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Inaugural Lecture Series

An inaugural lecture is a prestigious academic event that celebrates the promotion of a colleague to professorship, marking a significant milestone in their academic journey. Inaugural lectures have been an integral part of university life for centuries, and the University of Derby proudly continues this tradition. 

These events serve as an invaluable platform for newly appointed professors to present their groundbreaking research, highlight their accomplishments in research, innovation, engagement, and teaching, and demonstrate the societal impact of their work. 

Inaugural lectures at the University of Derby are open to the public and free of charge. You don't need to be an expert in the field to attend, as the university warmly invites all staff, students, their guests, and members of the local community to participate.

All our lectures are free of charge and attendance is open to all. Each lecture will be recorded and a video will be made available to watch after the event.

Our in-person lectures are followed by an informal drinks reception.

Upcoming Events

A cockroach
public lecture

In this Inaugural Lecture, Professor Naveed Khan will discuss how some of nature’s toughest survivors could inspire new ways to fight infection, disease and other challenges to human health. From cockroaches thriving in polluted environments to crocodiles surviving serious injuries, he will explore the surprising science behind these remarkable species and how their microbes and natural compounds could shape future treatments - from new antibiotics and cancer therapies to the challenges of human space travel.

A black background with gold flecks on, and a black title and gold border that reads Inaugural Lectures

View Inaugural Lecture video transcript

Previous Lectures