Year in pictures: autumn 2026
Bend it like Bellingham
Football stars of the future were on campus for the quarter-finals of the Trevor Francis Memorial Cup, the city-wide secondary schools’ competition sponsored by the University as part of a strategic partnership with Birmingham City Football Club. Tudor Grange Academy would go on to win the boys’ final, while Plantsbrook School lifted the trophy in the girls’ tournament.
Global gatherings
More than 600 Birmingham graduates attended 37 Global Alumni Gatherings this year to celebrate the birthday of their alma mater, including a group in Taipei who met for a yacht party!
A special ceremony in Shanghai saw nearly 200 recent alumni of the University join Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Adam Tickell and other senior members of the University for a graduation celebration. Those taking part were recognised on stage, receiving a graduation scroll and professional photograph before celebrating with friends and family.
Best in show
The evolution of plants and life forms from their first appearance on our planet through to the present day was showcased at BBC Gardeners' World Live 2026 this summer. The Garden of Evolution, created by our Professor of Public Engagement in Science, Professor Alice Roberts, and acclaimed international garden designer Professor David Stevens, was awarded a Platinum Medal and named Best in Show.
Success stories
Alumna Zaynab Sohawon (BSc Human Neuroscience, 2019) was named Young Professional of the Year at the prestigious West Midlands Lieutenancy Young Active Citizen Awards this summer, in recognition of her outstanding contribution to improving the lives of autistic young people across the region.
University scientists demonstrated their research expertise in formulation engineering and laser-driven radiotherapy at the Royal Society Summer Science Exhibition in London. Members of the public enjoyed exciting hands-on activities, talks and interactive exhibits.
Credit: The Royal Society