The Snow Queen

This year’s College Christmas Production of The Snow Queen, saw the Prospect Theatre transformed into an icy land. Student performers wowed audiences over three nights on Wednesday 10th, Thursday 11th and Friday 12th December.

Following the successes of last year's The Dream the collaboration between Production Drama, Musical Theatre and Dance Company presented their interpretation of the Hans Christian Anderson classic in a dark, wintry wonderland with some stunning talent on show.

Director and Senior Curriculum Manager for Drama and Theatre, Matt Sheppard said “The production has been another resounding triumph with so many favourable comments from audience members, this is in no small measure down to the students and incredible team of staff behind the production.

Jennii Luperi, Musical Theatre Director commented “I am immensely proud of the work of all the students. They have surpassed expectations by confidently tackling complex harmonies and have proved their ability to work together as an ensemble.”

Sally Reed, Curriculum Manager Dance and Caitlin McStay, Subject Tutor Dance added “We are both immensely proud of the students’ hard work and achievement in dance, with the wide ranging styles including contemporary, jive and contact. All of the dancers have contributed to the choreographic decisions made in the process and we are both proud of the standard of work produced”.

Katy Bevan, who played Hyacinth in the production commented "The Snow Queen has been really fun and I've so enjoyed being part of the ensemble and the success of the show."

See more pictures of 'The Snow Queen' on our College Instagram.

» more

The Snow Queen

This year’s College Christmas Production of The Snow Queen, saw the Prospect Theatre transformed into an icy land. Student performers wowed audiences over three nights on Wednesday 10th, Thursday 11th and Friday 12th December.

Following the successes of last year's The Dream the collaboration between Production Drama, Musical Theatre and Dance Company presented their interpretation of the Hans Christian Anderson classic in a dark, wintry wonderland with some stunning talent on show.

Director and Senior Curriculum Manager for Drama and Theatre, Matt Sheppard said “The production has been another resounding triumph with so many favourable comments from audience members, this is in no small measure down to the students and incredible team of staff behind the production.

Jennii Luperi, Musical Theatre Director commented “I am immensely proud of the work of all the students. They have surpassed expectations by confidently tackling complex harmonies and have proved their ability to work together as an ensemble.”

Sally Reed, Curriculum Manager Dance and Caitlin McStay, Subject Tutor Dance added “We are both immensely proud of the students’ hard work and achievement in dance, with the wide ranging styles including contemporary, jive and contact. All of the dancers have contributed to the choreographic decisions made in the process and we are both proud of the standard of work produced”.

Katy Bevan, who played Hyacinth in the production commented "The Snow Queen has been really fun and I've so enjoyed being part of the ensemble and the success of the show."

See more pictures of 'The Snow Queen' on our College Instagram.

» more

Senior co-design manager (research data)

Research Data – is the effective management and re-use of research data, and is key to increasing the effectiveness, efficiency and quality of research undertaken within UK universities. Working as part of a team, this role will oversee some of our activities in the research data area, including planning new projects and services to help universities improve how research data is managed, maintained, discovered and-used.

This roles requires the successful candidate to use the principles of co-design to specify, analyse, deliver and drive innovation for Higher Education in close collaboration with our customers, relevant experts and representative bodies. Additionally, this role will provide specialist advice on how developments and trends in technology in their particular area (in this case research data) can be translated into new products and services that Jisc will deliver to support our customers.

We need someone with a range of skills including:

• A good degree and/or relevant professional qualification
• Project and programme management skills 
• A strong background in the research data sector
• The ability to plan and monitor project budgets, as well as delivering projects on time
• Deep understanding and experience of eliciting customer needs
• Experience in designing and delivering programmes of work
• Excellent oral, written communication and inter-personal skills to engage with the HE sector and bodies such as the research councils
• The ability to act and work independently and as an effective and enthusiastic team member

Download full job description (pdf)

Download application form (Word docx)

and diversity monitoring questionnaire (Word docx). 

Read the guidance notes for applicants (pdf).

Benefits

These include:

• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays
• employee assistance programme
• generous contributory pension scheme (USS)
• cycle to work scheme
• season ticket loans
• childcare voucher scheme

Location

Jisc has offices in various locations - this role can be based in Bristol or London. Jisc is a geographically distributed organisation and travel to other locations may be required. 

Closing date

The closing date for applications is Friday 2 January at 12:00 noon.

How to apply

If you are interested in applying please complete the application form and return it to our HR team recruitment@jisc.ac.uk CVs will not be accepted without a completed application form.

Please note that any appointment made is subject to receipt of satisfactory references.

No agencies please.

If you have any questions about the application process please email recruitment@jisc.ac.uk or call the HR team directly on 0203 697 5854.

Closing date 2 January 2015

Salary range from £40,847

Contract Contract

Contract Full-time fixed term for two years

» more

Piece Makers (The Fusilier Museum)

The Fusilier Museum, Bury

14 January 2015 - 27 June 2015

This thought-provoking exhibition displays the artistic results of 'Piece Makers', a two-year collaboration between the National Army Museum, soldiers drawn from rehabilitation and support centres, and contemporary artist Susan Stockwell.

read more

» more

Piece Makers (KOSB Regimental Museum)

KOSB Regimental Museum, Berwick-upon-Tweed

6 July 2015 - 28 September 2015

This thought-provoking exhibition displays the artistic results of 'Piece Makers', a two-year collaboration between the National Army Museum, soldiers drawn from rehabilitation and support centres, and contemporary artist Susan Stockwell.

read more

» more

Efficient sharing of university data is closer than you think

Open data is enabling higher education institutions to discover and make the most of opportunities to collaborate, share equipment and expertise. Adrian Cox, project manager at equipment.data, writes about how how this kind of collaboration is helping to achieve efficiencies.

The post Efficient sharing of university data is closer than you think appeared first on Efficiency Exchange.

» more

Growth Dashboard Workshops.

The Enterprise Research Centre (ERC)  in collaboration with GrowthAccelerator conducted a series of One day Workshops around the UK. LEP’s from all  Local Areas were invited  for discussion on the Growth Dashboard and its findings. The aim of the Workshops were to ensure that our  future work delivers some of what  LEP colleagues said they would find […]

The post Growth Dashboard Workshops. appeared first on Enterprise Research Centre.

» more

A new route to innovation – by Dr Matt Reed

Senior Research Fellow, Dr Matthew Reed, recently wrote a blog piece about the importance of innovation for The Growth Hub. The Growth Hub is a collaboration between GFirst and the University of Gloucestershire, who have come together to create a innovative way of supporting new and existing businesses to maximise their potential. The blog is replicated below: […]

» more

Putting the brakes on cancer

A study led by the University of Dundee, in collaboration with the University of Bath, has uncovered an important role played by a tumour suppressor gene, helping scientists to better understand how it combats the effects of mutations which drive cancer development. The research, published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) USA, shows how an enzyme called Dual-specificity phosphatase 5 (DUSP5)  supresses tumour formation by 'switching off' another enzyme called ERK, which is involved in driving cell proliferation and survival. The abnormal cell growth seen in cancers is often caused by mutations in so-called ‘oncogenes’. One of the most important of these is called ‘Ras’ and once mutated and activated, it can send powerful signals through ERK to drive tumour formation. The new study shows that DUSP5, by ‘switching off’ ERK, can act as a tumour suppressor and put the brakes on cancer development. The University of Dundee’s Professor Stephen Keyse, head of the Cancer Research UK Stress Response Laboratory at Ninewells Hospital, explained, “We know quite a lot about the way cancer-causing genes get switched on and drive the abnormal growth seen in tumours, but far less about the ways that our cells can react to this and try and suppress the dangerous signals that oncogenes propagate. “Our work reveals that DUSP5 has an important role in protecting cells against the cancer causing effects of Ras mutations. It does this by switching off ERK in the cell nucleus and preventing the expression of other genes, which act to change cellular behaviour and promote tumour growth”    Dr Jim Caunt, Lecturer in Biology & Biochemistry at the University of Bath, said, “This study shows that DUSP5 has a protective effect in cancer using a model that replicates a number of features akin to human tumour development - when DUSP5 function is lost, exposure to certain cancer-promoting agents results in many more tumours.” Moving forward, this work will form the basis of future studies of DUSP5 and help determine whether it can also suppress Ras-induced tumours in lung, pancreas and intestine, all common sites of human cancer. “It will also be vital to study the expression of DUSP5 in human tumours to see if its expression is lost as part of the mechanism by which tumours progress,” added Professor Keyse. “Overall, the more we know about the ‘wiring’ of cancer cells and can unravel the complex interactions that occur in the way that cancer causing signals are processed, the better placed we will be to try and design new interventions and treatments.” The paper is available to read here: http://www.pnas.org/content/early/2014/12/05/1420159112    For media enquiries contact: Grant Hill Press Officer University of Dundee Nethergate, Dundee, DD1 4HN TEL: 01382 384768 E-MAIL: g.hill@dundee.ac.uk MOBILE: 07854 953277

» more

Shoppers make Wishing Tree for Dundee Young Carers a huge success

Generous Waterstones customers have helped ensure that more than 100 books will be unwrapped by Dundee Young Carers on Christmas Day. ‘Waterstones Wishing Tree’ is a collaboration between the retailer, Literary Dundee and Dundee City Council's Education Department. It provided a special way for shoppers to gift a book to a young person in Dundee who has a caring role and/or is affected emotionally by a family member’s long-term illness, disability, mental health or addiction problems. The tree was in store at Waterstones Commercial Street branch from Thursday, 20th November until Monday, 15th December, during which time shoppers were encouraged to select a tag from the tree, buy a book and leave it with the staff at Waterstones to be wrapped and delivered for Christmas. Such was the popularity of the Wishing Tree and the generosity of shoppers, the tags had to be replenished several times, ensuring more books for more young carers. Popular titles included Jacqueline Wilson and Roald Dahl and all books have been wrapped and delivered to the Dundee Carers Centre in time for Christmas. Literary Dundee is a University of Dundee-led initiative to promote interest in literature and its team work closely with members of the local community to enhance rates of reading and encourage more people young and old to discover or rediscover the joy of books. The organisation’s Peggy Hughes said, “We’re extremely grateful for such a heart-warming show of support for our inaugural Waterstones Wishing Tree and delighted that over 100 young carers will receive a book this Christmas. Huge, warm thanks to everyone who brought the festive spirit alive, and a Merry Christmas, one and all!” Drew Porch, of Dundee Young Carers, said, “Providing young carers with some quality ‘me’ time is of huge value within the Young Carers Project. Those who have supported the Wishing Tree have given an opportunity for quality time for a number of young carers within Dundee. “The generosity of customers and staff at Waterstones will help young carers cope with their caring situations during this festive season and into the New Year.  The Young Carers Project hopes to build on this opportunity and encourage active readers amongst the children and young people it supports.”  The Young Carers Project supports those aged 8 – 15 years old who provide a caring role for a family member and currently support around 140 young carers. The Upbeet Project supports those aged 16+ who also provide care for a family member or friend and currently support around 50 young adult carers. In addition many young adult carers are looking after their own children. The care role can be provided for a variety of reasons including ill health, disability, mental health or through drug and alcohol use. Support is offered through one to ones and group work and aims to enable young carers and young adult carers to be able to cope with their caring responsibilities by providing emotional support, access to other supports including signposting, welfare rights and importantly peer support. Moira Foster, Education Support Officer at Dundee City Council, said, “The response to the Wishing Tree has been truly overwhelming. People have been so incredibly generous often buying more than one book, or buying additional items like pens to accompany drawing books.  The thoughtfulness and kindness of Waterstones' customers has been incredible and quite moving. Thank You.” More information about the Dundee Young Carers project is available at http://youngcarers.co.uk/.   For media enquiries contact: Grant Hill Press Officer University of Dundee Nethergate, Dundee, DD1 4HN TEL: 01382 384768 E-MAIL: g.hill@dundee.ac.uk MOBILE: 07854 953277

» more

Global Company Donates Equipment to Local College

Global company, Schneider Electric, has donated equipment to City College Plymouth to help train the next generation of plumbing and heating engineers.

Schneider Electric, a multi-national organisation employing over 160,000 people worldwide, were first approached by the College’s former Student President, Joe Correa. He spoke to the Residential Controls business, based at Southway, Plymouth, where the Drayton brand of heating controls are manufactured. Realising the potential of a partnership with the College, the company were keen to give something to support local students.

The donated equipment includes operational controls for central heating and a bespoke training board, developed by the Drayton technical team specifically for the College students. The board can, at the flick of a switch, introduce common faults found in real life situations, allowing students the opportunity to learn and adapt in a safe, simulated environment.

A spokesperson for Schneider Electric said:

“Recognising that the College is a leader in innovative and skills-based vocational education, we are delighted to be able to provide the relevant products so that City College Plymouth is able to train and develop the plumbing and heating engineers of the future.

“City College Plymouth are the perfect choice of organisation to use the Drayton controls and also trial this new equipment with us. Their instructors and students provide the wide range of skill levels needed to appraise this unit. The feedback will be invaluable not only to help inform our product developments but also to create future test rigs tailored for the industry. This sort of insight and collaboration with local colleges is exactly why Schneider Electric got involved and is testament to the success of City College Plymouth.”

Terry Such, the College’s Academy Manager for Plumbing Electrical and Gas, said:

“The Drayton equipment will have a great impact on our students, allowing them to work with a quality manufacturer of heating and water controls. This kind of enhanced-learning experience allows them to take their assessments on industry-standard equipment.”

The equipment will be used for students’ practical assessments, providing top class industry experience in the classroom on the use of high quality control systems.

To find out more about the range of courses on offer at the College or to arrange for a tour of our industry-standard facilities, call 01752 305300, visit www.cityplym.ac.uk, or come to our College Information Evening on Tuesday 6 January from 4.00pm to 7.00pm or College Drop-in Event on Wednesday 14 January from 4.00pm to 6.00pm at Kings Road.

PJEA News: 

No

International News: 

No

» more

FASHION SKILLS CAN GO TO YOUR HEAD

South Staffordshire College Fashion student Megan Brookes age 17 from Tamworth has had her work featured for Tworld photographic studios in Weeford, Lichfield. Megan’s work, a stunning white fascinator, has become the showpiece for the college, and now Tworld Studios has added its professional styling and photography to Megan’s outstanding fashion design and will use the resulting images on its website and other advertising material.  South Staffordshire College will also be highlighting the work with a poster size print prominently displayed at Lichfield Campus.   Hayley Brooks is Course Leader in Fashion & Textiles at the College.  “We’re proud of all the students’ efforts and Megan’s success has capped an enjoyable and fruitful collaboration between our photography and design courses.  It has also enabled us to forge another close relationship with a respected local employer and we look forward to working with Tworld on a regular basis in future.” Following Megan’s successful shoot, a second creative collaboration at the Lichfield Campus of South Staffordshire College saw Fashion and Photography students team up to produce a shoot entitled ‘Winter Wonderland’.  Collaborations between creative industry courses are highly encouraged at the college and the work of students celebrated. For more information about courses within the creative industries, please refer to www.southstaffs.ac.uk.

The post FASHION SKILLS CAN GO TO YOUR HEAD appeared first on South Staffordshire College.

» more

The Human Genetics Historical Library: Collecting for the future

The Human Genetics Historical Library housed in Cardiff University’s Special Collections library (SCOLAR) originated in 2004 as a result of collaboration between an academic geneticist and university library staff.  A leading geneticist in his field, Prof P. Harper recognised the need to start collecting material covering the field of human genetics in order to encapsulate […]

» more

From research to stories: university-museum collaboration in Kent

This paper explores the interdisciplinary methodologies adopted in an AHRC-funded collaborative project (called ‘Inspiring Women’) which aimed to tell the ‘hidden histories’ of women in Tunbridge Wells and surrounding areas in the early years of the twentieth century. Artefacts from the borough museum’s own collections and archives, together with loans from national repositories, were brought […]

» more

Southampton joins world-leading project to transform treatment of cancer and rare diseases

The University of Southampton, in collaboration with University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust (UHS) and hospital partners, has been named one of 11 centres involved in a national genome project set to transform diagnosis and treatment for patients with cancer and rare diseases.

» more

56 students sign up to Save a Life

Furness College students were inspired to help save a life after a presentation given by Vicky Pyne of Alice’s Escapes and the ‘Anthony Nolan Organisation’ supported by Furness College staff and students who had signed up to a previous campaign and become donors themselves. The sessions were part of a joint collaboration with Vicky Pyne […]

» more

New seismic survey technique could save dolphins’ hearing

University of Bath alumnus Jaques Guigné in collaboration with his former PhD supervisor Professor Nick Pace has developed a revolutionary new technology for the seismic imaging of underground geology that could also reduce impact on marine wildlife.

» more

Seismic survey technique could save dolphins’ hearing

University of Bath alumnus Jaques Guigné in collaboration with his former PhD supervisor Professor Nick Pace has developed a revolutionary new technology for the seismic imaging of underground geology that could also reduce impact on marine wildlife.

» more

Shanghai education collaborative links developed by local college

Birmingham Metropolitan College is continuing to build relations with leading educationalists from Shanghai after hosting its second visit in the space of three months for a group of officials.

A group of senior leaders from the Shanghai Minhang Vocational Education Group (Alliance) and school vice principals, whose teachers had participated in a teacher training programme at the college, met the BMet executive team to discuss opportunities for collaboration.

A Memorandum of Understanding was signed by both parties, focusing on teacher training and student exchange, consultation on the modern UK TVET Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) System and the joint development of vocational courses.

Media Options

shanghai-minhang-education-bureau-representatives.jpg

read more

» more

On the seventh day of GridMas

On the seventh day of GridMas, my True Love gave to me… seven blogs a-blogging! There are seven blogs associated with GridPP that provide localised updates, in-depth technical hints and tips, and much, much more from Collaboration members and users. Highlights from this year include: the art of cabling (LondonGrid), notes from the Manchester upgrade [...]

» more

Electronic management of assessment workshop

22 January 2015 Free - booking required etc venues Maple House 150 Corporation Street Birmingham B4 6TB https://www.etcvenues.co.uk/venues/maple-house

We warmly invite you attend a consultation workshop on the electronic management of assessment (EMA) project.

The term EMA is increasingly being used to describe the way that technology can be used to support the management of the assessment and feedback lifecycle, including the electronic submission of assignments, e-marking and e-feedback.

This is the second of two workshops, building on the findings from the first stage of the research, the recently published landscape review that identified a number of challenges facing the sector in relation to EMA , as well as further activity prioritising those challenges.

In our first workshop, the stakeholder community collaborated on the generation of a range of solution ideas in response to those challenges. This second workshop will engage participants in validating and refining those concept areas. These refined ideas will be taken forward to be considered for potential implementation. 

jiscassess Jisc

Draft agenda

1. 10:00

   Arrival and registration

   Time to look at the resources.
2. 10:30

   Welcome and introductions

   Introducing the aims of the EMA project, the consultation process, and what we hope to get out of the day.
3. 10:45

   Discuss emerging concepts
4. 11:00

   Concept validation

   Refine concept areas and validate them with stakeholders.
5. 12:30

   Lunch

   Time to review and reflect on outcomes of the morning. 
6. 13:15

   Concept validation

   Refine concept areas and validate them with stakeholders.   
7. 14:05

   Plenary discussions
8. 14:35

   Voting
9. 14:50

   Close

The workshop will be of interest to those wanting to help shape the scoping of sector-wide solutions to challenges faced with the electronic management of assessment in higher education. Participants should have expertise in EMA , either from a technical, pedagogic or process perspective. Roles may include:

• Senior managers
• Learning technologists
• E-learning managers
• Teaching staff
• Administrative staff
• IT staff
• Assessment system suppliers

If you have any queries about the events, please contact events@jisc.ac.uk.

Free to attend.

To express an interest in attending this event, please contact Lisa Gray at lisa.gray@jisc.ac.uk.

Expenses claims

Jisc will cover the travel and subsistence expenses of members attending meetings, up to the value of £150 on receipt of a completed expenses claim form/invoice and original receipts. Expense claim forms should be used when the expense is incurred directly by an individual. Where expenses are incurred by the members organisation then you will need to invoice us.

If invoicing for payment to an organisation (not an individual) please ensure that the following invoicing address features on the paperwork: 
Jisc
Jisc accounts
Lumen House
Library Avenue
Harwell Oxford
Didcot
Oxfordshire
OX11 0SG

The completed expenses claim form / invoice and original receipts will need to be returned to the organiser for processing of payment:
Co-design support team 
Jisc
One Castlepark
Tower Hill
Bristol
BS2 0JA

We are working in collaboration with the Heads of e-Learning Forum (HeLF) and the Universities and Colleges Information Systems Association (UCISA) to support institutions to maximise the benefits the technology has to offer. 

Listed Event

» more

The Snow Queen

This year’s College Christmas Production of The Snow Queen, saw the Prospect Theatre transformed into an icy land. Student performers wowed audiences over three nights on Wednesday 10th, Thursday 11th and Friday 12th December.

Following the successes of last year's The Dream the collaboration between Production Drama, Musical Theatre and Dance Company presented their interpretation of the Hans Christian Anderson classic in a dark, wintry wonderland with some stunning talent on show.

Director and Senior Curriculum Manager for Drama and Theatre, Matt Sheppard said “The production has been another resounding triumph with so many favourable comments from audience members, this is in no small measure down to the students and incredible team of staff behind the production.

Jennii Luperi, Musical Theatre Director commented “I am immensely proud of the work of all the students. They have surpassed expectations by confidently tackling complex harmonies and have proved their ability to work together as an ensemble.”

Sally Reed, Curriculum Manager Dance and Caitlin McStay, Subject Tutor Dance added “We are both immensely proud of the students’ hard work and achievement in dance, with the wide ranging styles including contemporary, jive and contact. All of the dancers have contributed to the choreographic decisions made in the process and we are both proud of the standard of work produced”.

Katy Bevan, who played Hyacinth in the production commented "The Snow Queen has been really fun and I've so enjoyed being part of the ensemble and the success of the show."

See more pictures of 'The Snow Queen' on our College Instagram.

» more

The Snow Queen

This year’s College Christmas Production of The Snow Queen, saw the Prospect Theatre transformed into an icy land. Student performers wowed audiences over three nights on Wednesday 10th, Thursday 11th and Friday 12th December.

Following the successes of last year's The Dream the collaboration between Production Drama, Musical Theatre and Dance Company presented their interpretation of the Hans Christian Anderson classic in a dark, wintry wonderland with some stunning talent on show.

Director and Senior Curriculum Manager for Drama and Theatre, Matt Sheppard said “The production has been another resounding triumph with so many favourable comments from audience members, this is in no small measure down to the students and incredible team of staff behind the production.

Jennii Luperi, Musical Theatre Director commented “I am immensely proud of the work of all the students. They have surpassed expectations by confidently tackling complex harmonies and have proved their ability to work together as an ensemble.”

Sally Reed, Curriculum Manager Dance and Caitlin McStay, Subject Tutor Dance added “We are both immensely proud of the students’ hard work and achievement in dance, with the wide ranging styles including contemporary, jive and contact. All of the dancers have contributed to the choreographic decisions made in the process and we are both proud of the standard of work produced”.

Katy Bevan, who played Hyacinth in the production commented "The Snow Queen has been really fun and I've so enjoyed being part of the ensemble and the success of the show."

See more pictures of 'The Snow Queen' on our College Instagram.

» more

Senior co-design manager (research data)

Research Data – is the effective management and re-use of research data, and is key to increasing the effectiveness, efficiency and quality of research undertaken within UK universities. Working as part of a team, this role will oversee some of our activities in the research data area, including planning new projects and services to help universities improve how research data is managed, maintained, discovered and-used.

This roles requires the successful candidate to use the principles of co-design to specify, analyse, deliver and drive innovation for Higher Education in close collaboration with our customers, relevant experts and representative bodies. Additionally, this role will provide specialist advice on how developments and trends in technology in their particular area (in this case research data) can be translated into new products and services that Jisc will deliver to support our customers.

We need someone with a range of skills including:

• A good degree and/or relevant professional qualification
• Project and programme management skills 
• A strong background in the research data sector
• The ability to plan and monitor project budgets, as well as delivering projects on time
• Deep understanding and experience of eliciting customer needs
• Experience in designing and delivering programmes of work
• Excellent oral, written communication and inter-personal skills to engage with the HE sector and bodies such as the research councils
• The ability to act and work independently and as an effective and enthusiastic team member

Download full job description (pdf)

Download application form (Word docx)

and diversity monitoring questionnaire (Word docx). 

Read the guidance notes for applicants (pdf).

Benefits

These include:

• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays
• employee assistance programme
• generous contributory pension scheme (USS)
• cycle to work scheme
• season ticket loans
• childcare voucher scheme

Location

Jisc has offices in various locations - this role can be based in Bristol or London. Jisc is a geographically distributed organisation and travel to other locations may be required. 

Closing date

The closing date for applications is Friday 2 January at 12:00 noon.

How to apply

If you are interested in applying please complete the application form and return it to our HR team recruitment@jisc.ac.uk CVs will not be accepted without a completed application form.

Please note that any appointment made is subject to receipt of satisfactory references.

No agencies please.

If you have any questions about the application process please email recruitment@jisc.ac.uk or call the HR team directly on 0203 697 5854.

Closing date 2 January 2015

Salary range from £40,847

Contract Contract

Contract Full-time fixed term for two years

» more

Piece Makers (The Fusilier Museum)

The Fusilier Museum, Bury

14 January 2015 - 27 June 2015

This thought-provoking exhibition displays the artistic results of 'Piece Makers', a two-year collaboration between the National Army Museum, soldiers drawn from rehabilitation and support centres, and contemporary artist Susan Stockwell.

read more

» more

Piece Makers (KOSB Regimental Museum)

KOSB Regimental Museum, Berwick-upon-Tweed

6 July 2015 - 28 September 2015

This thought-provoking exhibition displays the artistic results of 'Piece Makers', a two-year collaboration between the National Army Museum, soldiers drawn from rehabilitation and support centres, and contemporary artist Susan Stockwell.

read more

» more

Efficient sharing of university data is closer than you think

Open data is enabling higher education institutions to discover and make the most of opportunities to collaborate, share equipment and expertise. Adrian Cox, project manager at equipment.data, writes about how how this kind of collaboration is helping to achieve efficiencies.

The post Efficient sharing of university data is closer than you think appeared first on Efficiency Exchange.

» more

Growth Dashboard Workshops.

The Enterprise Research Centre (ERC)  in collaboration with GrowthAccelerator conducted a series of One day Workshops around the UK. LEP’s from all  Local Areas were invited  for discussion on the Growth Dashboard and its findings. The aim of the Workshops were to ensure that our  future work delivers some of what  LEP colleagues said they would find […]

The post Growth Dashboard Workshops. appeared first on Enterprise Research Centre.

» more

A new route to innovation – by Dr Matt Reed

Senior Research Fellow, Dr Matthew Reed, recently wrote a blog piece about the importance of innovation for The Growth Hub. The Growth Hub is a collaboration between GFirst and the University of Gloucestershire, who have come together to create a innovative way of supporting new and existing businesses to maximise their potential. The blog is replicated below: […]

» more

Putting the brakes on cancer

A study led by the University of Dundee, in collaboration with the University of Bath, has uncovered an important role played by a tumour suppressor gene, helping scientists to better understand how it combats the effects of mutations which drive cancer development. The research, published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) USA, shows how an enzyme called Dual-specificity phosphatase 5 (DUSP5)  supresses tumour formation by 'switching off' another enzyme called ERK, which is involved in driving cell proliferation and survival. The abnormal cell growth seen in cancers is often caused by mutations in so-called ‘oncogenes’. One of the most important of these is called ‘Ras’ and once mutated and activated, it can send powerful signals through ERK to drive tumour formation. The new study shows that DUSP5, by ‘switching off’ ERK, can act as a tumour suppressor and put the brakes on cancer development. The University of Dundee’s Professor Stephen Keyse, head of the Cancer Research UK Stress Response Laboratory at Ninewells Hospital, explained, “We know quite a lot about the way cancer-causing genes get switched on and drive the abnormal growth seen in tumours, but far less about the ways that our cells can react to this and try and suppress the dangerous signals that oncogenes propagate. “Our work reveals that DUSP5 has an important role in protecting cells against the cancer causing effects of Ras mutations. It does this by switching off ERK in the cell nucleus and preventing the expression of other genes, which act to change cellular behaviour and promote tumour growth”    Dr Jim Caunt, Lecturer in Biology & Biochemistry at the University of Bath, said, “This study shows that DUSP5 has a protective effect in cancer using a model that replicates a number of features akin to human tumour development - when DUSP5 function is lost, exposure to certain cancer-promoting agents results in many more tumours.” Moving forward, this work will form the basis of future studies of DUSP5 and help determine whether it can also suppress Ras-induced tumours in lung, pancreas and intestine, all common sites of human cancer. “It will also be vital to study the expression of DUSP5 in human tumours to see if its expression is lost as part of the mechanism by which tumours progress,” added Professor Keyse. “Overall, the more we know about the ‘wiring’ of cancer cells and can unravel the complex interactions that occur in the way that cancer causing signals are processed, the better placed we will be to try and design new interventions and treatments.” The paper is available to read here: http://www.pnas.org/content/early/2014/12/05/1420159112    For media enquiries contact: Grant Hill Press Officer University of Dundee Nethergate, Dundee, DD1 4HN TEL: 01382 384768 E-MAIL: g.hill@dundee.ac.uk MOBILE: 07854 953277

» more

Shoppers make Wishing Tree for Dundee Young Carers a huge success

Generous Waterstones customers have helped ensure that more than 100 books will be unwrapped by Dundee Young Carers on Christmas Day. ‘Waterstones Wishing Tree’ is a collaboration between the retailer, Literary Dundee and Dundee City Council's Education Department. It provided a special way for shoppers to gift a book to a young person in Dundee who has a caring role and/or is affected emotionally by a family member’s long-term illness, disability, mental health or addiction problems. The tree was in store at Waterstones Commercial Street branch from Thursday, 20th November until Monday, 15th December, during which time shoppers were encouraged to select a tag from the tree, buy a book and leave it with the staff at Waterstones to be wrapped and delivered for Christmas. Such was the popularity of the Wishing Tree and the generosity of shoppers, the tags had to be replenished several times, ensuring more books for more young carers. Popular titles included Jacqueline Wilson and Roald Dahl and all books have been wrapped and delivered to the Dundee Carers Centre in time for Christmas. Literary Dundee is a University of Dundee-led initiative to promote interest in literature and its team work closely with members of the local community to enhance rates of reading and encourage more people young and old to discover or rediscover the joy of books. The organisation’s Peggy Hughes said, “We’re extremely grateful for such a heart-warming show of support for our inaugural Waterstones Wishing Tree and delighted that over 100 young carers will receive a book this Christmas. Huge, warm thanks to everyone who brought the festive spirit alive, and a Merry Christmas, one and all!” Drew Porch, of Dundee Young Carers, said, “Providing young carers with some quality ‘me’ time is of huge value within the Young Carers Project. Those who have supported the Wishing Tree have given an opportunity for quality time for a number of young carers within Dundee. “The generosity of customers and staff at Waterstones will help young carers cope with their caring situations during this festive season and into the New Year.  The Young Carers Project hopes to build on this opportunity and encourage active readers amongst the children and young people it supports.”  The Young Carers Project supports those aged 8 – 15 years old who provide a caring role for a family member and currently support around 140 young carers. The Upbeet Project supports those aged 16+ who also provide care for a family member or friend and currently support around 50 young adult carers. In addition many young adult carers are looking after their own children. The care role can be provided for a variety of reasons including ill health, disability, mental health or through drug and alcohol use. Support is offered through one to ones and group work and aims to enable young carers and young adult carers to be able to cope with their caring responsibilities by providing emotional support, access to other supports including signposting, welfare rights and importantly peer support. Moira Foster, Education Support Officer at Dundee City Council, said, “The response to the Wishing Tree has been truly overwhelming. People have been so incredibly generous often buying more than one book, or buying additional items like pens to accompany drawing books.  The thoughtfulness and kindness of Waterstones' customers has been incredible and quite moving. Thank You.” More information about the Dundee Young Carers project is available at http://youngcarers.co.uk/.   For media enquiries contact: Grant Hill Press Officer University of Dundee Nethergate, Dundee, DD1 4HN TEL: 01382 384768 E-MAIL: g.hill@dundee.ac.uk MOBILE: 07854 953277

» more

Global Company Donates Equipment to Local College

Global company, Schneider Electric, has donated equipment to City College Plymouth to help train the next generation of plumbing and heating engineers.

Schneider Electric, a multi-national organisation employing over 160,000 people worldwide, were first approached by the College’s former Student President, Joe Correa. He spoke to the Residential Controls business, based at Southway, Plymouth, where the Drayton brand of heating controls are manufactured. Realising the potential of a partnership with the College, the company were keen to give something to support local students.

The donated equipment includes operational controls for central heating and a bespoke training board, developed by the Drayton technical team specifically for the College students. The board can, at the flick of a switch, introduce common faults found in real life situations, allowing students the opportunity to learn and adapt in a safe, simulated environment.

A spokesperson for Schneider Electric said:

“Recognising that the College is a leader in innovative and skills-based vocational education, we are delighted to be able to provide the relevant products so that City College Plymouth is able to train and develop the plumbing and heating engineers of the future.

“City College Plymouth are the perfect choice of organisation to use the Drayton controls and also trial this new equipment with us. Their instructors and students provide the wide range of skill levels needed to appraise this unit. The feedback will be invaluable not only to help inform our product developments but also to create future test rigs tailored for the industry. This sort of insight and collaboration with local colleges is exactly why Schneider Electric got involved and is testament to the success of City College Plymouth.”

Terry Such, the College’s Academy Manager for Plumbing Electrical and Gas, said:

“The Drayton equipment will have a great impact on our students, allowing them to work with a quality manufacturer of heating and water controls. This kind of enhanced-learning experience allows them to take their assessments on industry-standard equipment.”

The equipment will be used for students’ practical assessments, providing top class industry experience in the classroom on the use of high quality control systems.

To find out more about the range of courses on offer at the College or to arrange for a tour of our industry-standard facilities, call 01752 305300, visit www.cityplym.ac.uk, or come to our College Information Evening on Tuesday 6 January from 4.00pm to 7.00pm or College Drop-in Event on Wednesday 14 January from 4.00pm to 6.00pm at Kings Road.

PJEA News: 

No

International News: 

No

» more

FASHION SKILLS CAN GO TO YOUR HEAD

South Staffordshire College Fashion student Megan Brookes age 17 from Tamworth has had her work featured for Tworld photographic studios in Weeford, Lichfield. Megan’s work, a stunning white fascinator, has become the showpiece for the college, and now Tworld Studios has added its professional styling and photography to Megan’s outstanding fashion design and will use the resulting images on its website and other advertising material.  South Staffordshire College will also be highlighting the work with a poster size print prominently displayed at Lichfield Campus.   Hayley Brooks is Course Leader in Fashion & Textiles at the College.  “We’re proud of all the students’ efforts and Megan’s success has capped an enjoyable and fruitful collaboration between our photography and design courses.  It has also enabled us to forge another close relationship with a respected local employer and we look forward to working with Tworld on a regular basis in future.” Following Megan’s successful shoot, a second creative collaboration at the Lichfield Campus of South Staffordshire College saw Fashion and Photography students team up to produce a shoot entitled ‘Winter Wonderland’.  Collaborations between creative industry courses are highly encouraged at the college and the work of students celebrated. For more information about courses within the creative industries, please refer to www.southstaffs.ac.uk.

The post FASHION SKILLS CAN GO TO YOUR HEAD appeared first on South Staffordshire College.

» more

The Human Genetics Historical Library: Collecting for the future

The Human Genetics Historical Library housed in Cardiff University’s Special Collections library (SCOLAR) originated in 2004 as a result of collaboration between an academic geneticist and university library staff.  A leading geneticist in his field, Prof P. Harper recognised the need to start collecting material covering the field of human genetics in order to encapsulate […]

» more

From research to stories: university-museum collaboration in Kent

This paper explores the interdisciplinary methodologies adopted in an AHRC-funded collaborative project (called ‘Inspiring Women’) which aimed to tell the ‘hidden histories’ of women in Tunbridge Wells and surrounding areas in the early years of the twentieth century. Artefacts from the borough museum’s own collections and archives, together with loans from national repositories, were brought […]

» more

Southampton joins world-leading project to transform treatment of cancer and rare diseases

The University of Southampton, in collaboration with University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust (UHS) and hospital partners, has been named one of 11 centres involved in a national genome project set to transform diagnosis and treatment for patients with cancer and rare diseases.

» more

56 students sign up to Save a Life

Furness College students were inspired to help save a life after a presentation given by Vicky Pyne of Alice’s Escapes and the ‘Anthony Nolan Organisation’ supported by Furness College staff and students who had signed up to a previous campaign and become donors themselves. The sessions were part of a joint collaboration with Vicky Pyne […]

» more

New seismic survey technique could save dolphins’ hearing

University of Bath alumnus Jaques Guigné in collaboration with his former PhD supervisor Professor Nick Pace has developed a revolutionary new technology for the seismic imaging of underground geology that could also reduce impact on marine wildlife.

» more

Seismic survey technique could save dolphins’ hearing

University of Bath alumnus Jaques Guigné in collaboration with his former PhD supervisor Professor Nick Pace has developed a revolutionary new technology for the seismic imaging of underground geology that could also reduce impact on marine wildlife.

» more

Shanghai education collaborative links developed by local college

Birmingham Metropolitan College is continuing to build relations with leading educationalists from Shanghai after hosting its second visit in the space of three months for a group of officials.

A group of senior leaders from the Shanghai Minhang Vocational Education Group (Alliance) and school vice principals, whose teachers had participated in a teacher training programme at the college, met the BMet executive team to discuss opportunities for collaboration.

A Memorandum of Understanding was signed by both parties, focusing on teacher training and student exchange, consultation on the modern UK TVET Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) System and the joint development of vocational courses.

Media Options

shanghai-minhang-education-bureau-representatives.jpg

read more

» more

Electronic management of assessment workshop

22 January 2015 Free - booking required etc venues Maple House 150 Corporation Street Birmingham B4 6TB https://www.etcvenues.co.uk/venues/maple-house

We warmly invite you attend a consultation workshop on the electronic management of assessment (EMA) project.

The term EMA is increasingly being used to describe the way that technology can be used to support the management of the assessment and feedback lifecycle, including the electronic submission of assignments, e-marking and e-feedback.

This is the second of two workshops, building on the findings from the first stage of the research, the recently published landscape review that identified a number of challenges facing the sector in relation to EMA , as well as further activity prioritising those challenges.

In our first workshop, the stakeholder community collaborated on the generation of a range of solution ideas in response to those challenges. This second workshop will engage participants in validating and refining those concept areas. These refined ideas will be taken forward to be considered for potential implementation. 

jiscassess Jisc

Draft agenda

1. 10:00

   Arrival and registration

   Time to look at the resources.
2. 10:30

   Welcome and introductions

   Introducing the aims of the EMA project, the consultation process, and what we hope to get out of the day.
3. 10:45

   Discuss emerging concepts
4. 11:00

   Concept validation

   Refine concept areas and validate them with stakeholders.
5. 12:30

   Lunch

   Time to review and reflect on outcomes of the morning. 
6. 13:15

   Concept validation

   Refine concept areas and validate them with stakeholders.   
7. 14:05

   Plenary discussions
8. 14:35

   Voting
9. 14:50

   Close

The workshop will be of interest to those wanting to help shape the scoping of sector-wide solutions to challenges faced with the electronic management of assessment in higher education. Participants should have expertise in EMA , either from a technical, pedagogic or process perspective. Roles may include:

• Senior managers
• Learning technologists
• E-learning managers
• Teaching staff
• Administrative staff
• IT staff
• Assessment system suppliers

If you have any queries about the events, please contact events@jisc.ac.uk.

Free to attend.

To express an interest in attending this event, please contact Lisa Gray at lisa.gray@jisc.ac.uk.

Expenses claims

Jisc will cover the travel and subsistence expenses of members attending meetings, up to the value of £150 on receipt of a completed expenses claim form/invoice and original receipts. Expense claim forms should be used when the expense is incurred directly by an individual. Where expenses are incurred by the members organisation then you will need to invoice us.

If invoicing for payment to an organisation (not an individual) please ensure that the following invoicing address features on the paperwork: 
Jisc
Jisc accounts
Lumen House
Library Avenue
Harwell Oxford
Didcot
Oxfordshire
OX11 0SG

The completed expenses claim form / invoice and original receipts will need to be returned to the organiser for processing of payment:
Co-design support team 
Jisc
One Castlepark
Tower Hill
Bristol
BS2 0JA

We are working in collaboration with the Heads of e-Learning Forum (HeLF) and the Universities and Colleges Information Systems Association (UCISA) to support institutions to maximise the benefits the technology has to offer. 

Listed Event

» more

The Snow Queen

This year’s College Christmas Production of The Snow Queen, saw the Prospect Theatre transformed into an icy land. Student performers wowed audiences over three nights on Wednesday 10th, Thursday 11th and Friday 12th December.

Following the successes of last year's The Dream the collaboration between Production Drama, Musical Theatre and Dance Company presented their interpretation of the Hans Christian Anderson classic in a dark, wintry wonderland with some stunning talent on show.

Director and Senior Curriculum Manager for Drama and Theatre, Matt Sheppard said “The production has been another resounding triumph with so many favourable comments from audience members, this is in no small measure down to the students and incredible team of staff behind the production.

Jennii Luperi, Musical Theatre Director commented “I am immensely proud of the work of all the students. They have surpassed expectations by confidently tackling complex harmonies and have proved their ability to work together as an ensemble.”

Sally Reed, Curriculum Manager Dance and Caitlin McStay, Subject Tutor Dance added “We are both immensely proud of the students’ hard work and achievement in dance, with the wide ranging styles including contemporary, jive and contact. All of the dancers have contributed to the choreographic decisions made in the process and we are both proud of the standard of work produced”.

Katy Bevan, who played Hyacinth in the production commented "The Snow Queen has been really fun and I've so enjoyed being part of the ensemble and the success of the show."

See more pictures of 'The Snow Queen' on our College Instagram.

» more

The Snow Queen

This year’s College Christmas Production of The Snow Queen, saw the Prospect Theatre transformed into an icy land. Student performers wowed audiences over three nights on Wednesday 10th, Thursday 11th and Friday 12th December.

Following the successes of last year's The Dream the collaboration between Production Drama, Musical Theatre and Dance Company presented their interpretation of the Hans Christian Anderson classic in a dark, wintry wonderland with some stunning talent on show.

Director and Senior Curriculum Manager for Drama and Theatre, Matt Sheppard said “The production has been another resounding triumph with so many favourable comments from audience members, this is in no small measure down to the students and incredible team of staff behind the production.

Jennii Luperi, Musical Theatre Director commented “I am immensely proud of the work of all the students. They have surpassed expectations by confidently tackling complex harmonies and have proved their ability to work together as an ensemble.”

Sally Reed, Curriculum Manager Dance and Caitlin McStay, Subject Tutor Dance added “We are both immensely proud of the students’ hard work and achievement in dance, with the wide ranging styles including contemporary, jive and contact. All of the dancers have contributed to the choreographic decisions made in the process and we are both proud of the standard of work produced”.

Katy Bevan, who played Hyacinth in the production commented "The Snow Queen has been really fun and I've so enjoyed being part of the ensemble and the success of the show."

See more pictures of 'The Snow Queen' on our College Instagram.

» more

Senior co-design manager (research data)

Research Data – is the effective management and re-use of research data, and is key to increasing the effectiveness, efficiency and quality of research undertaken within UK universities. Working as part of a team, this role will oversee some of our activities in the research data area, including planning new projects and services to help universities improve how research data is managed, maintained, discovered and-used.

This roles requires the successful candidate to use the principles of co-design to specify, analyse, deliver and drive innovation for Higher Education in close collaboration with our customers, relevant experts and representative bodies. Additionally, this role will provide specialist advice on how developments and trends in technology in their particular area (in this case research data) can be translated into new products and services that Jisc will deliver to support our customers.

We need someone with a range of skills including:

• A good degree and/or relevant professional qualification
• Project and programme management skills 
• A strong background in the research data sector
• The ability to plan and monitor project budgets, as well as delivering projects on time
• Deep understanding and experience of eliciting customer needs
• Experience in designing and delivering programmes of work
• Excellent oral, written communication and inter-personal skills to engage with the HE sector and bodies such as the research councils
• The ability to act and work independently and as an effective and enthusiastic team member

Download full job description (pdf)

Download application form (Word docx)

and diversity monitoring questionnaire (Word docx). 

Read the guidance notes for applicants (pdf).

Benefits

These include:

• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays
• employee assistance programme
• generous contributory pension scheme (USS)
• cycle to work scheme
• season ticket loans
• childcare voucher scheme

Location

Jisc has offices in various locations - this role can be based in Bristol or London. Jisc is a geographically distributed organisation and travel to other locations may be required. 

Closing date

The closing date for applications is Friday 2 January at 12:00 noon.

How to apply

If you are interested in applying please complete the application form and return it to our HR team recruitment@jisc.ac.uk CVs will not be accepted without a completed application form.

Please note that any appointment made is subject to receipt of satisfactory references.

No agencies please.

If you have any questions about the application process please email recruitment@jisc.ac.uk or call the HR team directly on 0203 697 5854.

Closing date 2 January 2015

Salary range from £40,847

Contract Contract

Contract Full-time fixed term for two years

» more

Piece Makers (The Fusilier Museum)

The Fusilier Museum, Bury

14 January 2015 - 27 June 2015

This thought-provoking exhibition displays the artistic results of 'Piece Makers', a two-year collaboration between the National Army Museum, soldiers drawn from rehabilitation and support centres, and contemporary artist Susan Stockwell.

read more

» more

FASHION SKILLS CAN GO TO YOUR HEAD

South Staffordshire College Fashion student Megan Brookes age 17 from Tamworth has had her work featured for Tworld photographic studios in Weeford, Lichfield. Megan’s work, a stunning white fascinator, has become the showpiece for the college, and now Tworld Studios has added its professional styling and photography to Megan’s outstanding fashion design and will use the resulting images on its website and other advertising material.  South Staffordshire College will also be highlighting the work with a poster size print prominently displayed at Lichfield Campus.   Hayley Brooks is Course Leader in Fashion & Textiles at the College.  “We’re proud of all the students’ efforts and Megan’s success has capped an enjoyable and fruitful collaboration between our photography and design courses.  It has also enabled us to forge another close relationship with a respected local employer and we look forward to working with Tworld on a regular basis in future.” Following Megan’s successful shoot, a second creative collaboration at the Lichfield Campus of South Staffordshire College saw Fashion and Photography students team up to produce a shoot entitled ‘Winter Wonderland’.  Collaborations between creative industry courses are highly encouraged at the college and the work of students celebrated. For more information about courses within the creative industries, please refer to www.southstaffs.ac.uk.

The post FASHION SKILLS CAN GO TO YOUR HEAD appeared first on South Staffordshire College.

» more

Piece Makers (KOSB Regimental Museum)

KOSB Regimental Museum, Berwick-upon-Tweed

6 July 2015 - 28 September 2015

This thought-provoking exhibition displays the artistic results of 'Piece Makers', a two-year collaboration between the National Army Museum, soldiers drawn from rehabilitation and support centres, and contemporary artist Susan Stockwell.

read more

» more

Efficient sharing of university data is closer than you think

Open data is enabling higher education institutions to discover and make the most of opportunities to collaborate, share equipment and expertise. Adrian Cox, project manager at equipment.data, writes about how how this kind of collaboration is helping to achieve efficiencies.

The post Efficient sharing of university data is closer than you think appeared first on Efficiency Exchange.

» more

Growth Dashboard Workshops.

The Enterprise Research Centre (ERC)  in collaboration with GrowthAccelerator conducted a series of One day Workshops around the UK. LEP’s from all  Local Areas were invited  for discussion on the Growth Dashboard and its findings. The aim of the Workshops were to ensure that our  future work delivers some of what  LEP colleagues said they would find […]

The post Growth Dashboard Workshops. appeared first on Enterprise Research Centre.

» more

A new route to innovation – by Dr Matt Reed

Senior Research Fellow, Dr Matthew Reed, recently wrote a blog piece about the importance of innovation for The Growth Hub. The Growth Hub is a collaboration between GFirst and the University of Gloucestershire, who have come together to create a innovative way of supporting new and existing businesses to maximise their potential. The blog is replicated below: […]

» more

Putting the brakes on cancer

A study led by the University of Dundee, in collaboration with the University of Bath, has uncovered an important role played by a tumour suppressor gene, helping scientists to better understand how it combats the effects of mutations which drive cancer development. The research, published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) USA, shows how an enzyme called Dual-specificity phosphatase 5 (DUSP5)  supresses tumour formation by 'switching off' another enzyme called ERK, which is involved in driving cell proliferation and survival. The abnormal cell growth seen in cancers is often caused by mutations in so-called ‘oncogenes’. One of the most important of these is called ‘Ras’ and once mutated and activated, it can send powerful signals through ERK to drive tumour formation. The new study shows that DUSP5, by ‘switching off’ ERK, can act as a tumour suppressor and put the brakes on cancer development. The University of Dundee’s Professor Stephen Keyse, head of the Cancer Research UK Stress Response Laboratory at Ninewells Hospital, explained, “We know quite a lot about the way cancer-causing genes get switched on and drive the abnormal growth seen in tumours, but far less about the ways that our cells can react to this and try and suppress the dangerous signals that oncogenes propagate. “Our work reveals that DUSP5 has an important role in protecting cells against the cancer causing effects of Ras mutations. It does this by switching off ERK in the cell nucleus and preventing the expression of other genes, which act to change cellular behaviour and promote tumour growth”    Dr Jim Caunt, Lecturer in Biology & Biochemistry at the University of Bath, said, “This study shows that DUSP5 has a protective effect in cancer using a model that replicates a number of features akin to human tumour development - when DUSP5 function is lost, exposure to certain cancer-promoting agents results in many more tumours.” Moving forward, this work will form the basis of future studies of DUSP5 and help determine whether it can also suppress Ras-induced tumours in lung, pancreas and intestine, all common sites of human cancer. “It will also be vital to study the expression of DUSP5 in human tumours to see if its expression is lost as part of the mechanism by which tumours progress,” added Professor Keyse. “Overall, the more we know about the ‘wiring’ of cancer cells and can unravel the complex interactions that occur in the way that cancer causing signals are processed, the better placed we will be to try and design new interventions and treatments.” The paper is available to read here: http://www.pnas.org/content/early/2014/12/05/1420159112    For media enquiries contact: Grant Hill Press Officer University of Dundee Nethergate, Dundee, DD1 4HN TEL: 01382 384768 E-MAIL: g.hill@dundee.ac.uk MOBILE: 07854 953277

» more

Shoppers make Wishing Tree for Dundee Young Carers a huge success

Generous Waterstones customers have helped ensure that more than 100 books will be unwrapped by Dundee Young Carers on Christmas Day. ‘Waterstones Wishing Tree’ is a collaboration between the retailer, Literary Dundee and Dundee City Council's Education Department. It provided a special way for shoppers to gift a book to a young person in Dundee who has a caring role and/or is affected emotionally by a family member’s long-term illness, disability, mental health or addiction problems. The tree was in store at Waterstones Commercial Street branch from Thursday, 20th November until Monday, 15th December, during which time shoppers were encouraged to select a tag from the tree, buy a book and leave it with the staff at Waterstones to be wrapped and delivered for Christmas. Such was the popularity of the Wishing Tree and the generosity of shoppers, the tags had to be replenished several times, ensuring more books for more young carers. Popular titles included Jacqueline Wilson and Roald Dahl and all books have been wrapped and delivered to the Dundee Carers Centre in time for Christmas. Literary Dundee is a University of Dundee-led initiative to promote interest in literature and its team work closely with members of the local community to enhance rates of reading and encourage more people young and old to discover or rediscover the joy of books. The organisation’s Peggy Hughes said, “We’re extremely grateful for such a heart-warming show of support for our inaugural Waterstones Wishing Tree and delighted that over 100 young carers will receive a book this Christmas. Huge, warm thanks to everyone who brought the festive spirit alive, and a Merry Christmas, one and all!” Drew Porch, of Dundee Young Carers, said, “Providing young carers with some quality ‘me’ time is of huge value within the Young Carers Project. Those who have supported the Wishing Tree have given an opportunity for quality time for a number of young carers within Dundee. “The generosity of customers and staff at Waterstones will help young carers cope with their caring situations during this festive season and into the New Year.  The Young Carers Project hopes to build on this opportunity and encourage active readers amongst the children and young people it supports.”  The Young Carers Project supports those aged 8 – 15 years old who provide a caring role for a family member and currently support around 140 young carers. The Upbeet Project supports those aged 16+ who also provide care for a family member or friend and currently support around 50 young adult carers. In addition many young adult carers are looking after their own children. The care role can be provided for a variety of reasons including ill health, disability, mental health or through drug and alcohol use. Support is offered through one to ones and group work and aims to enable young carers and young adult carers to be able to cope with their caring responsibilities by providing emotional support, access to other supports including signposting, welfare rights and importantly peer support. Moira Foster, Education Support Officer at Dundee City Council, said, “The response to the Wishing Tree has been truly overwhelming. People have been so incredibly generous often buying more than one book, or buying additional items like pens to accompany drawing books.  The thoughtfulness and kindness of Waterstones' customers has been incredible and quite moving. Thank You.” More information about the Dundee Young Carers project is available at http://youngcarers.co.uk/.   For media enquiries contact: Grant Hill Press Officer University of Dundee Nethergate, Dundee, DD1 4HN TEL: 01382 384768 E-MAIL: g.hill@dundee.ac.uk MOBILE: 07854 953277

» more

Global Company Donates Equipment to Local College

Global company, Schneider Electric, has donated equipment to City College Plymouth to help train the next generation of plumbing and heating engineers.

Schneider Electric, a multi-national organisation employing over 160,000 people worldwide, were first approached by the College’s former Student President, Joe Correa. He spoke to the Residential Controls business, based at Southway, Plymouth, where the Drayton brand of heating controls are manufactured. Realising the potential of a partnership with the College, the company were keen to give something to support local students.

The donated equipment includes operational controls for central heating and a bespoke training board, developed by the Drayton technical team specifically for the College students. The board can, at the flick of a switch, introduce common faults found in real life situations, allowing students the opportunity to learn and adapt in a safe, simulated environment.

A spokesperson for Schneider Electric said:

“Recognising that the College is a leader in innovative and skills-based vocational education, we are delighted to be able to provide the relevant products so that City College Plymouth is able to train and develop the plumbing and heating engineers of the future.

“City College Plymouth are the perfect choice of organisation to use the Drayton controls and also trial this new equipment with us. Their instructors and students provide the wide range of skill levels needed to appraise this unit. The feedback will be invaluable not only to help inform our product developments but also to create future test rigs tailored for the industry. This sort of insight and collaboration with local colleges is exactly why Schneider Electric got involved and is testament to the success of City College Plymouth.”

Terry Such, the College’s Academy Manager for Plumbing Electrical and Gas, said:

“The Drayton equipment will have a great impact on our students, allowing them to work with a quality manufacturer of heating and water controls. This kind of enhanced-learning experience allows them to take their assessments on industry-standard equipment.”

The equipment will be used for students’ practical assessments, providing top class industry experience in the classroom on the use of high quality control systems.

To find out more about the range of courses on offer at the College or to arrange for a tour of our industry-standard facilities, call 01752 305300, visit www.cityplym.ac.uk, or come to our College Information Evening on Tuesday 6 January from 4.00pm to 7.00pm or College Drop-in Event on Wednesday 14 January from 4.00pm to 6.00pm at Kings Road.

PJEA News: 

No

International News: 

No

» more