Birmingham this year as part of the Trials Acceleration Programme (TAP), a new national trials network set up by the charity Leukaemia & Lymphoma Research to speed up access to life-saving drugs.

Leading Chinese university visits Birmingham to develop medical sciences partnerships

Fri, 14 Sep 2012 14:16:00 GMT

A delegation from Sun Yat-Sen University is visiting the University of Birmingham this week to identify collaborative opportunities in the fields of immunology and infection, cell and gene therapy, clinical trials, and public health.

National Express Foundation announces £100,000 for local youngsters

Mon, 10 Sep 2012 17:24:00 GMT

The University of Birmingham has been awarded £30,000 to provide bursaries to students from the West Midlands' most deprived areas over the next three years.The money is was one of nine awards from The National Express Foundation to help disadvantaged young people across the region.

Droughts could profoundly harm river life, a study warns

Sun, 09 Sep 2012 18:00:00 GMT

Critically low water levels in many rivers could lead to the partial collapse of food chains that support aquatic life, according to research led by the University of Birmingham published in the journal Nature Climate Change today (09 September 12). This is the conclusion of one of the longest experiments on drought ever conducted in freshwaters.

Scientists set new world drilling-depth record of scientific ocean drilling

Fri, 07 Sep 2012 11:44:00 GMT

Scientific deep sea drilling vessel Chikyu has set a new world record by drilling down and obtaining rock samples from deeper than 2,111 meters below the seafloor off the Shimokita Peninsula of Japan.

University researchers uncover the full scale and weaknesses of the monitoring of illegal file sharers

Tue, 04 Sep 2012 15:48:00 GMT

Research by computer scientists at the University of Birmingham has found that the monitoring of online file sharing is more prevalent than previously thought. They also conclude that in many cases, the evidence gathered through monitoring is not admissible in court. This research will be presented tomorrow (Tuesday 4th September 2012) at the SecureComm Conference in Padua.

Your Dinner Date Could Make You Put on Weight

Tue, 04 Sep 2012 11:31:00 GMT

If your dinner date chooses unhealthily from a restaurant menu, you are less likely to stick to healthy options, according to University of Birmingham research published in the British Journal of Nutrition.

Diet in a Day turns spotlight on region's food habits

Tue, 04 Sep 2012 10:38:00 GMT

Brummies are being encouraged to take part in a unique lunchtime photographic event to help University of Birmingham researchers find out more about the region's healthy eating habits.

Rapid re-colonisation of river after extreme flood event

Sun, 02 Sep 2012 18:00:00 GMT

After being virtually wiped out during a flood in 2005 in Wolf Point Creek, Alaska, salmon, meiofauna and most macroinvertebrates all re-colonised within two years, according to research published by University of Birmingham environmental scientists in the journal Nature Climate Change today (2 Sept 2012).

Patients underestimate risk of DVT, say University of Birmingham researchers

Fri, 31 Aug 2012 14:01:00 GMT

Many people going into hospital have concerns about contracting the hospital acquired infection MRSA, yet the risk of acquiring - and dying from – hospital acquired venous thromboembolism (VTE) is much greater, warn scientists at the University of Birmingham.

Engineering students build UK's first hydrogen powered locomotive

Tue, 21 Aug 2012 12:06:00 GMT

Engineering students and staff at the University of Birmingham have designed and built a prototype hydrogen powered locomotive, the first of its kind to operate in the UK.

Research grants success at Birmingham: Awards up by 55%

Thu, 16 Aug 2012 09:00:00 GMT

The University of Birmingham's research awards have risen from £93 million in 2010/11 to £145 million this year, a jump of over 55%.

Scientists discover how iron levels and a faulty gene cause bowel cancer

Thu, 09 Aug 2012 17:53:00 GMT

High levels of iron could raise the risk of bowel cancer by switching on a key pathway in people with faults in a critical anti-cancer gene, according to a study published in Cell Reports* today (Thursday).

Birmingham receives £600,000 through Biomedical Catalyst

Thu, 02 Aug 2012 15:24:00 GMT

The University of Birmingham has been awarded £600,000 by the Medical Research Council (MRC) and the Technology Strategy Board under the joint £180 million Biomedical Catalyst.

Leading Chinese genomics institute partners with the University of Birmingham

Tue, 31 Jul 2012 16:06:00 GMT

The University of Birmingham and BGI, a leading genomics organisation in China, have today announced a major joint initiative in environmental and human health research.

Spotlight on non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

Tue, 31 Jul 2012 12:28:00 GMT

World-class research by University of Birmingham scientists and clinicians into a deadly and increasingly common form of liver disease goes under the spotlight in a BBC Radio 4 documentary.

Birmingham scientists win £1m cancer research boost

Mon, 30 Jul 2012 16:54:00 GMT

Birmingham scientists are leading the way in leukaemia research with a project using state-of-the-art technology to study the function of the entire human genome. The researchers hope to reveal how mutations in genes that are critical to the development of white blood cells trigger these cells into becoming cancer cells.

Drug prescribing system could boost patient safety

Mon, 30 Jul 2012 11:18:00 GMT

Research led by the University of Birmingham has shown that a specialised drug prescribing system could help to prevent a repetition of the notorious 2002 killings of elderly patients by nurse Colin Norris.

Today's leading sporting nations draw heavily on the former East German model

Fri, 27 Jul 2012 10:53:00 GMT

Most successful modern sporting nations exhibit key characteristics of the system that allowed East Germany to rack up a string of sporting successes from the late 1960s up until the Seoul Olympics of 1988, a year before the state's demise.

A cluster of twenty atoms of gold is visualised for the first time by Birmingham physicists

Thu, 26 Jul 2012 07:00:00 GMT

Scientists at the University of Birmingham have developed a method to visualise gold on the nanoscale by using a special probe beam to image 20 atoms of gold bound together to make a cluster. The research is published today (26 July 2012) in the Royal Society of Chemistry's journal Nanoscale.

Titanium implants may corrode, find University of Birmingham researchers

Wed, 25 Jul 2012 09:48:00 GMT

Titanium medical implants used in bone-anchored hearing aids and dental prostheses, may not be as robust as is commonly believed, according to new evidence from scientists at the University of Birmingham.

Signed Usain Bolt memorabilia offered in online auction

Mon, 23 Jul 2012 17:01:00 GMT

Discerning sports fans and collectors will have the chance to get their hands on some of the hottest memorabilia ahead of London 2012 at a live online auction next week. Two Lots will be available, offering bidders their own piece of sporting history. They will be a pair of Usain Bolt's own running spikes signed by the man himself, and a Jamaican team running vest, also signed by the world's fastest sprinter.

Polish entrepreneurship in Britain contributes to economic growth

Thu, 19 Jul 2012 16:52:00 GMT

Birmingham researcher shows net value of Polish entrepreneurship to the West Midlands economy.A major new study of Polish migrants coming to the UK, shows that their business adds significant value to the economy of the West Midlands. The study also shows the huge diversity of businesses that this group of migrants has become involved with, moving beyond the stereotypes of construction.

University invests £2 Million for environmental genomics and recruits John Colbourne to lead

Wed, 18 Jul 2012 14:56:00 GMT

The University of Birmingham's School of Biosciences announced today the launch of a £2 million (3 million US dollar) research initiative to build genomics and bioinformatics expertise for the emerging field of environmental genomics.

Significant reduction in pollution achieved by creating green walls

Wed, 18 Jul 2012 14:00:00 GMT

Scientists at the Universities of Birmingham and Lancaster (UK) argue that by 'greening up' our streets a massive 30% reduction in pollution could be achieved, according to research published today (18 July 2012) in the journal Environmental Science and Technology.

Ozone levels around Delhi prompt new collaborative research project with India

Wed, 18 Jul 2012 11:40:00 GMT

Researchers from the University of Birmingham and TERI University are working together to identify which emissions might best be controlled in order to reduce harmful ozone production in New Delhi.

Research sheds new light on cells implicated in recurrent miscarriage

Mon, 16 Jul 2012 11:43:00 GMT

University of Birmingham scientists have discovered that one of the body's key immune cells remains active against the fetus during pregnancy, a finding that offers fresh understanding of the complex relationship between the mother and baby during pregnancy and offers insights to the potential causes of miscarriage and stillbirth among women.

Do you know where you're going? Your smart phone soon will

Mon, 16 Jul 2012 11:23:00 GMT

Your smart phone may soon be able to predict where you are going, according to research by University of Birmingham computer scientists.

More elderly could benefit from drugs to prevent heart disease, study shows

Fri, 13 Jul 2012 11:04:00 GMT

According to new research from the Universites of Birmingham and Oxford, funded by the National Institute for Health Research drugs prescribed to more patients aged 75 and over will help to lower the risk of cardiovascular disease for that group.

New research study explores attitudes to polio immunisation in India

Fri, 13 Jul 2012 11:02:00 GMT

The University of Birmingham is working with Ravenshaw University in Orissa on a new research project looking at ethics, policy and practice concerning polio vaccination in the state.

Birmingham scientists aim to create 'assassin' cells to target blood cancer

Thu, 12 Jul 2012 15:12:00 GMT

Researchers at the University of Birmingham are to harness cells from the immune system and genetically engineer them to create 'assassin' cells that target and kill myeloma cancer cells.

Birmingham launches unique Public Services Academy

Tue, 10 Jul 2012 11:37:00 GMT

The University of Birmingham is launching a unique academy in collaboration with Birmingham City Council to provide a new focus for developing skills and leadership across public services in the West Midlands.

Birmingham Health Partners welcome funding for Institute for Translational Medicine

Thu, 05 Jul 2012 10:39:00 GMT

The University of Birmingham and University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust (Birmingham Health Partners) welcome today's announcement of government support for the creation of a new world class clinical research facility in Birmingham.

Higgs Update: It's a boson!

Wed, 04 Jul 2012 10:41:00 GMT

Researchers from the ATLAS experiment at the CERN Large Hadron Collider in which University of Birmingham physicists play key roles, have today (4th July 2012) confirmed that they have observed a new particle consistent with the long-sought Higgs boson. These results mark a significant breakthrough in our understanding of the fundamental laws that govern the Universe.

A long-term national commitment to nuclear power is needed by government, a University of Birmingham Policy Commission report warns

Sun, 01 Jul 2012 10:00:00 GMT

A report out today (2 July) from the University of Birmingham's Policy Commission on nuclear power gives strong warnings to government about a 'sense of drift' in UK energy policy and suggests recommendations for a 'roadmap' which it says is critical to the future of the nuclear option.

Honorary graduands for July 2012

Thu, 28 Jun 2012 16:24:00 GMT

A former Conservative Home Office Minister and the Director of the BBC National Orchestra are amongst those who will be given honorary degrees at the University of Birmingham graduation ceremonies in July 2012. Ann Widdecombe and David Murray join 15 honorary graduands and more than 5000 students who will collect their degrees at 18 ceremonies in the University's iconic Great Hall (4th – 12th July).

NASA Kepler Mission discovers unusually close rocky and gaseous planets around distant solar-type star

Thu, 21 Jun 2012 19:00:00 GMT

Scientists at the University of Birmingham are among an international team of astronomers which has today announced the discovery of an unusual planetary system circling a solar-type star 1,200 light years from Earth. The results, which are published in Science, come from observations made by the NASA Kepler space telescope.

The 15th University of Birmingham Racing Car Ready for First Race

Thu, 21 Jun 2012 15:15:00 GMT

Students from the College of Engineering and Physical Sciences have designed and built the University of Birmingham's 15th racing car, which will be unveiled on Friday 22nd June 2pm in Chancellor's Court.

Raising the profile of childhood MS

Tue, 19 Jun 2012 10:03:00 GMT

University of Birmingham researchers working with Birmingham Children's Hospital have found that the UK has the world's highest reported national incidence of children who experience their first Multiple Sclerosis-like attack in childhood.

University Pro-Vice-Chancellor cycles for diabetes research and scholarship places

Wed, 06 Jun 2012 12:44:00 GMT

The University of Birmingham's Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Research and Knowledge Transfer is preparing to complete a charity bike ride across Wales in aid of the University's cutting-edge research and widening participation programme.

University links with Channel 4 to create first skin database

Tue, 29 May 2012 13:39:00 GMT

The University of Birmingham has teamed up with the Channel 4 health awareness show Embarrassing Bodies to create a groundbreaking dermatological database.

Study takes novel 'back-casting' approach to transform cities for healthier lives

Tue, 29 May 2012 12:40:00 GMT

Researchers at four of the country's leading universities, led by the University of Birmingham, are embarking on a low carbon engineering project that could transform the way cities are built, as well as the way we live in them, by taking a novel 'back-casting' approach to their study.

From Shakespeare to Seventeenth Century cider: Birmingham comes to Hay

Mon, 28 May 2012 13:39:00 GMT

Why do theatregoers enjoy watching people die? How did cider knock French wine and the Dutch navy into a cocked hat in the 17th Century? Academics from the University of Birmingham will provide an answer to these intriguing questions (among much else) at a series of lectures at the 25th Hay Festival of Literature and the Arts. This is the first time the University has worked with the world renowned literary festival to present a series of lectures.

Birmingham care home closures achieved positive results for older people

Fri, 25 May 2012 15:17:00 GMT

A major study of the closure of care home beds across Birmingham has shown that for the majority of older people affected the process did not have a negative impact on their lives. 77% of respondents suggested that life had got better or stayed the same as a result of resettlement

New £3.5m supercomputing investment set to boost region's competitiveness

Wed, 23 May 2012 11:49:00 GMT

The University of Birmingham is one of four institutions leading on a £3.5 million supercomputing hub, which is set to power growth and innovation in the Midlands and London by opening up its vast number-crunching power to local firms.

Research highlights need for adequate support for postpartum psychosis patients

Mon, 21 May 2012 11:28:00 GMT

Women recovering from the rare and most severe form of postnatal illness known as postpartum psychosis (PP) must receive enough help after being discharged from psychiatric hospital if maternal suicide rates are to improve, according to researchers from the University of Birmingham.

New project to help businesses bring the region's rich heritage to life: digitally

Thu, 17 May 2012 12:15:00 GMT

A unique new project to help businesses bring the region's cultural heritage to life through the use of new and exciting digital interactive technologies is being launched at the University of Birmingham.

Birmingham archaeologist named as one of National Geographic's emerging explorers for 2012

Wed, 16 May 2012 19:13:00 GMT

University of Birmingham archaeologist, Dr Jeffrey Rose is among the 15 visionary, young trailblazers from around the world who have been named as the 2012 class of National Geographic Emerging Explorers.

Multi-million pound award to support first research centre dedicated to understanding the UK's character and values

Wed, 16 May 2012 10:46:00 GMT

The University of Birmingham has won a multi-million pound award to support the first UK centre dedicated to research into the Character, Values and Virtues that shape UK society. The over-arching aim of the new centre, which is supported by the John Templeton Foundation, is to contribute to the renewal of character and values in Britain through research and development activities.

'Hydrogen is tomorrow's biofuel' say scientists

Mon, 14 May 2012 11:47:00 GMT

Researchers from the University of Birmingham are creating clean hydrogen from food waste paving the way for a bioenergy alternative for the future.

'Greening the Waterways' Conference Hosted by University of Birmingham

Thu, 10 May 2012 15:12:00 GMT

The University of Birmingham will host a one-day workshop on the application of green technologies to waterways transportation at the School of Metallurgy and Materials on Wednesday 27 June 2012.

Event uncovers the secrets of the West Midlands' most fascinating medieval manuscript

Wed, 09 May 2012 14:42:00 GMT

The Vernon Manuscript is a unique lavishly decorated and illustrated book of religious poems and stories written in the dialect of the West Midlands. Produced around 1400AD, this treasure-hoard' of English literature is an important piece of Midlands history. Now academics from the University of Birmingham are showing off a new digital version of the manuscript for the first time at a free event in Birmingham.

Sperm crawl and collide on way to egg, say scientists

Tue, 08 May 2012 17:02:00 GMT

Scientists at the Universities of Birmingham and Warwick have shed new light on how sperm navigate the female reproductive tract, 'crawling' along the channel walls and swimming around corners; with frequent collisions.

Combination chemotherapy shows benefits for adrenal cancer patients

Thu, 03 May 2012 14:42:00 GMT

Endocrinologists at the University of Birmingham have played a key role in a major international clinical trial which has found that giving a combination of chemotherapy drugs to patients suffering from advanced adrenal cancer can help them to live up to a fifth longer.

University of Birmingham academics highlight the exclusion of Muslim sports women at the Olympics

Thu, 03 May 2012 14:13:00 GMT

A new paper by academics from the University of Birmingham's School of Education argues that the policies of sports governing bodies are contributing to the limited participation of Muslim sports women in international sport.

University of Birmingham Partners in the First National Institute Of Dance Medicine And Science

Wed, 02 May 2012 13:10:00 GMT

Dance medicine experts, dance companies and scientists from the University of Birmingham have joined together to open the National Institute of Dance Medicine and Science.

New Bench Top Machines Open Up DNA Sequencing

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 17:21:00 GMT

Research carried out by scientists at the University of Birmingham have found that new 'bench-top' machines for sequencing DNA are capable of accurately identifying over 95% of a genome, signalling a major breakthrough for the diagnosis of infections caused by bacteria such as E. coli.

Trees help you breathe more easily

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 17:35:00 GMT

Research by the University of Birmingham has contributed to The Woodland Trust's new Urban Air Quality report. Published in collaboration with Lancaster University, the report highlights how considered planting of trees and other vegetation can be used to significantly improve air quality in towns and cities. In fact, just through the screening of single trees, it has been shown that the concentration of certain types of pollution1 can be reduced by 15-20%.

Rapid Identification of Superbugs and New Drugs to Combat Them

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 09:57:00 GMT

Synthetic biology is playing a key role in creating new tools for rapid detection of potentially fatal bacterial infections such as E. coli and allowing scientists to create novel molecules that may provide new antibiotics to tackle the problems of multiply-resistant strains.

Birmingham and Nottingham's joint links with Brazil go from strength to strength

Tue, 24 Apr 2012 15:59:00 GMT

The arrival of visiting fellows from Brazil this week marks just one of many growing links the Universities of Birmingham and Nottingham are developing with the South American country.

Go 'Behind the Scenes' with the University of Birmingham's inspirational experts

Tue, 24 Apr 2012 07:00:00 GMT

A competition has been announced by the University of Birmingham today to give people the chance to go 'behind the scenes' with some of its most inspirational academic experts.

University of Birmingham immunologist made Fellow of the Royal Society

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 10:18:00 GMT

A University of Birmingham emeritus professor and outstanding immunologist is among scientists who have been created Fellows of the Royal Society, it was announced today.

Adding Chemo to Radiotherapy Halves Risk of Deadly Bladder Cancer Returning

Fri, 20 Apr 2012 14:39:00 GMT

Bladder cancer patients given low doses of chemotherapy combined with radiotherapy were nearly 50 per cent less likely to relapse with the most lethal form of the disease compared to patients given radiotherapy alone, a major trial funded by Cancer Research UK shows today (Wednesday).

University of Birmingham cements and creates new collaborations with Guangzhou

Mon, 16 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Six months after the launch of the University's representative office in Guangzhou, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Birmingham is back in Guangzhou today to highlight the ongoing strategic partnership between the City and the University.

"Ordinary" black hole discovered 12 million light years away

Wed, 04 Apr 2012 11:48:00 GMT

Scientists from the University of Birmingham have led an international team of astronomers to discover evidence for the existence of an ordinary black hole in the Centaurus A galaxy, which is over 12 million light years away. According to the research, which is published in the April issue of the Astrophysical Journal, this is the first time that a "garden variety" black hole has been detected outside the immediate neighbourhood of our galaxy.

Can you die of a broken heart? Bereavement can weaken the body's ability to fight infections

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 11:20:00 GMT

Immunity experts at the University of Birmingham have found biological evidence to suggest that bereavement lowers physical immunity, putting older people at risk of life-threatening infections.

Universities of Birmingham and Nottingham celebrate first anniversary of landmark collaboration

Fri, 16 Mar 2012 09:07:00 GMT

Against a backdrop of the most challenging time in UK higher education for a generation, a landmark collaboration agreement between the University of Birmingham and University of Nottingham is celebrating a successful first year. This innovative partnership builds on the complementary strengths of the two universities and has already enabled the institutions to secure multi-million pound research income, explore new international markets, and develop new research collaborations.

Vultures are vulnerable to collisions as they cannot see the way ahead

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 11:58:00 GMT

Vultures are colliding with wind turbines because they cannot see the way ahead, according to research by University of Birmingham scientists published today (14 March) in the journal IBIS, the International Journal of Avian Science.

White blood cells cast 'spider's web' of germ-killing DNA

Tue, 13 Mar 2012 15:49:00 GMT

Scientists at the University of Birmingham have found a way of triggering the release of a powerful 'spider's web' of disease-fighting DNA in the body's protective white blood cells. Researchers in the School of Dentistry used Hypochlorous acid (HOCl) to produce the webs, known as NETS (neutrophil extracellular traps), from the white blood cells of patients who have a condition in which their cells are unable to produce NETs naturally. The findings are reported in the journal Clinical and Experimental Immunology.

Studying sleep in young people: links to growth, use of new technologies,

Tue, 13 Mar 2012 15:37:00 GMT

Dr Shahrad Taheri leads the Midlands Adolescent Schools Sleep Education Study (MASSES). He is Senior Lecturer in medicine, diabetes and endocrinology at the University of Birmingham. He is also a consultant physician at the Heart of England NHS Foundation Trust.

Raising awareness of the brain

Tue, 13 Mar 2012 11:30:00 GMT

With Alzheimer's and stroke high on the list of national health concerns, it is becoming ever more important to understand how the brain works, in health and in disease. Top scientists and students from across the University of Birmingham are organising a series of events to engage public understanding of neuroscience, demonstrating the breadth and depth of brain expertise on campus, whilst making the research accessible to the general public for the 17th annual International Brain Awareness Week.

New Health and Wellbeing Boards must focus on outcomes not structural changes

Tue, 13 Mar 2012 11:21:00 GMT

New Health and Wellbeing Boards proposed as a key part of the Coalition's reform package for the NHS must focus on patient outcomes rather than developing unnecessary processes and structures according to a new policy paper from the University of Birmingham's leading health research unit the Health Services Management Centre.

Campus welcomes cube of dreams

Tue, 13 Mar 2012 09:00:00 GMT

The results of a week-long art partnership-project between the University of Birmingham's Department of Theology and Religion, an internationally renowned Muslim graffiti artist and young men from a deprived east Birmingham estate are set to be displayed on campus from today (Tuesday 13 March), bringing Bromford's dreams to the University community.

Birmingham academics and Channel 4's Time Team reveal the secrets of the playwright's house

Thu, 08 Mar 2012 17:45:00 GMT

Channel 4's Time Team joined a group of archaeologists as they excavated the site of William Shakespeare's house, New Place, in Stratford on Avon.

Other Worlds! Expand Your View of the Universe

Wed, 07 Mar 2012 17:24:00 GMT

Build your own rocket, drop an egg safely on the ground by constructing your own landing device, and take part in some solar viewing at the University of Birmingham's open event on Saturday 10th March from 10am – 4pm.

University of Birmingham joins the Easy Access IP initiative

Wed, 07 Mar 2012 11:40:00 GMT

The University of Birmingham is pleased to announce today that it has recently become the first Midlands University to be part of the Easy Access Innovation Partnership, which promotes new ways of transferring intellectual property (IP) to industry.

Archbishop of Canterbury to deliver annual Cadbury Lecture as university building becomes artist's canvas

Tue, 06 Mar 2012 16:58:00 GMT

The role of images in contemporary society is set to be explored during the University of Birmingham's annual Cadbury Lecture series, 'Seeing and believing in modern Christianity', from 6-16 March, which will begin with an art installation on one of the University's buildings and will conclude with a final lecture delivered by the Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr Rowan Williams.

Nature comes to life at Winterbourne House and Garden

Fri, 02 Mar 2012 17:14:00 GMT

Bug counts and worm surveys are set to be the highlights of a forthcoming biodiversity event hosted by the University of Birmingham's Winterbourne House and Garden in partnership with Open Air Laboratories (OPAL).

Birmingham wins £12.8m to support groundbreaking clinical research

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 11:22:00 GMT

Birmingham has won a £12.8m share of a £100m fund to develop new treatments to benefit thousands of patients, the Government announced today. The money, provided by the National Institute for Health Research, will be spent on research nurses, technicians and facilities at 19 of the purpose-built Clinical Research Facilities labs around the UK.

Major debate asks what can an elected mayor do for a city and region?

Mon, 27 Feb 2012 11:04:00 GMT

People in some of the UK's biggest cities including Birmingham, Coventry, Bristol and Liverpool will vote in May on whether they want and elected mayors – with the possibilities of polls six months later to choose an individual to be entrusted with the leadership of these cities.

Free-runners explore orang-utans' ease in the trees

Mon, 27 Feb 2012 11:03:00 GMT

University of Birmingham scientists are using parkour athletes - also known as free runners - to discover how orang-utans and other tree-dwelling primates maximise energy efficiency as they move through the forest canopy.

Rising temperatures impact on major pest of rice

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 10:40:00 GMT

Rice crop plaguing insects may struggle to survive in a warming climate, scientists from the University of Birmingham have found.

Life of Italian mafia to be revealed in city performance

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 13:59:00 GMT

The confessions of a Sicilian mobster are to be exposed in a one-off performance of Dacia Maraini's My Name is Antonino Calderone at the mac next week as part of a three-day 'Italy and the Mafia' spectacle coming to the city of Birmingham.

£3.5million funding grant awarded to Creative Community projects

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 10:34:00 GMT

The University of Birmingham has been awarded more than £1,200,000 by the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) for a creative urban economy project as part of a larger £3.5m investment in three national projects set to support communities and their creative economy.

University launches first academic centre for Women's Enterprise and Leadership (CWEL)

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 09:17:00 GMT

The University of Birmingham's Business School and the Women's Business Development Agency have formed a partnership to create the UK's first academic centre devoted to women's enterprise and leadership.

University launches first academic centre for Women's Enterprise and Leadership (CWEL)

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 10:07:00 GMT

Challenges to the NHS from 'health tourism' going unrecognized

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 12:01:00 GMT

The rise of medical tourism presents significant challenges for the NHS according to new work from academics at the Universities of Birmingham and York. They argue that policy makers have so far failed to address the implications health tourism has on the quality and continuity of care patients receive.

University community art project to help young adults express their dreams

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 17:06:00 GMT

Internationally renowned artist, Mohammed Ali will be working in partnership with the University of Birmingham's department of Theology and Religion and unemployed young men in Bromford, east Birmingham, to paint their dreams for their community during a week-long 'Bromford Dreams' mural project beginning on Monday 13 February.

University's TV 'sperm race' helps to unlock mysteries of procreation

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 11:33:00 GMT

University of Birmingham reproductive medicine expert Dr Jackson Kirkman-Brown invites a group of male students to take part in an experimental 'Sperm Race' to explore what it takes to be the best out of millions in the BBC3 documentary How Sex Works tonight.

University of Birmingham appoints Alice Roberts as first Professor of Public Engagement in Science

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 11:20:00 GMT

Clinical anatomist, author and broadcaster Alice Roberts has been appointed Professor of Public Engagement in Science at the University of Birmingham. Alice, who regularly appears as a science presenter on TV programmes including Coast, Time Team and Horizon, as well as The Incredible Human Journey, Don't Die Young and Origins of Us, joins the University on 1st February, 2012.

Archaeologist reveals evidence of mass graves at Nazi death camp

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 11:04:00 GMT

Almost 70 years after the end of the Second World War a groundbreaking forensic archaeological study by the University of Birmingham has unearthed evidence of hidden burial sites at a former death camp where more than 800,000 Jews perished during the Holocaust.

Computational research aims to alleviate embarrassing bladder problems

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Scientists from the University of Birmingham and the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Bombay are working together to develop new ways of treating bladder overactivity, a problem which affects millions of people worldwide.

University of Birmingham scientists show brain vulnerable to Hepatitis C virus

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 13:23:00 GMT

Scientists at the University of Birmingham have demonstrated for the first time that human brain cells can become infected with the Hepatitis C virus (HCV), it is reported today (Tuesday January 17, 2012). The team of virologists found that the endothelial cells in the brain possess the four main protein receptors necessary for the blood-brain barrier to be targeted by HCV.

New Particle at the Large Hadron Collider Discovered by ATLAS Experiment

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 10:36:00 GMT

Researchers from the University of Birmingham and Lancaster University, analysing data taken by the ATLAS experiment, have been at the centre of what is believed to be the first clear observation of a new particle at the Large Hadron Collider. The research is published today (22 December 11) on the online repository arXiv.

Developing nursing leadership and a support for nurses is crucial to the quality of patient care

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 13:55:00 GMT

Ward sisters/Charge nurses need to be a given a more prominent leadership role in hospitals if standards of acute nursing care are to be improved according to a new paper from the University of Birmingham's leading health policy unit the Health Services Management Centre

Pantomime – The perfect form of Christmas entertainment? Oh yes it is!

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 10:40:00 GMT

Research from the University of Birmingham has highlighted striking similarities between today's Saturday night television talent shows and another great Christmas tradition, the Victorian pantomime. The appeal of pantomime in providing spectacle, melodramatic villains and a guaranteed happy ending for a Victorian audience is paralleled today in Strictly Come Dancing and the X Factor.

Scientists 'trigger' high energy physics at CERN in India-UK collaboration

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 10:34:00 GMT

The University of Birmingham is working with partners at Jammu University on particle physics experiments, including those at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) at the European Organization for Nuclear Research – CERN.

University of Birmingham explores further collaborative opportunities in Guangzhou

Sat, 17 Dec 2011 01:00:00 GMT

Following the launch of the University of Birmingham Guangzhou Centre in September 2011, senior academics will return to the city this week to develop additional opportunities for joint research and innovation.

Britain's Public Finances: Past, Present and Future

Thu, 15 Dec 2011 10:00:00 GMT

Why do governments tax, spend, lend and borrow? At a time when fiscal management is under intense scrutiny around the world, Robert Chote, Chairman of the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR), will explore this fundamental question for understanding the nation's public finances, when he presents the Royal Economic Society's annual public lecture at the University of Birmingham today, Thursday 15 December.

UK and Indian researchers unite to fight global tuberculosis epidemic

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 15:10:00 GMT

University of Birmingham academics from the School of Biosciences are joining forces with peers from the Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore (IISc) in a new research partnership focused on tackling tuberculosis (TB).

Director General of CERN to Receive Honorary Degree

Tue, 13 Dec 2011 16:09:00 GMT

Professor Rolf Dieter Heuer, the Director General of CERN, the European Organisation for Nuclear Research, will receive an honorary doctorate at a degree congregation at the University of Birmingham on Friday 16th December at 1.45pm.

Research aims to reduce risk of nerve damage in leprosy patients

Tue, 13 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

An honorary senior research fellow from the University of Birmingham in the UK is collaborating with Brazilian and Dutch researchers in the fight against leprosy in Brazil. Professor Pranab K. Das from the University of Birmingham (previously from the University of Amsterdam) is currently working with the Institute of Lauro Souza Lima (ILSL) in Bauru, São Paulo, and with the Academic Medical Center at the University of Amsterdam to reduce the risk of nerve damage caused by leprosy. If left untreated this nerve damage leads to disability.

Haul of 50 oscillating stars with orbiting planets found by Kepler Spacecraft

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 09:54:00 GMT

Oscillations have been discovered in 50 stars with their own orbiting candidate planets (exo- or extrasolar planets) by an international team of scientists using data from the NASA Kepler Mission, according to an announcement made by one of the lead scientists, Professor Bill Chaplin from the UK's University of Birmingham, at a NASA conference in California (Friday 9th December, 2011).

University supporters set to change the world with achievement of £60 million fundraising target

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 10:26:00 GMT

The University of Birmingham's Circles of influence fundraising campaign has reached and surpassed its £60m fundraising goal - the largest target ever achieved by a Midlands university.Launched in 2009, the University set an ambitious target to raise £60m to support the research into critical issues that affect us all, to open the University to talented students regardless of their financial circumstances, and to develop the University's beautiful campus to provide world-class facilities for our students, staff, and the people of Birmingham. Thanks to the generosity of alumni and friends, this target has now been exceeded.

Astronomers reveal a rapidly spinning core inside ageing stars

Wed, 07 Dec 2011 18:00:00 GMT

An international team of astronomers, including scientists from the University of Birmingham, has looked deep inside some old stars and discovered that their cores spin at least ten times as fast as their surfaces. The research, led by Leuven University in Belgium, is published today (7 December 2011) in the journal Nature.

Current benefit and taxation system – unfit for purpose

Fri, 02 Dec 2011 13:28:00 GMT

The tax and benefit system needs a radical redesign to fit it for the 21st century according to a new policy paper from experts at the University of Birmingham and The Centre for Welfare Reform. They argue that the Coalition government's plans for reform, although well motivated, are fundamentally flawed.

University and Trust sign up to historic health partnership

Thu, 01 Dec 2011 09:01:00 GMT

The University of Birmingham and University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust have today announced a groundbreaking joint working agreement to be known as Birmingham Health Partners (BHP).

Birmingham experts respond to the autumn economic statement

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 16:43:00 GMT

Birmingham's academic experts provide their views on George Osborne's autumn economic statement.

Discoveries provide evidence of a celestial procession at Stonehenge

Sat, 26 Nov 2011 08:35:00 GMT

Archaeologists led by the University of Birmingham with the Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Archaeological Prospection have discovered evidence of two huge pits positioned on celestial alignment at Stonehenge. Shedding new light on the significant association of the monument with the sun, these pits may have contained tall stones, wooden posts or even fires to mark its rising and setting and could have defined a processional route used by agriculturalists to celebrate the passage of the sun across the sky at the summer solstice.

Birmingham's Household Robot Visits the Big City

Fri, 25 Nov 2011 14:06:00 GMT

Dora, a domestic robot devised and built by a group of European computer scientists led by the University of Birmingham, will make an appearance at the London Science Museum's new exhibition of cutting-edge robots from the 1st – 4th December 2011.

University of Birmingham wins Queen's Anniversary Prize for Higher Education

Fri, 25 Nov 2011 00:01:00 GMT

The University of Birmingham's world-leading Centre for Formulation Engineering has gained further recognition after being selected for a Queen's Anniversary Prize for Higher and Further Education. The Prizes form part of the national honours system and are the most prestigious honour that can be awarded to UK universities or colleges. The Prizes are given to institutions that make an outstanding contribution to the intellectual, economic, cultural, and social life of the nation.

UK recovery will require strong public sector leadership confident of its special role and more closely connected with those it serves

Wed, 23 Nov 2011 13:01:00 GMT

Leadership in the public sector is facing an unprecedented crisis of confidence at a time when public services are facing huge challenges. In a speech to mark the 45th anniversary of the University of Birmingham's Institute for Local Government Studies, Professor Sir Michael Lyons will say that eroding confidence in public sector leadership has the potential to damage the UK's economic recovery.

University's Historic Clock Tower to be Lit up for Diabetes Day

Fri, 11 Nov 2011 15:32:00 GMT

The face of The University of Birmingham's historic clock tower (Old Joe) will be turned blue on Monday 14th November as part of the worldwide commemoration of World Diabetes Day.

Ironbridge Gorge Museums to host annual Ironbridge Lecture

Tue, 08 Nov 2011 14:25:00 GMT

The prestigious Ironbridge Lecture will once again be hosted by The Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust on Tuesday 6th December in the Engine Shop at Enginuity in Coalbrookdale. The annual lecture, held in partnership with the University of Birmingham, will be delivered by the University's Professor of Community History and Director of the BirminghamLives project Professor Carl Chinn MBE.

Commercial weight loss services more effective than primary care

Fri, 04 Nov 2011 00:01:00 GMT

Commercial weight management programmes are more successful and cost less than those offered by primary care facilities such as GP surgeries and pharmacies, according to research from the University of Birmingham published on online by the British Medical Journal today (Friday, November 4, 2011).

University of Birmingham expert spearheads campaign to boost antibiotic research

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 15:51:00 GMT

A top UK microbiologist from the University of Birmingham is championing a major campaign calling for urgent new investment in antibiotic research.

Desperate for a chocolate biscuit? There's an app for that

Wed, 02 Nov 2011 00:02:00 GMT

A free app for iPhone, which is designed to help people tackle the habit of comfort eating and reduce the amount of high fat, high salt and high sugar snack food they consume, is being launched today (November 2) by the University of Birmingham.

Building a transparent system of global aid

Mon, 31 Oct 2011 12:09:00 GMT

A conference hosted by the University of Birmingham this week brings together key players in the global effort to develop a transparent system of development aid. The Future of Aid Data Workshop (31 October – 1 November) highlights the importance of developing international aid transparency standards which include rising donor nations like China and India.

Event offers an opportunity to interact with new autism technologies

Fri, 28 Oct 2011 12:22:00 GMT

This week teachers, parents, and children with autism – will have a unique opportunity to see how innovative interactive technologies can be used in enhancing autism education at a special event at Topcliffe Primary School in Castle Vale. Researchers from the Universities of Birmingham, Southampton and University Wales Institute Cardiff will be demonstrating how virtual environments, touch tables and ipad software can be used in teaching children on the autism spectrum.

Training for GPs should be extended

Thu, 27 Oct 2011 17:24:00 GMT

The length of general practice training needs to be extended so that new GPs feel better prepared and more confident for independent practice. That is the one of the main recommendations of a three-year evaluation study of the RCGP training curriculum.

University staff, students and alumni great run raises thousands for cancer research

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 17:17:00 GMT

A team of ten University of Birmingham staff, students and alumni completed the 13.1 mile Bupa Great Birmingham Run this weekend, raising more than £4,200 for cancer research taking place at the University.

Male bowel cancer patients 'unprepared' for erectile dysfunction

Wed, 19 Oct 2011 10:51:00 GMT

Men suffering from bowel cancer are prone to erectile dysfunction (ED) following treatment, yet most do not receive enough information about the condition, according to a study by University of Birmingham cancer experts published today (18 October).

Remembering to Forget: Destroying Bad Memories and Breaking Bad Habits

Tue, 18 Oct 2011 16:00:00 GMT

Retrieving a memory is crucial when trying to extinguish it completely, according to research published today (18 October) by University of Birmingham scientists in the journal Nature Communications.

Fruit and vegetable compound offers hope against gum disease

Tue, 18 Oct 2011 00:02:00 GMT

Scientists at the University of Birmingham have found that supplementing the diet with a special combination of fruit and vegetable juice powder concentrates may help to combat chronic gum disease when combined with conventional dental therapy.

Glaciers Make Way for New Stream Habitat in Alaska

Mon, 17 Oct 2011 16:49:00 GMT

Researchers from the University of Birmingham and other UK universities describe the evolution and assembly of a stream ecosystem in South East Alaska in new de-glaciated terrain, from early insect and crustacean invaders to the arrival of migrating salmon from the ocean, in a paper published in the journal 'Ecology' this month (October).

Sea Life Sharks Help Scientists Probe Mysteries of Ancient Seas

Mon, 17 Oct 2011 14:50:00 GMT

Sea Life Centre sharks are set to help University of Birmingham scientists unravel the mysteries of ancient seas. That will be the goal of a major research project announced as the centres prepare to host special Shark Weeks in October, to promote shark conservation.

We get the kind of older people's services we deserve

Tue, 11 Oct 2011 19:33:00 GMT

Following the high profile demise of Southern Cross, reports suggest that more than 250 of its care homes are to transfer to other operators. With some 31,000 beds, Southern Cross was the largest care home provider in the country for older people – and its ongoing problems hit the financial, political and social affairs headlines at various stages this year. The University of Birmingham was directly involved in this process, producing national guidance on how to support older people if care homes close. However, looking back at events, what can we learn – and could this happen again?

New NICE guideline calls for improvements to antenatal care for women pregnant with twins or triplets

Wed, 28 Sep 2011 00:01:00 GMT

A University of Birmingham fetal medicine expert has helped to shape new advice from NICE on antenatal care for women pregnant with twins or triplets. Professor Mark Kilby says the new guideline, published today (September 28), charts the way forward for managing multiple pregnancy in the NHS.

Plant Body Clock Observed in Tropical Forest Research

Sun, 25 Sep 2011 18:00:00 GMT

Predictions of the ground-level pollutant ozone will be more accurate in future according to research published today (25 September) by environment scientists at research centres including the University of Birmingham in the journal Nature Geoscience.

Radiotherapy between or during chemotherapy cycles reduces risk of breast cancer recurrence

Sat, 24 Sep 2011 23:01:00 GMT

A major UK trial led by the University of Birmingham has produced firm evidence that giving radiotherapy between or during chemotherapy cycles to women with early breast cancer significantly reduces the risk of the cancer recurring in the breast or chest wall. The treatment, known as synchronous chemoradiation, has minimal adverse side-effects and no detrimental effect on the patients' quality of life.

Research Explains Why People Get Drunk at the Office Party

Mon, 19 Sep 2011 11:11:00 GMT

Getting drunk at the office party and behaving in an inappropriate way may be down to the fact that drinking alcohol in an unfamiliar environment can lead to an inability to reign in unsuitable behaviour, according to research by psychologists at the University of Birmingham published online in the journal Alcohol and Alcoholism.

NHS commissioners admit to more weaknesses than strengths when it comes to setting priorities

Fri, 16 Sep 2011 11:33:00 GMT

One of the most extensive reviews into how primary care trusts (PCTs) made decisions about funding priorities confirms that while most commissioners have established robust systems in relation to funding new services and exceptional treatments, they generally struggle to apply the same rigour to 'core' spending.

University of Birmingham scientists develop urine test for cancer

Thu, 15 Sep 2011 11:09:00 GMT

Scientists at the University of Birmingham have developed a ground-breaking technique that uses a urine test to help to diagnose adrenal cancer.

'Flexible Curriculum' required to ensure pupils with autism achieve potential

Wed, 14 Sep 2011 14:41:00 GMT

A report published today (14th September 2011) by the Autism Education Trust (AET) finds the current education system lacks flexibility in its approach to pupils on the autism spectrum. The research (Educational provision and outcomes for people on the autism spectrum, AET, 2011) led by Dr Kerstin Wittemeyer from the Autism Centre of Education and Research at the University of Birmingham, found that teachers are not being given enough guidance or scope to adapt the National Curriculum to include social and life skills for pupils with autism.

Researchers to unlock distinctive West Midlands accent

Fri, 09 Sep 2011 16:35:00 GMT

The region's linguistic heritage is set to be explored in a new research project comparing the way today's West Midlands residents speak to text from an ancient medieval manuscript originating from the area. The research by the University of Birmingham is looking at how far people in the region share the language of their predecessors captured in the Vernon Manuscript, the biggest surviving late-medieval English manuscript.

Acclaimed playwright appointed as new course co-ordinator

Fri, 09 Sep 2011 11:36:00 GMT

Fraser Grace, acclaimed playwright, is to return to the University of Birmingham as co-ordinator of its postgraduate Playwriting Studies course, of which he is an alumnus. An award-winning writer, Grace currently directs the Writing Drama course at Anglia Ruskin University and is an associate writer with Menagerie Theatre.

Ten years on from 9/11, research calls for counter-terrorist policing to be held accountable

Wed, 07 Sep 2011 00:02:00 GMT

A decade after the global tragedy of 9/11, a groundbreaking pan-European research project led by the University of Birmingham is calling for increased accountability and tougher legal restrictions on surveillance and detection technologies.

Translators needed in UK GP surgeries say researchers

Mon, 05 Sep 2011 11:41:00 GMT

Professional interpreters are under-used in the NHS according to new research from the University of Birmingham. The researchers identify language barriers as an increasing obstacle to the provision of healthcare in a paper published in the journal PLoS ONE.

Birmingham ranked 67th in World University Rankings

Mon, 05 Sep 2011 10:11:00 GMT

The University of Birmingham has been ranked an impressive 67th in today's QS World University Rankings. The QS World University Rankings is a ranking more that 600 institutions, which has published annually since 2004.

The cost of breathing? - about £65 each year

Fri, 02 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The whole atmosphere is effectively worth more than 100 times the value of the world economy (Gross World Product – GWP), according to research being presented to the annual International Conference of the Royal Geographical Society (with IBG) today by Professor John Thornes of the University of Birmingham's School of Geography.

Scientists uncover gene network responsible for repair of the central nervous system of the fruit fly

Tue, 30 Aug 2011 11:18:00 GMT

A gene network that controls repair to the central nervous system (CNS) after injury has been discovered in the fruit fly, Drosophila, by scientists at the University of Birmingham. This breakthrough may help to aid understanding of cell manipulation techniques necessary to repair damage to the human CNS, according to research published today (30 August) in the journal PLoS Biology.

University research shapes new NICE guidelines on blood pressure

Wed, 24 Aug 2011 10:23:00 GMT

High blood pressure should be diagnosed using ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (repeated measurements throughout a 24-hour period)), which is not only more clinically accurate than clinic-based measurements but is better value for money, according to University of Birmingham research published online today in the Lancet.

Modified Ecstasy holds promise as potent blood cancer treatment

Fri, 19 Aug 2011 00:01:00 GMT

Scientists at the University of Birmingham have discovered a modified form of the drug MDMA - commonly known as Ecstasy - which has 100 times more cancer-busting properties than the popular recreational drug itself and which they hope may be able to be produced in a safe form to treat patients.

New report recommends aggressive intervention to create local change

Wed, 10 Aug 2011 13:14:00 GMT

A new report from the University of Birmingham and the Centre for Welfare Reform argues that delivering real and lasting neighbourhood change, a key plank of the government's localism agenda, requires aggressive intervention to engage local communities.

Molecular study shows unexpected effects of toxin

Fri, 05 Aug 2011 16:12:00 GMT

Scientists from the University of Birmingham studying the effects of the widely-used pesticide fenitrothion, have discovered unexpected cell damage in a common freshwater fish, roach, exposed to the toxin.

Delays in specialist assessment of rheumatoid arthritis are too long

Fri, 05 Aug 2011 12:17:00 GMT

Delays in the specialist assessment of patients with suspected rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are "unacceptably long," finds a study carried out in eight European countries led by the University of Birmingham, published online today in the Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases.

Simple screening test identifies heart defects in newborns, say researchers

Fri, 05 Aug 2011 00:02:00 GMT

A simple test to measure blood oxygen in newborns has been shown to identify babies with life-threatening congenital heart defects, a major cause of infant mortality in the developed world, according to researchers from the University of Birmingham and Birmingham Women's Hospital.

Less than ten minutes of intense exercise a week is enough to reduce risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes, according to new research

Mon, 01 Aug 2011 12:16:00 GMT

Three minutes of intense exercise, three times a week, is equivalent to five one-hour sessions according to research at the University of Birmingham's School of Sport and Exercise Sciences, offering hope for people too busy to find the time to work out.

Laws that encourage healthier lifestyles protect lives and save the NHS money

Thu, 28 Jul 2011 23:31:00 GMT

The introduction of legislation that restricts unhealthy food, for example by reducing salt content and eliminating industrial trans fats, would prevent thousands of cases of heart disease in England and Wales and save the NHS millions of pounds, finds research published on bmj.com today.

Social networking and crowdsourcing aid swift characterisation of deadly E. coli strain

Wed, 27 Jul 2011 22:01:00 GMT

An international scientific effort, including scientists from the University of Birmingham, facilitated by social networking, has enabled the characterisation of the deadly strain of E. coli from the recent German outbreak within days, according to research published today (27 July) in the New England Journal of Medicine.

Birmingham Physicists excited by hints of Higgs boson existence

Mon, 25 Jul 2011 17:28:00 GMT

Birmingham particle physicists are today trawling through the data from particle collisions at the Large Hadron Collider that could indicate the existence of the Higgs boson.

Television star to award next generation of engineers

Thu, 21 Jul 2011 10:02:00 GMT

Forty aspiring teenage engineers are set to receive a surprise visit from a television star today (Thursday 21 July) at the University of Birmingham to celebrate completion of a four-day residential course exploring the technologies and systems of railway engineering.

Antibacterial Stainless Steel Created by Birmingham Engineers

Tue, 19 Jul 2011 10:34:00 GMT

Materials scientists at the University of Birmingham have devised a way of making stainless steel surfaces resistant to bacteria in a project funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council which culminated this week.

8 out of 10 young people feel alienated by decisions on local public services

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 10:08:00 GMT

A major survey of young people's views on public services launched today (July 11) has revealed that they overwhelmingly feel excluded from decisions about the provision of local services. However, the research by the University of Birmingham Policy Commission also revealed a strong appetite amongst young people to become involved in delivering local services, in many cases by volunteering their own time.

Commission unveils radical vision for 21st Century public services

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 10:07:00 GMT

A major new report by the University of Birmingham published on July 11th will call for a new system of Local Public Support fit for the 21st century.'When Tomorrow Comes - The future of local public services outlines a blueprint for a new system of Local Public Support based on local democracy and citizen involvement in delivering services to meet the aspirations of individuals and communities.

World War Two Bombing Raids Offer New Insight into the Effects of Aviation on Climate

Tue, 05 Jul 2011 16:43:00 GMT

Climate researchers have turned to the Allied bombing raids of the Second World War for a unique opportunity to study the effect thousands of aircraft had on the English climate at a time when civilian aviation remained rare. The study, published in the International Journal of Climatology, reveals how civilian and military records can help assess the impact of modern aviation on the climate today.

Conference examines conflict and security 20 years after the end of the Soviet Union

Mon, 04 Jul 2011 17:47:00 GMT

The future of security and stability in this region and the influence of Russia will be addressed at a major conference hosted today (4 July) by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, the University of Birmingham and the John Smith Memorial Trust. The Rt Hon Lord David Howell, Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth Office, will open the one-day event.

University strengthens bond with China in Guangzhou Centre launch

Fri, 01 Jul 2011 00:01:00 GMT

The University of Birmingham is to open a collaborative centre later this summer in Guangzhou, China, with the People's Government of Guangzhou Municipality.

Record 33,000 potential applicants and parents to come to the University undergraduate open days

Tue, 28 Jun 2011 11:58:00 GMT

The University of Birmingham will be throwing open its doors to a record number of more than 33,000 prospective students and their parents this Thursday 30 June and Friday 1 July, for its annual undergraduate open days.

Premature babies risk mental health problems, say experts

Mon, 27 Jun 2011 12:01:00 GMT

Premature or low birthweight babies are more than three times more likely to suffer from anxiety and mood disorders in adolescence than full-term infants, according to psychologists at the University of Birmingham.

TV Meteorologist to Open Birmingham's Two New Weather Stations

Mon, 27 Jun 2011 11:58:00 GMT

John Hammond, BBC weather presenter and former University of Birmingham student, will open Birmingham's two new weather stations on Tuesday 28th June.

Conference explores new business opportunities with Chinese sister city

Fri, 24 Jun 2011 10:32:00 GMT

Business leaders, academics and government representatives are coming together for a one-day conference focusing on new business opportunities with Guangzhou, a sister city of Birmingham.

High sugar and fat diet 'may increase cell damage during sleep'

Thu, 23 Jun 2011 10:15:00 GMT

Continuing sleepless nights can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke and even death for sufferers of Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA) who regularly stop breathing during the night for brief periods of time.

UK universities' partnership deepens links with Brazil

Thu, 23 Jun 2011 00:01:00 GMT

Brazil's brightest and best researchers and postgraduate students are to be encouraged to bring their talent to the UK as part of a groundbreaking new initiative.

New research highlights effective education for sports coaches as key to healthier UK youngsters

Wed, 22 Jun 2011 14:39:00 GMT

Childhood obesity is a serious public health problem predicted to affect two thirds of UK children by 2050. Physical inactivity is a leading contributor to the obesity epidemic, which researchers from the University of Birmingham are seeking to combat through effective coach education.

Older people less likely to fall if they pay attention to their feet

Tue, 21 Jun 2011 00:01:00 GMT

Just as grey hair and wrinkles are widely accepted as a natural part of ageing, so is an increased risk of falling, which can happen for many reasons and with devastating consequences, including increased likelihood of injury, hospitalisation and even death.

Birmingham Invests in Global Talent

Tue, 14 Jun 2011 10:41:00 GMT

The University of Birmingham has launched a global search to appoint up to 50 Birmingham Fellows to enhance the University's existing academic strengths and to contribute to a growing culture of collaboration.

New good practice guide emphasises importance of time in care home closures

Wed, 08 Jun 2011 17:11:00 GMT

Continued reductions in social care funding will create changes in care - with councils seeking to reduce costs by closing remaining in-house provision, while some independent care homes will continue to close as their owners leave the sector

Philip Hammond MP, Secretary of State for Transport visits University of Birmingham

Wed, 08 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The Secretary of State for Transport, Philip Hammond MP, will visit the University of Birmingham's Centre for Railway Research and Education on Wednesday 8th June at 2.15pm.

Women suffering from 'worst violence in history of modern Iraq'

Tue, 07 Jun 2011 11:46:00 GMT

Women have been left defenceless and at the mercy of militia groups in the aftermath of the Iraq war in 2003 according to research from the University of Birmingham.

Childhood cancer survivors at greater risk in middle age

Sat, 04 Jun 2011 19:01:00 GMT

Scientists at the University of Birmingham have found that survivors of childhood cancers are four times more likely than the general population to develop a new cancer. The results are published online today in the Journal of the American Medical Association.

New Partnership Creates Opportunities for Research and Development

Thu, 02 Jun 2011 12:33:00 GMT

The University of Birmingham has set up the Poynting Institute which aims to generate novel and innovative solutions to real world problems for both industry and government. The first partner is the high tech science, technology and engineering company, QinetiQ.

European launch for 'Encounters with Civilisations'

Tue, 31 May 2011 11:50:00 GMT

A new book exploring people's experience and tensions of dealing with civilizations and cultures different from their own is now available in mainland Europe after its initial release by Transaction Publishers in the USA in February.

Exploring European competitiveness at inaugural University of Birmingham Brussels symposium

Fri, 27 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT

EU Commissioner for Industry and Entrepreneurship Mr. Antonio Tajani will be the keynote speaker at a University of Birmingham symposium on European Competitiveness next week.

Be a weather presenter for the day at Birmingham Weather Roadshow

Thu, 26 May 2011 10:48:00 GMT

A University of Birmingham scientist is set to join weather experts from across the country to help the local community learn more about weather and the climate with hands-on activities and demonstrations at a week-long roadshow coming to the city this half-term.

Opportunity to see archaeologists at work in largest dig at local medieval village

Tue, 24 May 2011 13:53:00 GMT

A team of archaeologists from the University of Birmingham are set to share their work at the largest open area excavation to be undertaken at the medieval village of Longstanton, Cambridgeshire, with a public open day offering guided tours of the site.

A Window on the World: A New Approach to Exploiting Virtual Reality for Patient Rehabilitation

Mon, 23 May 2011 11:25:00 GMT

Scientists at the University of Birmingham are developing virtual scenarios incorporating sounds, sights and smells that will help hospitalised trauma victims and those who cannot go outdoors to experience the outside world and to convalesce quicker.

Coalition's Health White Paper is more evolution than revolution

Fri, 20 May 2011 10:09:00 GMT

Many aspects of the government's much criticised health reform package represent an extension of existing policy rather than a new direction for healthcare according to a new report from the University of Birmingham's leading health policy unit the Health Services Management Centre.

Major analysis shows value of non-physician clinicians for maternal health in sub-Saharan Africa

Fri, 20 May 2011 00:01:00 GMT

Mothers in developing countries who give birth by caesarean section are at no significant extra risk from having the procedure carried out by non-physician clinicians, or 'clinical officers', according to major new research from the University of Birmingham published in the British Medical Journal (Friday May 20).

Plans Shape Up for a Revolutionary New Observatory to Explore Black Holes and the Big Bang

Thu, 19 May 2011 11:01:00 GMT

A new era in astronomy will come a step closer when scientists from across Europe present their design study for an advanced observatory capable of making precision measurements of gravitational waves – minute ripples in the fabric of spacetime – predicted to emanate from cosmic catastrophes such as merging black holes, collapsing stars and supernovae. It also offers the potential to probe the earliest moments of the Universe just after the Big Bang, which are currently inaccessible.

Blood cancer patients are dying while potentially life-saving drugs sit on the shelf

Tue, 17 May 2011 10:51:00 GMT

A national blood cancer charity today launches a unique network of clinical trial centres with access to up to £50 million worth of new life-saving drugs, in response to current poor survival rates for many types of leukaemia, lymphoma and myeloma, the hub of which will be Birmingham.

Remember your lunch if you want to avoid afternoon snack

Mon, 16 May 2011 10:53:00 GMT

Psychologists at the University of Birmingham have discovered that focussing on eating lunch and paying great attention to the food can reduce snacking in the afternoon, according to research published in the journal Appetite.

Leading universities unite for enhanced global engagement in Brazil mission

Mon, 16 May 2011 10:49:00 GMT

Senior academics from the University of Birmingham and the University of Nottingham are visiting Brazil this week in a joint research-focused mission.

Birmingham team scoops RCN award

Fri, 13 May 2011 16:06:00 GMT

The Collaborative South Asian Resource and Education (CARE) network in arthritis, which was developed by the Rheumatology Group at the University of Birmingham, has been awarded the Royal College of Nursing's 'Innovation in Rheumatology' prize 2011.

Researchers embark on obesity prevention trial in West Midlands school children

Thu, 12 May 2011 11:11:00 GMT

The effects of providing opportunities for healthier diet and increasing physical activity levels of primary school children in the region are to be examined in a new clinical trial. Researchers at the University of Birmingham's School of Health and Population Sciences are seeking to combat the rising obesity trend by targeting the school and family environment of the younger generation so that they will become healthier adults.

University in India Road Show to foster new mutually beneficial research links

Mon, 09 May 2011 10:43:00 GMT

Senior academics from the University of Birmingham are currently visiting five cities in India on a Road Show to develop new mutually beneficial research links and collaborations with Indian institutions, strengthen existing ties and meet potential students and alumni. The fortnight-long visit highlights the University's commitment to its ever-deepening relationship with India.

University leads drive on future herbal medicine

Thu, 05 May 2011 14:10:00 GMT

As new European laws governing the sale of herbal medicines come into force, the University of Birmingham is hosting a major international conference today (May 5) on the future of the regulation of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM).

Snorers sought for age-related breath control study

Thu, 05 May 2011 14:05:00 GMT

Researchers at the University of Birmingham are recruiting healthy snorers and non-snorers aged between 60 and 75 years to take part in research into the effect of ageing on the control of breathing.

Birmingham scientists discover 'how to stop your immune system from killing you'

Tue, 03 May 2011 09:06:00 GMT

Scientists at the University of Birmingham have discovered a 'molecular hoover' with the potential to prevent autoimmune conditions.

Parrots do tricks without looking

Thu, 28 Apr 2011 15:17:00 GMT

Ornithologists at the University of Birmingham have discovered that parrots cannot see what they are doing when they carry out the tricky manipulations of objects, for which they are renowned. While parrots have a good field of vision in front, above and behind their head, they cannot see below their bill into the region where all the manipulation occurs. The research is published today (Wed 27 April) in the journal Proceedings of the Royal Society B.

Research brings new hope of renal recovery for cancer patients

Thu, 21 Apr 2011 22:01:00 GMT

A new study conducted by researchers at the University of Birmingham has identified a 21 day treatment threshold to facilitate renal recovery and significantly improve survival rates of myeloma or Kahler's disease; a cancer of the bone marrow.

Research calls for counter-terrorism police officers to be more accountable

Tue, 12 Apr 2011 10:34:00 GMT

A new study exploring the partnership between counter-terrorism police and Muslim communities argues that police need to improve information sharing and transparency if they are to build trust and support.

Kepler Listens to an Orchestra of Solar-Type Stars

Thu, 07 Apr 2011 19:00:00 GMT

An international team of asteroseismologists, led by the University of Birmingham, has used data from the NASA Kepler Mission to sample the 'stellar music' of 500 stars similar to the Sun, according to research published today (7 April 2011) in the journal Science. The team used the information from these natural resonances, which is coded in pulses of starlight, to measure the properties of the stars and will now be able to compare their findings with predictions based on models of the Milky Way galaxy.

Doctors and Academics join forces to address the lack of new antibiotics

Thu, 07 Apr 2011 10:54:00 GMT

On world health day (April 7th 2011) academics and doctors are highlighting the continued problem of antibiotic resistant bacteria.

New drugs from mutant bugs

Thu, 07 Apr 2011 10:27:00 GMT

Scientists from the Universities of Birmingham and Bristol have discovered how marine bacteria join together two antibiotics they make independently to produce a potent chemical that can kill drug-resistant strains of the MRSA superbug.

Evaluating the impact of Every Child Counts

Mon, 04 Apr 2011 15:38:00 GMT

A major evaluation of Every Child Counts (ECC), a numeracy programme introduced into English primary schools in 2008, has shown a positive short term effect on children's numeracy skills. The evaluation, conducted by researchers from the Universities of Birmingham, Durham and York for the Department of Education, equated the improvement to seven additional weeks' progress in numeracy skills for each child.

Environmentally friendly energy resources to be explored in public showcase event

Fri, 01 Apr 2011 12:48:00 GMT

International energy experts are to share current and future hydrogen research ventures with the public in a showcase evening at the University of Birmingham on Wednesday 13 April.

Older bereaved 'die of broken immune system not broken heart'

Thu, 31 Mar 2011 13:47:00 GMT

Immunity experts at the University of Birmingham have found biological evidence to suggest that bereavement lowers physical immunity, putting older people at risk of life-threatening infections.

Clues to Stellar Evolution Revealed in Red Giants' Core

Thu, 31 Mar 2011 10:12:00 GMT

University of Birmingham asteroseimologists are part of a team of scientists who have studied approximately 600 red giant stars and have been able to distinguish between those that burn hydrogen and those that are burning helium in their cores, according to research published in the journal Nature today (30 March 11).

£2.75 Million to Engineer Future Engines and Fuels

Wed, 30 Mar 2011 14:42:00 GMT

The Universities of Birmingham and Warwick are launching a new facility today (30 March) that will help scientists to investigate the dynamic aspects of combustion of alternative fuels, as well as petrol and diesel, with the aim of reducing harmful vehicle exhaust emissions, particularly greenhouse gasses.

The clock is ticking

Thu, 24 Mar 2011 12:00:00 GMT

On March 26, we will be switching off the lights inside our iconic clock tower, 'Old Joe'. This switch-off is being undertaken in aid of Earth Hour which encourages people from around the world to switch off their lights for an hour to help ease the effects of global warming. The event run by the World Wildlife Fund aims to raise awareness of the fragility of our planet and how we all have a part to play in reducing the impact of our energy consumption.

Birmingham scientists create test to track global spread of antibiotic resistance

Thu, 17 Mar 2011 12:37:00 GMT

Scientists at the University of Birmingham have developed a molecular test that has tracked the global spread of a carrier of antibiotic resistance, according to a paper published online today by a leading medical journal.

Not So Eagle Eyed: New Study Reveals Why Birds Collide with Manmade Objects

Thu, 17 Mar 2011 11:36:00 GMT

From office block windows to power lines and wind turbines, many species of bird are prone to colliding with large manmade objects, many of which appear difficult not to notice to human eyes. A new study by a University of Birmingham Emeritus Professor outlines a new approach to understanding how birds see the world and why they find pylons and turbines so hard to avoid.

Pioneer of space research to speak at university public outreach day commemorating Space Shuttle

Wed, 16 Mar 2011 15:50:00 GMT

Top scientists and academics from the University of Birmingham are set to celebrate 30 years of the Space Shuttle with a public open day featuring activities and talks to inspire the next generation of space scientists and astronauts.

YouTube's laughing baby flags psychology research

Fri, 11 Mar 2011 11:48:00 GMT

This week's widely viewed YouTube footage of an eight-month baby laughing at a piece of paper being ripped in half reflects brand new research being carried out by psychologists at the University of Birmingham.

Get your head around the brain at University showcase

Fri, 11 Mar 2011 10:59:00 GMT

With Alzheimer's and stroke high on the list of national health concerns, the University of Birmingham is launching a major public showcase of its cutting-edge research to help people understand how the brain works, and to find out what is being done to combat some of the major neurological threats.

'Health Bus' begins first clinical research studies

Fri, 11 Mar 2011 10:22:00 GMT

The first clinical studies to take place on a pioneering mobile medical research facility developed by the University of Birmingham were beginning today (Thursday March 10).

Stair climbing reduces energy bills

Mon, 07 Mar 2011 10:40:00 GMT

A team of researchers from the University of Birmingham's School of Sport and Exercise Sciences is embarking on a stair climbing challenge to decrease the energy expenditure of businesses and to improve the health and wellbeing of workforces.

Researchers call for better spending of health and care resources in challenging financial times

Fri, 04 Mar 2011 11:34:00 GMT

Experts from the University of Birmingham are calling for a fundamental change to health and social care to ensure its survival in the current economic context. According to a major new policy paper, existing approaches to spending health and social care resources will be insufficient to respond to the current financial, demographic and social challenges we face.

Global citizens found in the most unlikely places

Tue, 01 Mar 2011 12:27:00 GMT

Unauthorised immigrants are the most direct enactors of global citizenship according to a new book by a human rights expert at the University of Birmingham.

Birmingham pushes ahead on global scourge of TB

Fri, 25 Feb 2011 09:42:00 GMT

Scientists at the University of Birmingham have taken a crucial first step towards deciphering the atomic make-up of a key drug target in tuberculosis (TB).

Volunteers wanted to improve health and fitness by exercising less

Thu, 24 Feb 2011 10:25:00 GMT

Researchers at the University of Birmingham's School of Sport and Exercise Sciences are calling for volunteers to take part in a study investigating the use of high intensity interval training (HIT) as a means to improve health and fitness.

University research reveals public ignorance over non-emergency calls

Tue, 22 Feb 2011 09:53:00 GMT

Less than one in three people fully understands when not to call the emergency services, according to a new study from the University of Birmingham.

Scientists study blood pressure in minority ethnic groups

Fri, 18 Feb 2011 15:19:00 GMT

Scientists at the University of Birmingham are encouraging people from minority ethnic groups to join a research study into blood pressure monitoring.

Dr Bill Chaplin to Speak at Press Conference, AAAS Annual Meeting, Kepler: Looking for other Earths

Thu, 17 Feb 2011 11:30:00 GMT

Dr Bill Chaplin, Reader in Solar and Stellar Physics, from the University of Birmingham's School of Physics and Astronomy, will speak at the American Association for the Advancement of Science press conference on Saturday 19 February 2010.

Volunteers needed for weight loss study

Fri, 11 Feb 2011 12:08:00 GMT

Researchers at the University of Birmingham's School of Sport and Exercise Sciences are looking for volunteers to take part in a study investigating whether successful weight loss can alter perception.

Seeing the Sun from all Angles

Wed, 09 Feb 2011 16:29:00 GMT

A unique 360 degree view of the Sun was unveiled on Sunday 6 February 2011 when NASA's two STEREO spacecraft were aligned exactly opposite each other on either side of the Sun. The camera systems on board the spacecraft were developed by University of Birmingham physicists and engineers, together with colleagues at the Science and Technology Facilities Council Rutherford Appleton Laboratory.

New Research Points to the Benefits of Being all Fingers and Thumbs

Thu, 03 Feb 2011 15:45:00 GMT

Gesturing with our hands helps us to solve spatial visualisation problems, a skill that is necessary in many professions and in our daily lives, according to research by University of Birmingham psychologists published this week in the Journal of Experimental Psychology: General by Dr Mingyuan Chu and Dr Sotaro Kita.

Birmingham researchers explore benefits of physical activity on postnatal depression

Thu, 03 Feb 2011 15:42:00 GMT

Scientists at the University of Birmingham are appealing for new mothers to take part in a study into the effects of physical activity on postnatal depression.

Top universities unite for success

Thu, 03 Feb 2011 00:01:00 GMT

The University of Birmingham and the University of Nottingham have today announced a new framework for collaboration.The partnership will see the comprehensive large research-led universities working together for mutual success in a range of different areas, including research initiatives, student experience, business engagement and internationalisation.

Physicists scale up invisibility cloaks using natural crystals

Tue, 01 Feb 2011 16:00:00 GMT

Physicists from the University of Birmingham, with colleagues at Imperial College, London, and Technical University of Denmark, have demonstrated an 'invisibility cloak' that can hide a three-dimensional object, centimetres in dimension, large enough for the cloaking area to be visible to the human eye, according to research published in the journal Nature Communications.

University of Birmingham awards £30,000 to enterprising academics

Fri, 21 Jan 2011 14:30:00 GMT

Commercial innovations to improve rehab for brain injuries and develop the next generation of robots rewarded at business showcaseTwo researchers from the University of Birmingham have been awarded £15,000 at the inaugural Enterprising Birmingham – Business Plan Competition showcase to enable development of their research expertise into viable business opportunities.

University research fuels new trauma centre

Thu, 20 Jan 2011 09:46:00 GMT

A £20 million trauma care collaboration between the University of Birmingham, University Hospitals Birmingham Foundation Trust, the Department of Health and the Ministry of Defence is officially launched today.

Volunteers needed to test how exercise influences response to pneumonia and flu vaccinations

Mon, 17 Jan 2011 14:51:00 GMT

Researchers at the University of Birmingham's School of Sport and Exercise Sciences are looking for volunteers to take part in a study examining whether exercise can enhance antibody response to vaccinations, such as the seasonal flu jab.

Individual patient budgets will create a more efficient healthcare system

Thu, 06 Jan 2011 15:14:00 GMT

Individual patient budgets should play a bigger part in health and social care according to a major new report edited by experts from the University of Birmingham and the Centre for Welfare Reform. It argues that putting individuals in control of their own care budget will improve outcomes and efficiency.

Great Cormorants enjoy warmer Arctic seas

Mon, 20 Dec 2010 14:34:00 GMT

Populations of Great Cormorants in Arctic waters have grown as sea ice has retreated and the sea surface has become warmer, University of Birmingham scientists have found.

Lost civilization under Persian Gulf?

Mon, 20 Dec 2010 11:35:00 GMT

A once fertile landmass now submerged beneath the Persian Gulf may have been home to some of the earliest human populations outside Africa, according to an article in the December issue of Current Anthropology.

University of Birmingham vaccine technology is rising star in new biotech company

Wed, 15 Dec 2010 12:24:00 GMT

University of Birmingham spin-out company, Hybrid BioSystems Ltd (Hybrid) has today [Wednesday 15 December 2010] announced its merger with Myotec Therapeutics Ltd (Myotec) to form a new biotechnology company that will develop novel treatments for cancer and wasting diseases.

Manufacturing competitive advantage: A global tale of place, brand and design

Thu, 09 Dec 2010 11:34:00 GMT

Distinctive design remains the most effective way to produce a product and survive in business today in high cost manufacturing locations, according to researchers at the University of Birmingham in a book out today (Thursday 9 December 2010) entitled 'Design Economies and the Changing World Economy'.

Early universe was a liquid: The ALICE experiment announces first results from lead nuclei collisions at the LHC

Mon, 22 Nov 2010 12:26:00 GMT

In an experiment to collide lead nuclei together at CERN's Large Hadron Collider physicists from the ALICE detector team including researchers from the University of Birmingham have discovered that the very early Universe was not only very hot and dense but behaved like a hot liquid.

Cancer drug target is promising lead for new TB treatments

Wed, 17 Nov 2010 10:20:00 GMT

A key enzyme in Mycobacterium tuberculosis that enables the microbe to reproduce rapidly could be a golden target for new drugs against tuberculosis (TB), according to a study published in Microbiology on 17 November by scientists at the University of Birmingham.

Failing to see the way ahead: Power line peril for South Africa's birds

Wed, 03 Nov 2010 15:39:00 GMT

Ornithologists from the University of Birmingham have joined forces with researchers from the University of Cape Town to come up with a new way of tackling the problem of birds colliding with power lines, which results in a high number of fatalities in Blue Cranes, South Africa's national bird, and Ludwig's Bustards.

Mini Big Bangs - UK scientists gear up for first lead particle collisions at the LHC

Tue, 02 Nov 2010 11:07:00 GMT

Birmingham physicists working at CERN's Large Hadron Collider (LHC) in Switzerland are gearing up to study a piece of the Universe as it would have been just moments after the Big Bang.

Birmingham Lecturer to visit Westminster as part of scientist and MP pairing scheme

Mon, 01 Nov 2010 10:17:00 GMT

A University of Birmingham Lecturer will visit Westminster this week as part of a scheme which aims to build links between MPs, civil servants and scientific researchers.

Volunteers needed to take part in falls study

Thu, 28 Oct 2010 16:27:00 GMT

Researchers at the University of Birmingham's School of Sport and Exercise Sciences are looking for volunteers to take part in a study examining the effects of age, physical frailty and cognitive decline, on where we look when walking.

Singing stars give away their age

Tue, 26 Oct 2010 16:57:00 GMT

Asteroseismologists from the University of Birmingham have studied a star in our galaxy, the Milky Way, which is older and bigger than our Sun and has certain characteristics that signify its age and internal properties, according to a paper in the Astrophysical Journal, announced at a NASA press conference today, Tuesday 26th October 2010, in Aarhus, Denmark.

Researchers call for new system to support disabled children and their families

Tue, 26 Oct 2010 10:54:00 GMT

A major new policy paper edited by experts in health and social care from the University of Birmingham and The Centre for Welfare Reform proposes radical reforms to the welfare system to get the best outcomes for disabled children and their families.

Drug trial success could reduce the risk of bladder cancer recurring by a third

Mon, 25 Oct 2010 17:01:00 GMT

A MAJOR bladder cancer trial, funded by Cancer Research UK, has shown that adding two commonly used chemotherapy drugs to traditional radiotherapy can reduce the chance of a patient's tumour coming back by a third.

University's research informs new cardiology treatment guidelines for atrial fibrillation

Thu, 14 Oct 2010 10:43:00 GMT

New European guidelines on the treatment of atrial fibrillation now include risk assessment tools developed by the University of Birmingham which could lead to improvements in stroke prevention for patients with this common condition.

Volunteers needed to test exercise immune response

Wed, 13 Oct 2010 12:49:00 GMT

New Chair for National HE STEM Programme

Wed, 06 Oct 2010 11:09:00 GMT

Former Economic Secretary to the Treasury and Science Minister Ian Pearson has been appointed Chair of the National Higher Education STEM Programme Advisory Forum.

The University of Birmingham enters business partnership with Johnson Matthey Colour Technologies

Fri, 01 Oct 2010 12:24:00 GMT

The University of Birmingham has recently teamed up with Johnson Matthey Colour Technologies, a market leader in high performance materials, to investigate techniques in the characterisation of ceramic pigments.

£650,000 funding grant awarded to West Midlands' foremost research universities

Fri, 01 Oct 2010 10:28:00 GMT

The University of Birmingham and the University of Warwick have been awarded a £650,000 research grant by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) for a collaborative project developing new materials for a highly efficient class of fuel cells.

Of Good Character

Thu, 30 Sep 2010 15:45:00 GMT

What part do the family, community values, the media and religion play in influencing and shaping character? How young people's values and virtues are formed in modern society is one of the key themes of a brand new book by education expert Professor James Arthur, of the University of Birmingham.

New training system for armed forces: Simulating bomb disposal scenario

Thu, 30 Sep 2010 13:13:00 GMT

New ways to train Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) teams using virtual environments are being developed by researchers at the University of Birmingham's School of Electronic, Electrical and Computer Engineering.

Major breast cancer research funding for Birmingham

Mon, 27 Sep 2010 13:10:00 GMT

Breast Cancer Campaign has awarded a research grant worth almost £200,000 to Dr Jo Morris at the University of Birmingham which could improve the lives of women at high risk of breast cancer.

Birmingham Physicists are ready for 'lift off' to study Dark Side of Universe

Mon, 27 Sep 2010 13:07:00 GMT

A space mission that will study the universe by observing gravitational waves has been recommended by the US National Research Council as one of NASA's next two major space missions. Birmingham physicists would play a major role in this mission, which will answer key scientific questions about the astrophysics of the cosmic dawn, the physics of the early universe and lead to the direct observations of black holes at the centre of galaxies.

Birmingham's brightest could win 15k

Thu, 23 Sep 2010 13:01:00 GMT

The University of Birmingham is delighted to announce that 16 business ideas, from a variety of researchers, have been shortlisted for their chance to win 15k to help develop their research into a commercially viable opportunity.

Birmingham astronomers aim to unlock secrets of the universe with the world's largest radio telescope

Tue, 21 Sep 2010 16:47:00 GMT

Academics at the University of Birmingham are hoping to find the origins of the universe after helping to develop the world's largest radio telescope, which was launched this week in Chilbolton, Hampshire.

Centre of Excellence in blood cancer research unveiled in Birmingham

Mon, 20 Sep 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Blood cancer patients and survivors joined researchers and doctors at the University of Birmingham and Queen Elizabeth Hospital to celebrate its unveiling as a 'Centre of Excellence' by the national blood cancer charity Leukaemia & Lymphoma Research.

Honda's FCX Clarity makes a pitstop at the University

Fri, 17 Sep 2010 15:10:00 GMT

Car manufacturer Honda's ground-breaking hydrogen fuel cell car, the FCX Clarity, will come to the University of Birmingham to be refuelled as it embarks on a week long series of events in the UK.

Building work starts on University's human tissue bank

Fri, 17 Sep 2010 15:09:00 GMT

Construction work has started on the building that will house a licensed human tissue bank at the University of Birmingham, set up with £2.5 million of funding from Birmingham Science City, via Advantage West Midlands.

Over 65s needed for ageing research

Fri, 17 Sep 2010 15:08:00 GMT

Researchers at the University of Birmingham are trying to recruit 1,000 people over the age of 65 for a series of study projects.

Research could lead to 'switching off' early stage rheumatoid arthritis

Wed, 15 Sep 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Rheumatologists at the University of Birmingham have identified a window in the progression of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) when the disease could be more effectively controlled and even 'switched off'.

Gravitational waves and black holes - seeing the 'unseeable'

Tue, 14 Sep 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Birmingham physicists are using a completely new type of large-scale instrument to capture gravitational waves and study the dark side of the universe.

Age of enlightenment

Mon, 13 Sep 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Immunologists at the University of Birmingham are shedding fresh light on the links between life stresses, such as the death of a spouse or a serious fall, and failing health in older people.

Metal-mining bacteria are green chemists

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 00:01:00 GMT

Microbes could soon be used to convert metallic wastes into high-value catalysts for generating clean energy, say scientists from the University of Birmingham's School of Biosciences, writing in the September issue of Microbiology.

PhD student featured in photography showcase

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 00:01:00 GMT

A University of Birmingham PhD student is to feature in a major photographic exhibition highlighting the value of legacies to UK charities.

Research aims to slash waiting times for young people with mental illness

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Waiting times for young people experiencing serious mental health problems such as psychosis could be drastically cut thanks to a research project being led by the University of Birmingham. The delay between the onset of symptoms and effective treatment currently stands at around a year but experts are aiming to reduce this to just three months.

Skills shortage threatens the UK's thriving manufacturing industry

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 14:15:00 GMT

British manufacturing is thriving, not declining, due to innovative strategies by companies, but is at risk of collapse due to a severe shortage of skills, a researcher from the University of Birmingham's School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences announced today (Thursday 2nd September) at the Royal Geographical Society's (with IBG)'s annual conference.

Nobel prize winner comes to Birmingham

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 15:25:00 GMT

One of the world's leading virologists will be speaking at the International Epstein-Barr Virus Conference, which takes place at the University of Birmingham from September 4-7.

Stroke survivors could benefit from listening to regular beat

Tue, 10 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMT

A joint project between the University of Birmingham and the University of Worcester is looking into how listening to a regular beat could help stroke survivors improve their walking and reduce the risk of a fall.

A new henge discovered at Stonehenge

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

History is set to be rewritten after an archaeology team led by the University of Birmingham and the Ludwig Boltzmann Institute discovered a major ceremonial monument less than one kilometre away from the iconic Stonehenge.

Birmingham archaeologists help uncover identity of First World War soldier

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Archaeologists from the University of Birmingham helped to identify the remains of a soldier killed in the First World War. He will now be reburied with his fallen comrades almost a century after he died on a Belgian battlefield.

From Elgar to electrocoustics - Birmingham's groundbreaking musical heritage lives on

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The official start of the work to build the University of Birmingham's new auditorium will be marked by a groundbreaking event, led by Liz and Terry Bramall, major donors to the project.

£130 million world-class manufacturing technology centre work on track

Tue, 13 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The University of Birmingham is a partner in building a Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) at Ansty Park, Coventry. This new centre will help put the Midlands at the forefront of global manufacturing research.

Birmingham trial demonstrates benefits of self-management for high blood pressure

Thu, 08 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

People with hypertension who self-test at home and adjust their medication accordingly are more likely to see their blood pressure drop than people receiving standard care, according to new research from the University of Birmingham.

University academic wins top physics prize

Tue, 06 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

A University of Birmingham nuclear physicist has been awarded the prestigious 2010 Rutherford medal and prize for his research work on light nuclei.

Birmingham archaeologists turn back clock at Stonehenge

Mon, 05 Jul 2010 00:01:00 GMT

Archaeologists at the University of Birmingham are heading to Stonehenge to lead the world's biggest-ever virtual excavation. The Stonehenge Hidden Landscapes Project, which starts today (Monday July 5), will use the latest geophysical imaging techniques to visually recreate the iconic prehistoric monument and its surroundings.

Enterprising pupils are fired up for ROCKET business challenge

Tue, 29 Jun 2010 00:01:00 GMT

Would-be entrepreneurs from four Birmingham schools are taking part in a challenge to test their business acumen. The ROCKET Challenge 2010 is being launched at the University of Birmingham Business School on June 30 and will see dozens of Year 11 and 12 pupils from across the city take part in a two-week business event.

Physicists drop supercold exotic matter

Tue, 22 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

A Birmingham physicist, along with a team of European scientists, has demonstrated a new technique to recreate Galileo's drop experiment with an exotic state of matter called a Bose Einstein condensate.

Scientists identify twelve atmospheric services that should be protected by a law of the atmosphere

Mon, 21 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Twelve services provided by the Earth's atmosphere that are vital to human well-being and existence, have been identified by meteorologists and scientists at the University of Birmingham.

Meeting of medical minds

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Leading lights of UK/US medical research in areas such as cancer, liver and renal medicine will have the chance to share ideas and work together, thanks to an innovative clinical exchange programme.

Navigating the canals by hydrogen barge

Tue, 15 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The University of Birmingham's hydrogen powered narrow boat 'the Ross Barlow' has set sail on its first major canal cruise.

Unique mobile medical research facility launched

Thu, 10 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The first mobile medical research facility in the UK is set to transform the way that clinical research for major health issues like diabetes, obesity and ageing is carried out in the community.

Report highlights potential benefits and challenges for GP budget holding

Thu, 10 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Government plans to give GPs greater control of NHS budgets are a step in the right direction but must be implemented carefully if they are to deliver benefits for patients, according to a major new report published today by the University of Birmingham's Health Services Management Centre.

Fair play or foul? World Cup sportsmanship under scrutiny at Birmingham

Mon, 31 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Sports psychologists at the University of Birmingham are investigating how factors such as motivation can influence how likely a football player is to adopt antisocial behaviour in their quest for victory in contests such as the World Cup.

New technology will make election voting more efficient

Thu, 27 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Time-consuming manual vote-counts and ballot boxes could soon be consigned to the history books, thanks to innovative new secure voting technology.

Climate change research will help local planning departments

Wed, 26 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Award-winning pioneering work by academics at the University of Birmingham could have a dramatic influence on how Birmingham City Council copes with extreme weather situations.

Can Vitamin D help prevent arthritis? Birmingham scientists ask

Mon, 24 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Scientists at the University of Birmingham are about to embark on the first stage of research which could see vitamin D used alongside, or even instead of, current treatments for rheumatoid arthritis.

Energy research to create 'Greener' teens

Fri, 21 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Computer scientists at the University of Birmingham have won funding from the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council to work on a groundbreaking study into teenage energy consumption that could change the behaviour of a whole generation.

Families and professional carers are central to a child's character development

Fri, 21 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Youngsters learn strategic negotiating skills from one another and their carers as they acquire a sense of moral awareness, a key University of Birmingham and Canterbury Christ Church University study into child development has found.

New centre investigates the wealth chasm: in housing, pensions and financial assets

Wed, 19 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The University of Birmingham is to launch a new centre dedicated to understanding how we manage our personal savings and assets, from pensions to mortgages.

University launches major initiative to study complex diseases

Wed, 19 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The University of Birmingham is launching a major new initiative that will exploit state of the art technologies and high performance computing to unravel mechanisms of complex diseases, discover new diagnostic markers, and ultimately improve patient treatment and care.

HIV patients hold clues to Salmonella vaccine development

Fri, 23 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

A study published today in the journal Science led by researchers from the University of Birmingham offers a long-awaited explanation for the link between HIV infection and susceptibility to life-threatening nontyphoidal strains of Salmonella.

Cancer Research UK launch national Children's Cancer Trials Team in Birmingham

Fri, 16 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Birmingham will be at the forefront of developments in childhood cancer research thanks to the launch of a new centre which will co-ordinate groundbreaking clinical trials across the UK. The Cancer Research UK Children's Clinical Trials Team at the University of Birmingham will play a major role in the development of new treatments for childhood cancers.

High Speed Rail - Britain's 21st century travel solution?

Tue, 16 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Andrew McNaughton, the Chief Engineer of High Speed Two, the company set up to develop high speed rail in Britain, will give a talk at the University of Birmingham's Centre for Railway Research and Education on Thursday 18 March 2010 at 5pm.

Medical research to improve quality of life for diabetes patients

Wed, 24 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

University of Birmingham scientists are carrying out pioneering research which aims to improve care for diabetes patients in south Birmingham where more than 14% of all deaths are related to the condition.

Birmingham Families Needed for Study

Fri, 19 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Birmingham families with youngsters aged six and below are being called on by the University of Birmingham to take part in new studies into children's development.

Researching A New Living Concept That Won't Cost the Earth

Thu, 04 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Civil engineers from the University of Birmingham are conducting research to evaluate the thermal performance of a new type of house called the 'Ergohome'. The Ergohome, which is situated on the University's campus, is a new living concept which includes built-in sustainable features to address future housing needs.

The Quick and the Dead

Wed, 03 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Scientists at the University of Birmingham have been carrying out 'laboratory gunfights' to show that we move faster when we react to something in our environment than we do when we initiate the action ourselves. It is an idea inspired by cowboy movies, but in reality it's more useful for avoiding oncoming traffic. Funded by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) and the Wellcome Trust, the research is published today (03 February 2010) in Proceedings of the Royal Society B.

Tamiflu proves no defence against swine flu virus

Wed, 09 Dec 2009 20:45:00 GMT

Treating suspected cases of swine flu with tamiflu in patients who are otherwise healthy provides no real benefit, according to researchers at the University of Birmingham.In research published on bmj.com, Professor Nick Freemantle and Dr Melanie Calvert found that oseltamivir, or tamiflu, the drug used to treat the H1N1 stain of the flu virus, does not necessarily prevent complications of the virus in otherwise healthy patients. It may, they conclude, have a very modest effect on reducing symptoms, but that benefit is small and the side effects and safety of the drug should be considered.

Scientists Celebrate First Physics Results from the LHC

Tue, 01 Dec 2009 21:00:00 GMT

Birmingham physicists have played a key role in producing the first results from CERN's Large Hadron Collider, a 27km underground tunnel near Geneva, where scientists are colliding together particles to discover what happened a millionth of a second after the Big Bang.

Birmingham Physicists' Hopes for First Particle Collisions

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 22:36:00 GMT

Birmingham physicists are delighted that their experiments at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC), that aim to find what happened just after the Big Bang, will soon be underway as scientists have successfully collided together two low-energy beams of protons for the first time.

Treatment to open blocked kidney arteries shows no real benefit to patients

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 22:44:00 GMT

Treating patients who suffer from narrowing of the main blood vessel to the kidney by inserting a metal stent provides little or no worthwhile clinical benefit, and given the risk of serious complications it should be used less, according to an international trial led by the University of Birmingham.

Rolls-Royce Research Partnership to Develop Next Generation Materials for Cleaner, More Efficient Gas Turbines

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 22:49:00 GMT

Rolls-Royce and the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council, (EPSRC), are to work jointly with three UK universities, including the University of Birmingham, in a new £50 million strategic partnership that will develop materials skills and knowledge to support the development of future gas turbines.

A Natural Solution to Controlling Appetite - A New Approach by Birmingham Engineers to Tackle Obesity

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 22:51:00 GMT

Scientists at the University of Birmingham's School of Chemical Engineering have developed an aqueous solution that gels into a solid structure in the stomach, curbing appetite.

Funding Future Discoveries

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 23:00:00 GMT

The University of Birmingham is encouraging everyone to play a part in financing future discoveries with far-reaching benefits, as it launches its £60 million fundraising campaign this week.

£40m confirmed for Manufacturing Technology Centre

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 22:59:00 GMT

The University of Birmingham will be a research partner in the world class Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) to be built at Ansty Park research and development site outside Coventry, which received public funding approval from Government today (Thursday 29th October 09).

Ancient Middle Eastern Boat Replica Scanned to Preserve it for Future Generations

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 23:09:00 GMT

Birmingham archaeologists will arrive in Oman this week to carry out the laser scanning of a replica of an ancient Arab Dhow ship that was used in trading between the Gulf and China in the 9th Century.

Training the Energy Researchers of the Future

Wed, 07 Oct 2009 23:26:00 GMT

A new £3m venture will help the next generation of scientists and engineers meet the biggest challenges of the 21st century.

Global economic crisis could lead to further conflict in Africa, experts warn

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 23:32:00 GMT

Research from the University of Birmingham has revealed that the global financial crisis could lead to more conflict in Sub-Saharan Africa.