Making a difference

Find out more about our Civic University Agreement, the regeneration of the city and the future of innovation and research at the University.

Read more in this latest issue. 

Editor's Letter

I am always amazed at how quickly we get to this point of the year – so much has already been accomplished at the University, and by the time the next issue of this magazine comes around I've no doubt there will be plenty to talk about then.

As the months have been flying by, we have been busy preparing for the launch of our Civic University Agreement (CUA) which you can read about in this issue.

Rosie Marshalsay smiling broadly

I have been lucky enough to be involved in the development of the Civic University Agreement and it is fantastic to see it come to fruition.

Rosie Marshalsay
Editor

Looking ahead, it should be a real game-changer for how the University works with partners and stakeholders across the city and county to realise their collective civic ambitions.

The much-anticipated REF 2021 results, providing an indication of a university’s research quality, were published in early May. They are the focus of our Research feature which delves into what REF is and how the process works, shining a spotlight on Derby’s REF journey and the impact its research is having.

We explore what it means to be a university and the breadth of activity that takes place at Derby that goes beyond teaching and learning, as well as the city’s grand regeneration plans and how they align to the University’s longer-term vision.

Readers intrigued by Netflix hits Inventing Anna and the Tinder Swindler will find our Science of the Con feature fascinating as it investigates how cons work, and why so many people fall for them. There is also some helpful advice from Derbyshire Constabulary on how to avoid being caught out by a con.

You can also read about the rewilding project at Allestree Park, and how midwives of the future, including those studying at Derby, are being inspired to embark on a career that is rewarding and challenging in equal measure.

Our students and graduates continue to make us proud, and we are thrilled to be able highlight some of their stories in this issue. If you’ve wandered down Iron Gate in Derby city centre recently then you will have seen the wonderful rainbow ribbon canopy on display. This creation is by Amy Vallance, one of our talented students, and is meant to represent joy which it certainly does as you can’t fail to smile when you see it.

I hope you enjoy reading this issue and, as ever, we would welcome your feedback (good or bad!) as we’re keen to continue enhancing this publication based on what you would like to read and find out about.

Have a wonderful summer,

Rosie Marshalsay

We would welcome your feedback