News archive

November 2014

University of Exeter appoints new Chief Operating Officer

Geoff Pringle has been appointed at Chief Operating Officer for the University of Exeter.

Study reveals startling decline in European birds

Bird populations across Europe have experienced sharp declines over the past 30 years, with the majority of losses from the most common species, say researchers from the University of Exeter.

Creatively exploring mental health

A workshop to increase awareness of alternative approaches to treating mental illness and fostering wellbeing is being held at St Stephen’s Church, High Street Exeter on Friday 7 November. 

Students secure gold at international synthetic biology competition

A team of Exeter students are celebrating after winning gold at a prestigious worldwide synthetic biology competition.

New laws threaten Brazil's unique ecosystems

Brazil's globally significant ecosystems could be exposed to mining and dams if proposals currently being debated by the Brazilian Congress go ahead, according to research co-authored by an Exeter academic published today in the journal Science.  

Cornwall House redevelopment scoops prestigious Green Gown award

Exeter has won a prestigious Green Gown award for its ambitious, sustainable redevelopment of a multi-functional student building.

New research examines shellfish consumption

A pioneering Cornish research partnership is providing invaluable information to the UK’s shellfish industry by improving understanding of what seafood people choose to eat and why.

Brain’s response to threat silenced when we are reminded of being loved and cared for

Being shown pictures of others being loved and cared for reduces the brain’s response to threat, new research from the University of Exeter has found.

What it means to be human: a festival of ideas in Cornwall

The Cornish landscapes and sea provide inspiration for a festival using the arts to explore the way people live and relate to in their local environments and communities. 

Scoring system masks variation between GPs’ communication skills

A large-scale study has revealed that the system of aggregating practice scores on GPs’ communication skills may mask variation between individual doctors in lower-scoring centres.

Scientists urge public to take part in third wave of health survey

Scientists in Cornwall are renewing an appeal for people to take part in research that will shed light on the health effects of marine pollution.

Exeter scoops award for best international student satisfaction

The University of Exeter has been named the best university in the UK for international student satisfaction.

Not just child’s play – study provides benchmark for identifying those at risk

Boys perform better than girls in speed, limb strength and cardiorespiratory fitness, whilst girls have the edge in balance and flexibility, according to a landmark study of European children.

University of Exeter research contributes to establishment of first Marine Protected Area Network in Central Africa

Government of Gabon announces the decision to create a New Marine Protected Area Network  - covering about 23 percent of Gabon's territorial waters and EEZ (Exclusive Economic Zone)

Student achievements celebrated at Medical School awards

Student excellence at the University of Exeter Medical School has been recognised in an awards ceremony.

Exeter researchers go to town with badgers and meerkats

A team of researchers from the University of Exeter will be heading to London on Friday to showcase their research on badgers and meerkats as part in the Great British Bioscience Festival. 

Vice-Chancellor joins Minister’s delegation to India

Professor Sir Steve Smith touched down in India this week as part of a delegation led by Rt Hon Greg Clark MP, Minister for Universities and Science, to attend the India-UK Science Innovation Council meeting and the UK-India Bilateral Education Forum.

New research suggests shape of our spines is key to lifting correctly

New research shows that the age-old mantra of 'bend your knees and keep your back straight’ when lifting may not work for everyone.

Exeter researcher contributes to government report on managing the risk of innovative technologies

The first ever Annual Report by the Government Chief Scientific Adviser, Sir Mark Walport will be launched at the Institute for Government in London on 19 November 2014.

Two University sports coaches selected for the UK Sport Aspire Coaching Programme

Two talented sports coaches at the University of Exeter have been selected for a programme to support the creation of high quality coaching to achieve ambitious targets in the Rio Olympics

CSM students enjoy success at international mining competition

Students from the Camborne School of Mines are celebrating their success at an internationally-celebrated mining competition.

Reports identify areas where wildlife can survive in a changing climate

The University of Exeter has worked with Natural England on a project that helps to target conservation action.

RSPB report to MPs on recent flooding

An Exeter Geographer has contributed to an RSPB agenda-setting document, recently launched in Parliament.

Study reveals significantly increased risk of stillbirth in males

A large-scale study led by the University of Exeter has found that boys are more likely to be stillborn than girls.

Exeter researcher wins prestigious Philip Leverhulme Prize in Biological Sciences

A Biosciences researcher at the University of Exeter is one of only five UK bioscientists to be awarded £100,000 from the Leverhulme Trust.

New report highlights 'significant and increasing' risks from extreme weather

University of Exeter researchers have played a crucial role in creating a comprehensive new report indicating that the global risk from extreme weather is set to intensify.

Exeter students unlock potential of microcontroller for national competition

Students from the University of Exeter have created a revolutionary security door locking system as part of their entry for a prestigious national competition.

Excellence in Exeter awards evening celebrates young people's achievements

Polar explorer and University of Exeter honorary graduate Ann Daniels congratulated pupils from schools in Exeter by recognising their achievements at the annual Excellence in Exeter awards evening on Thursday 27 November.