News archive 2010

What happens to equality and diversity in the face of adversity?

Latest research suggesting that women, ethnic minority groups and disabled people are being hardest hit in the recession was under discussion at a major equality summit held at Queen Mary, University of London last week.

FReD can help explain how a bee sees

Bees can see colours but they perceive the world differently to us, including variations in hue that we cannot ourselves distinguish.

Study confirms long-lasting benefit of radiotherapy for localised breast cancer

A study confirms the long-lasting benefit of radiotherapy for localised breast cancer, and reports importance of tamoxifen for reducing recurrence.

Elusive spintronics success could lead to single chip for processing and memory

Researchers from Queen Mary, University of London (UK) and the University of Fribourg (Switzerland) have shown that a magnetically polarised current can be manipulated by electric fields.

Award for GP researcher is a first for women doctors

A prestigious award from the Royal College of GPs has been won by a professor at Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry.

Queen Mary, University of London receives Good Food Award

Queen Mary, University of London was presented with a prestigious Good Food on the Public Plate award on the 30 November in recognition of its efforts in serving seasonal, UK-sourced fruit and vegetables, using free range eggs across all catering areas, increasing the choice of vegetarian options in catering outlets, and for the introduction of a weekly Farmers’ Market.

Earliest Holocaust films discovered in Russian Archive

A Russian cinema expert at Queen Mary, University of London has rediscovered a collection of WWII films, documenting Nazi atrocities towards Soviet Jews, hidden for more than 60 years in Russia’s State Archives.

Amanda Vickery goes behind closed doors with the Georgians

Amanda Vickery, newly appointed Professor of Early Modern History at Queen Mary, University of London is presenting a flagship three-part series for BBC 2, exploring domestic life in Georgian England.

A royal visit to Centre of the Cell

Their Royal Highnesses (TRH) The Earl and Countess of Wessex visited Queen Mary, University of London’s Centre of the Cell on Thursday 25 November, as part of a tour around several charities in east London.

Guardian Public Service Award for School widening participation scheme

A pre-medical school work placement scheme aimed at widening-participation for local A-level students considering a career in medicine, has been awarded the Guardian Public Service Award 2010 in Innovation and Progress. 

The good, the bad and the ugly terms of Cloud Computing

A survey of 31 Cloud computing contracts from 27 different providers has found that many include clauses that could have a significant impact, often negative, on the rights and interests of customers.

Kidney Research UK project signs over 500 to NHS Organ Donor Register

A unique team of Peer Educators trained by Kidney Research UK - Britain’s leading charity dedicated to funding research into kidney disease - has successfully signed over 500 people to the NHS Organ Donor Register thanks to funding from the Big Lottery Fund (BIG).

Yearly mammogram screening for women with a family history of breast cancer could save lives

Giving women younger than 50 years who have a family history of breast cancer a mammogram every year will detect more cancers and could save lives, according to an article published Online First in The Lancet Oncology today (18 November 2010).

Amanda Vickery finds a new academic home at Queen Mary

Historian, writer and broadcaster Amanda Vickery arrives at Queen Mary, University of London on 1 January 2011, following her appointment as Professor of Early Modern History.

Barts trials treatment for high blood pressure with revolutionary potential

A treatment for hypertension involving minor kidney surgery, shown to be more effective in reducing high blood pressure than medical therapy alone, is being trialled at Barts and The London NHS Trust and Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry.

Government’s personal health record project fails to engage patients

An online personal health organiser developed as part of the £12.4 billion National Programme for IT in the National Health Service has failed to attract the user numbers anticipated a study published in the BMJ today (17 November) reveals.

Major research project into Peace Process launched

A major new project dealing with conflict and the peace process was launched last Friday at a packed event in Dundalk Institute of Technology.

New discovery offers hope for the prevention of prostate cancer

Scientists may have found the key to preventing prostate cancer, according to promising new research, published in the journal Cancer Research.

The Times lists Barts and The London doctors among UK’s leading specialists

Five specialists at Barts and The London NHS Trust and Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry are named as being among Britain’s top doctors in a special issue of The Times.

Danger posed by the Real IRA and Continuity IRA at greatest level in over a decade

The danger posed by groups such as the Real IRA and Continuity IRA is now at its greatest level in over a decade, and is likely to increase. 

A new report commissioned by the International Centre for the Study of Radicalisation and Political Violence’s (ICSR) at King’s College London, written by Dr Martyn Frampton, Queen Mary, University of London, is the most authoritative attempt to date to address the recent resurgence of violent republicanism.

Research strengthens evidence of link between paracetamol use in pregnancy and childhood asthma

Evidence suggesting that the risk of childhood asthma associated with prenatal paracetamol exposure may depend on antioxidant genes in the mother has been found by a team of UK scientists.

Scientists catch sunburn in whales

Whales exhibit skin damage consistent with acute sunburn in humans, and it seems to be getting worse over time, reveals research published this week.

Rogue gene hijacks stem cells to jumpstart human cancer

A gene thought to be responsible for initiating human cancer has been identified by researchers at Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry.

The study - published online today (9 November)  in the journal Cancer Research - paves the way for developing early cancer diagnostic tests, and finding new treatments that prevent or stop the spread of cancer cells at an early stage.

Hpv vaccine could cut cervical screening to twice in a lifetime

Women who have had the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine could need only two HPV screening tests for the rest of their lives according to new research being presented at the NCRI Cancer Conference in Liverpool (9 November 2010).

Rare bat found in oil palm plantation's oasis

The discovery of a rare bat species in a tiny fragment of rainforest surrounded by an oil palm plantation has demonstrated that even small areas of forest are worth saving.

Mobile phones could be the key to better STI diagnosis

Mobile phones could revolutionise the diagnosis of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) by using new technology to give instant results and recommend treatment options.

Business School gives back to 'Big Society'

The School of Business and Management at Queen Mary, University of London is the first in the UK to set up a free consultancy service to help not-for-profit-organisations (NGOs) become more business savvy - particularly vital as government funding cuts bite.

Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry in supercluster initiative promises massive boost for UK life sciences

A Joint & Related Inflammatory Diseases Capability Cluster that has Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry among its academic partners is one of two new initiatives launched by the Universities Minister David Willetts at the recent Association of British Pharmaceuticals Industry (ABPI)/BioIndustry Association Conference in London.

Barts and The London researcher publishes new guidelines on how to measure the success of e-Health programmes

Guiding principles for evaluating eHealth initiatives are published today (Tuesday 2 November) by researchers behind the evaluation of the Government’s controversial Summary Care Record programme.

Stroma may provide key to better cancer treatment

A project focusing on the scar tissue surrounding cancer tumours aims to provide new targets for drugs for treating pancreatic cancer, the fifth highest cause of cancer deaths in the UK.

William Harvey Day 2010

Nobel Laureate Sir Tim Hunt FRS, and the University of Oxford’s Professor Marcus du Sautoy are among guests speakers at this years flagship event at Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry’s – William Harvey Day (26 October 2010).

Tiny brained bees solve a complex mathematical problem

Bumblebees can find the solution to a complex mathematical problem which keeps computers busy for days.

Economist Kate Barker CBE on UK Monetary Policy reform

Whether or not the UK’s monetary policy framework needs reform to prevent future economic turmoil was discussed by Kate Barker CBE, former member of the Monetary Policy Committee last night (Monday 18 October 2010).

Queen Mary Principal comments on the Browne review

The Principal of Queen Mary, University of London, Professor Simon Gaskell, responds to the publication of Lord Browne's proposals for higher education.

Online guitar tutorial to set your performance on fire

Budding guitar heroes can get a helping hand from hot new online tutorials created by audio engineers at Queen Mary, University of London.

The Centre for Commercial Law Studies celebrates its 30th anniversary

Lord Hoffman, Sir Roy Goode and Nicholas Green QC, the chairman of the Bar, are among the top legal minds speaking at a conference to mark the 30^th anniversary of the Centre for Commercial Law Studies (CCLS) at Queen Mary, University of London.

Queen Mary welcomes farmers’ market to Mile End campus

A new farmers' market has arrived at Queen Mary. The market takes place every Thursday from 9.00am to 2.00pm at The Curve, Westfield Way, Queen Mary, Mile End Road

Global Survey Reveals Corporate Choices in International Arbitration

This week sees the results of a major survey on international arbitration by the School of International Arbitration at Queen Mary, University of London, sponsored by global law firm White & Case LLP.

Professor Hennessy joins the House of Lords

Professor Peter Hennessy, a leading authority on contemporary British history at Queen Mary, University of London, has been elevated to the House of Lords.

Scientists comment on Nobel Prize in Physics 2010

The Nobel Prize in Physics 2010 has been awarded today to Andre Geim and Konstantin Novoselov, of the University of Manchester, "for groundbreaking experiments regarding the two-dimensional material graphene".

American Civil War hits streets of London

Fresh research revealing the critical role Britain played in the American Civil War has spawned a series of walking tours, taking in historic sites around the UK capital connected to the famous nineteenth-century conflict.

Principal of Queen Mary calls for protection of science research budgets

"Public investment in science and engineering research is vital to maintaining the UK's talent pool," says Professor Simon Gaskell, Principal of Queen Mary, University of London.

Turning Queen Mary Inside Out

Leading academics at Queen Mary, University of London will feature prominently in the forthcoming Inside Out Festival, taking place from 25 to 31 October 2010. Now in it's second year, the Festival showcases the fascinating contribution made by nine London universities to the arts and cultural scene in the capital. 

Researchers from Barts and The London Medical School provide biological insights into human growth

Hundreds of genetic variants in at least 180 separate genes have been identified as having an influence on adult human height, thanks to a large genome-wide association (GWA) study involving researchers from Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry.

Protein key to growth of pancreatic cancer

A protein known to regulate cell proliferation and survival has been linked for the first time to pancreatic cancer, the UK’s fifth most common cause of cancer death.

World's first global graffiti-jam at London Design Festival

A new iPhone app has underground creatives splashing 3D graffiti on a giant screen in Tent Digital at Tent London as part of the London Design Festival this week 23 - 26 September 2010.

Whitechapel science centre nominated for top London award

Centre of the Cell – the Whitechapel based science education centre which is the first in the world to be located within biomedical research laboratories – has been short-listed for a BT Visit London Award 2010. The nomination in the category ‘Best New Tourism Experience for 2010’ comes in the month that the Centre marks its first anniversary.

Barts and The London lead researcher organises 'Glioma Club' conference

The inaugural ‘Glioma Club’, a brain tumour conference for scientists and medical staff, is being held today (Thursday 23 September) at Barts and The London Medical School.

Queen Mary up for three prestigious awards

Queen Mary, University of London has been shortlisted for three prizes at this year’s Times Higher Education Awards.

Renowned medical historian joins Queen Mary

Professor Tilli Tansey is to join the School of History at Queen Mary, University of London in October 2010, initially funded by a Fellowship  from  the Wellcome Trust. An expert in modern medical history, she brings a wealth of experience from her previous professorial post at the Wellcome Trust Centre for the History of Medicine at University College London.

Review of Barrett’s oesophagus management is prelude to largest genetic risk study into condition

A comprehensive review of the diagnosis and management of Barrett’s oesophagus – a sometimes precancerous condition which causes abnormal cells to grow on the inner lining of the gullet – conducted by researchers at Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, is published in the British Medical Journal today (Saturday 18 September 2010).

Athena SWAN is alive and well at Queen Mary

Queen Mary, University of London has retained its Athena SWAN Bronze award for promoting gender equality and excellence in recruiting and progressing women in science, engineering and technology (SET).

Department of Economics becomes the School of Economics and Finance

The Department of Economics at Queen Mary, University of London recently became the School of Economics and Finance, at the same time unveiling its five-year expansion programme, and a portfolio of new financial courses.

Queen Mary ranks amongst world’s elite universities

Queen Mary, University of London has been rated amongst the world’s top 200 universities in The Times Higher Education’s prestigious World University Rankings, the most rigorous and comprehensive study of global university performance ever undertaken.

Facebook mentor scheme for year abroad students

For those undergraduates embarking on a year abroad as part of their degree, it is money management, worries about whether their language skills are up to scratch and loneliness that top the list of concerns, according to research by the Learning Institute at Queen Mary, University of London.

Business Secretary outlines science future at Queen Mary innovation labs

The Business Secretary delivered his first big science speech this morning, Wednesday 8 September 2010, at the Queen Mary BioEnterprises Innovation Centre in Whitechapel.

Festival reveals why Shakespeare is German

Queen Mary, University of London is collaborating with the Globe Theatre and the Goethe-Institut London on an autumn season of events celebrating Germany’s great love of Shakespeare, beginning on 7 October 2010.

First citizen cyberscience summit held in London

Citizen cyberscience is a growing trend where ordinary people use their computers and the world wide web to contribute in meaningful ways to an increasingly wide range of scientific challenges.

Citizen cyberscience activity takes place all over the world and by its very nature participants very rarely – if ever – meet. But now, for the first time, a Citizen Cyberscience Summit in London has brought them together to showcase new projects and to provide a platform for scientists and citizens to share their thoughts on the impact of citizen cyberscience face-to-face.

Doctors’ religious beliefs strongly influence end of life decisions

Atheist or agnostic doctors are almost twice as willing to take decisions that they think will hasten the end of a very sick patient’s life as doctors who are deeply religious, suggests research by Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry published online today (August 23) in the Journal of Medical Ethics.

Eating a sensible diet improves lung health research shows

Steering clear of full-fat, fried, and processed foods is not just good for overall health, it could help prevent chronic lung conditions, a large UK study has revealed.

Professor Finbarr Cotter elected President of the British Society of Haematology

Finbarr Cotter, Professor of Haematology at Barts and The London School of Medicine, has been elected President of the British Society of Haematology.  

Queen Mary sees rise in student satisfaction

According to the 2010 National Student Survey, the overall satisfaction rate among students at Queen Mary, University of London rose from 85 per cent to 86 per cent, four per cent higher than the national average.

Scientists find 95 genes for blood-fats and heart disease

New research involving scientists from Queen Mary, University of London has identified 95 genes that are linked to abnormal levels of blood-fats cholesterol and triglyceride, both which are  linked to heart disease.

Synthetic bone graft recruits stem cells for faster bone healing

Scientists have developed a material for bone grafts that could one day replace the 'gold standard' natural bone implants.

Honorary Fellowship awarded to government Chief Scientific Advisor

Queen Mary, University of London celebrates distinguished government scientist Professor Robert (Bob) Watson who becomes an Honorary Fellow of the College today, 23 July 2010.

Farnborough Airshow is launch pad for winners of OurSpace national schools' competition

The Grand Prize winners of the UK OurSpace competition were announced today on Futures Day at the Farnborough International Airshow 2010.

Professor Evelyn Welch becomes a dedicated follower of fashion

A major new project exploring the changing fashion trends in Europe from the Renaissance to the late 18^th century has been given the go-ahead after Queen Mary, University of London, secured a grant of nearly €1m from Humanities in the European Research Area (HERA).

Cassini sees giant snowballs form in Saturn ring

New pictures from NASA’s Cassini spacecraft show giant 20 kilometre (12 mile)-wide snowballs forming in Saturn's fifth ring (the F ring).

Scientists hope Cosmic Vision will find distant planets

The UK Space Agency has awarded £3.65million to help scientists prepare for three new space missions, including one hoping to find Earth-like planets in deep space, supported by Queen Mary, University of London.

Mathematical formula predicts clear favourite for the FIFA World Cup

A sophisticated new analysis of team tactics predicts a Spanish win in Sunday's FIFA World Cup final and also shows why England were beaten by Germany.

HPV DNA testing for precancers and cervical cancers over 50 per cent more sensitive than cytology testing

HPV DNA testing for precancers and cervical cancers is over 50 per cent more sensitive than cytology testing for the same conditions a community-based study in Mexico has revealed.  Results of the largest HPV DNA primary screening study ever to be performed in a Latin American country point to the readiness of HPV DNA testing for large-scale implementation in Mexico and are published online today in Cancer, Causes and Controls.

The first arrivals – ancient Britons were the earliest North Europeans

Delving deep into our past, archaeologists and palaeontologists unearth the earliest evidence of human occupation in Britain.

Professor John Oxford wins microbiology communications award

Professor John Oxford has received an influential award in recognition of his vital work conveying public health messages about influenza, in particular making the recent swine flu pandemic understood by non-scientists.

Warmer ecosystems could absorb less atmospheric carbon dioxide

Research by scientists at Queen Mary, University of London has found that a predicted rise in global temperature of 4°C by 2100 could lead to a 13% reduction in ecosystems' ability to absorb carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the atmosphere.

Professor Peter Kalmus becomes an Honorary Fellow of the Institute of Physics

Emeritus Professor of Physics at Queen Mary, University of London, Peter I P Kalmus OBE, has been made an Honorary Fellow of the Institute of Physics.

Even bees need a break

Bees observe strict working hours even when the sun shines all day and night, according to new research from Queen Mary, University of London.

Nitrate in beetroot juice lowers blood pressure

The nitrate content of beetroot juice is the underlying cause of its blood pressure lowering benefits, research from Queen Mary University of London reveals today.

Dr Paul Curzon awarded prestigious National Teaching Fellowship

Dr Paul Curzon, from the School of Electronic Engineering and Computer Science at Queen Mary, University of London, has been appointed as a National Teaching Fellow by the Higher Education Academy.

Queen Mary science ambassador commended for infectious enthusiasm

Dr Genoveva Esteban has been highly commended for her "infectious enthusiasm" and dedication in igniting the next generation's passion for science.

I'm a Scientist, get me out of here!

Researcher Dr Ben Still has come out on top in I'm a Scientist, get me out of here!, a unique competition, combining science, excited school kids and X Factor style voting.

Apatech achieves top prize in business impact awards

Innovation at Queen Mary, University of London has been rewarded again, with a top prize in the PraxisUnico Impact Awards for spin-out company ApaTech.

Queen Mary, University of London introduces the Lord Brain Memorial Lecture, recognising outstanding contribution to neuroscience

Andrew Lees, Professor of Neurology at University College London, has become the first ever recipient of the Lord Brain Memorial Medal – awarded for the scientific contributions he has made to the field of movement disorders within the UK. 

There’s more to glass than meets the eye - improved glass toothpaste promises to eliminate the pain of sensitive teeth

Researchers at Queen Mary, University of London’s Dental Institute have developed new glasses for use in toothpastes aimed at eliminating tooth pain that occurs on taking hot or cold foodstuffs into the mouth. About 40 per cent of adults suffer from this often acute discomfort known as ‘dentine hypersensitivity.’

'There is no substitute for top class education' Dianne Abbott MP tells school students visiting Queen Mary

Labour politician Diane Abbott was welcomed to Queen Mary, University of London today Wednesday 23 June 2010.

Spot the difference predicts model of human visual attention

In a computerized game of 'spot the difference', people are more likely to notice things added or removed than even major changes in colour.

Trumping the trumpets: how audio engineering helps tone down vuvuzela disruption

Thanks to researchers at the Centre for Digital Music (C4DM) at Queen Mary, University of London, anyone watching the World Cup on their computer can now filter out the droning sounds of vuvuzela playing in South Africa's stadiums.

Individual budgets offer new choices but debate urgently needed says report

New moves towards transferring the purchasing power of the public sector towards individual users of public services are radical and empowering. However a debate is urgently needed on the way these reforms are to be implemented, according to a major new report.

Politics professor awarded OBE in Queens Birthday Honours

A professor of politics at Queen Mary, University of London received an OBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List 2010, last Saturday (12 June).

Linguistics at Queen Mary is ranked third best in UK

Linguistics at Queen Mary, University of London has been ranked best in London and third nationwide, just behind Cambridge and Oxford, in The Times’ Good University Guide 2011.

Leading medical research company signs with Queen Mary BioEnterprises

Europe’s leading anti-viral research organisation – dedicated to tackling, among other viruses, the common cold - is to enhance its capabilities by taking up premises within the Queen Mary BioEnterprises Innovation Centre in Whitechapel.  

Robust consumer protection laws needed to close internet loopholes

Governments the world over must do more to safeguard internet shoppers from ‘rogue’ traders and their online scams, a new study from Queen Mary, University of London suggests.

Doubts over vein blockages in people with MS

Serious doubts have been cast over whether a vein disorder, purported to cause MS and which was uncovered last year, actually exists.

Down’s Syndrome Chromosome Yields More Cancer-Blocking Genes

Scientists from Queen Mary, University of London have discovered cancer-blocking activity for genes carried on chromosome 21 - an extra copy of which is carried by people with Down’s syndrome.

Physics department at Queen Mary in national top-ten

Queen Mary, University of London’s Department of Physics has been ranked second in London and seventh nationwide in The Guardian’s annual university guide, jumping eight places in a year.

Law school at Queen Mary is rated best in the capital

Queen Mary, University of London’s School of Law has been ranked first in London and third nationwide in The Guardian’s annual university guide.

Ajay Kakkar addresses House of Lords for the first time

Professor Ajay Kakkar’s passionate maiden speech in the House of Lords last week brought murmurs of approval from the Lords Chamber, particularly as he described his affection for the NHS.

Introducing the good food guide for cockroaches

Ever wondered how cockroaches seem to know the best place to grab a meal? New research at Queen Mary, University of London suggests that, just like humans, they share their local knowledge of the best food sources and follow 'recommendations' from others.

Five new awards give doctoral students first-hand work experience

Queen Mary, University of London has been awarded four Collaborative Doctoral Awards (also known as CASE awards) by the Arts and Humanities Research Council.  These awards are intended to encourage and develop collaboration and partnerships between Higher Education Institution (HEI) departments and non-academic organisations and businesses.

Two prestigious Leverhulme Artists in Residences awarded to Queen Mary

Of only 11 Leverhulme Artists in Residences Awards awarded this year, Queen Mary, University of London has won two, making possible the residency of the world renowned Ron Athey and Rachel Oxley at the College. 

Queen Mary launches first specialist factual documentary MA module in UK university

The Film Studies Department at Queen Mary, University of London has joined forces with production company Mandrake Films to launch the first specialist factual documentary course in a UK university.

Breast cancer research wins prize

A PhD student at Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry has won the Emerging Investigators Poster Prize at the Breast Cancer Campaign research 2010 conference.

Truth and the historian

Leading intellectual historian Professor Quentin Skinner is to give his inaugural lecture at Queen Mary, University of London on Wednesday 2 June 2010.

Department of Politics scoop Leverhulme Research Fellowships

The Department of Politics has secured two prestigious Leverhulme Research Fellowships. 

How do bumblebees get predators to buzz off?

Bumblebees' distinctive black and yellow "warning" colours may not be what protects them from flying predators researchers have found.

Greater awareness of cultural differences needed in clinicians, scientists say

Clinicians need to be more culturally aware when it comes to diagnosing and treating personality disorders, a new study from Queen Mary, University of London suggests.

Linguistics at Queen Mary ranked fifth among UK universities

Queen Mary, University of London is one of the top five places in the UK to study linguistics, according to The Independent’s Complete University Guide 2011.

Professor calls for urgent change in research methods after Dr Andrew Wakefield is struck off

Disgraced Dr Andrew Wakefield used research methods which were flawed - but which remain commonplace in the scientific world, according to a professor who gave evidence against him.

Builder for new Drapers’ Academy chosen

An important milestone was reached this week when the London Borough of Havering appointed one of the country’s largest construction companies to build the new Drapers’ Academy.

International arbitration survey gathers pace

A major survey on international arbitration by the School of International Arbitration at Queen Mary, University London, sponsored by global law firm White & Case, is canvassing the views of in-house counsel in key markets worldwide.

Charity workers want pensions to be more engaged with ethical investment

Research by Queen Mary, University of London reveals that nearly three quarters of charity workers believe investment in companies that operate responsibly is one of the most important pension attributes.

Greater awareness and screening for hepatitis, academics say

A professor of hepatology at Queen Mary, University of London has joined other higher education institutions in calling on the Government to implement a hepatitis screening programme for people who come to the UK from countries at high-risk of the disease.

Leading cardiovascular research unit opens in East London

A new research unit to target the exploration and treatment of cardiovascular disease and other heart conditions will be unveiled today (19 May) at the London Chest Hospital in East London.

Queen Mary sets the standard for architecture and urban design

One of Queen Mary, University of London’s most striking buildings is to become the centre of attention for a group of school children, as part of the Open-City project that showcases works of exemplary architecture in London. 

Healthcare in the ‘Big Society’

Politicians who advocate patients taking greater control of their own healthcare fail to understand what really motivates people, says a bio-ethics expert at Queen Mary, University of London.

Centre of the Cell takes the educational initiative

Centre of the Cell, the science education centre at Queen Mary, University of London, has won the Educational Initiative award at the 2010 Museums & Heritage Awards for Excellence.  

Is Britain becoming another European consensus democracy?

As Britain’s first peace-time coalition government in 70 years begins its work today (12 May) questions are being raised about the changing nature of British politics. Is the May 2010 Westminster election a realigning election that will change the shape of British government and the nature of Britain’s democracy forever?

Dr Francoise Boucek dissects Cameron's offer of electoral reform

Dr Françoise Boucek, of the Department of Politics, dissects Cameron's offer of electoral reform in the event that the Liberal Democrats align with the Conservatives:

A (well) hung Parliament – but where are the women?

Dr Rainbow Murray, of the Department of Politics, at Queen Mary, University of London writes of her concern at the lack of female representation in the General Election:

Party politics expert reacts to news of a hung parliament

Dr Francoise Boucek, a specialist in party politics, comments on the recent announcement that Britain will have a 'hung' parliament: 

As I write, individual political parties’ final seat shares are still unknown but one thing is clear: since no party has won a majority of seats there will be a ‘hung’ parliament at Westminster as predicted.

Dr Jon Davis: Milliband could be new Labour leader

Dr Jon Davis, leading lecturer in political history at Queen Mary, comments on the hung parliament result of the general election:

Queen Mary historian helps to wake the dead

Professor Jim Bolton, a medieval historian at Queen Mary, University of London, features in the new BBC2 television series History Cold Case, starting on Thursday 6 May.

First rule of spin

Politicians using spin, image overhauls and media manipulation to win ‘hearts and minds’ at election time is nothing new; it is a tactic that dates back to the Tudors, argues a leading historian at Queen Mary, University of London.

Award-winning smile for dental professor

Professor Elizabeth Davenport from the Institute of Dentistry was “overwhelmed” to be honoured for outstanding achievement in dentistry at the Dental Awards 2010 recently.

Results of bowel cancer study could save thousands of lives

A five-minute screening test could cut the risk of developing bowel cancer by a third and save thousands of lives from the UK's second biggest cancer killer, according to a team of researchers from institutions including Queen Mary, University of London.

Cervical cancer screening method should be changed, research suggests

Cervical cancer screening intervals could be extended to five years for women aged 30 and over if the primary screening method was human papillomavirus (HPV) testing, say scientists at Queen Mary, University of London.

Top awards for plastic and ceramic research at Queen Mary

Two top scientific prizes have been awarded to academics from the School of Engineering and Materials Science at Queen Mary University of London.

New research centre will tackle host of childhood illnesses

Doctors at Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry are launching an appeal today to fund a new Child Health Research Centre.

Flight ban lifts following volcanic ash scare

Aeronautical engineer Dr Ranjan Vepa comments on the lifting of flight restrictions following Iceland's volcanic eruption and Europe-wide ash cloud.

Forensics’ evidence could be bruised

Criminal cases where forensic experts determine the age of bruises on victims from photographs could be flawed, according to scientific research.

Historic building at Queen Mary to be restored

Queen Mary, University of London has announced that it is to restore the Grade II listed People's Palace located on its Mile End campus.

Goldman Sachs and fraud allegations

Professor Stefano Harney reacts to news that Wall Street banking giant Goldman Sachs is accused of de-frauding investors:

Proposed class actions for financial services claims

Professor Rachael Mulheron, of the School of Law, comments on the withdrawal of the proposed class actions for financial services claims:

The recent demise of the proposed collective (class) actions regime for financial services claims was an important consequence of the legislative ‘wash-up’ which followed the announcement, on 6 April, of the general election. 

Professor Trish Greenhalgh joins Queen Mary

Tasked with setting up and leading the Healthcare Innovation and Policy Unit in the Centre for Health Sciences at Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry is an ‘exciting challenge’ for new recruit Trish Greenhalgh.

Activiomics, a new spin-out from Queen Mary University of London, signs commercial agreement with GSK

Scientists from Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry at Queen Mary University of London, have developed a novel method of analysing and interpreting cell signalling pathways.

New BBC show charts history of maps

A historian at Queen Mary, University of London is to star in a brand new three-part series about extraordinary stories behind maps, starting on BBC Four this Sunday (18 April 2010).

Ron Athey brings his artistic body to Queen Mary

Influential American performer Ron Athey is visiting Queen Mary, University of London from March until June 2010 as a Leverhulme Trust Artist in Residence.

Honest deer every year

A male deer's voice changes from one mating season to the next, reflecting his age and rank in society, according to new research from Queen Mary, University of London.

New Dean for Education

Professor Anthony Warrens is set to join Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry in June 2010 as the new Dean for Education.

Common copy number variations unlikely to contribute significantly towards common diseases

A study of the genetics of common diseases, including diabetes, heart disease and bipolar disorder, has found that commonly occurring copy number variations - duplicated or missing chunks of DNA in our genome - are unlikely to play a major role in such diseases.

Queen Mary wins Attorney General Award

The Legal Advice Centre at Queen Mary, University of London won at the Attorney General Student Awards at the House of Lords on Tuesday 30 March.

Professor Ormerod joins Law Commission

A top legal academic at Queen Mary, University of London has been appointed a Law Commissioner by the Secretary of State for Justice.

Queen Mary hosts UK film premiere of Rebuilding Hope

Queen Mary screened the UK premiere of Rebuilding Hope, an award-winning documentary on post-war south Sudan, on Wednesday 31 March 2010.

School placements help to sell the language of business

British businesses claim to lose billions of pounds a year because so few employees are multi-lingual. A government decision to take foreign languages off the secondary school compulsory curriculum has not helped.

Inequality in appointment of new Supreme Court Justice

Following the appointment of Sir John Dyson to the Supreme Court, the Equal Justices Initiative (EJI) today expressed disappointment at the missed opportunity to appoint a second woman to the Court.

Queen Mary in running for Times Higher Education award

Queen Mary, University of London has been shortlisted for Outstanding Finance Team in the Times Higher Education Leadership and Management Awards.

Pulling power points the way to the World’s strongest insect

Following months of gruelling tests and trials, scientists now reveal the World's strongest insect to be a species of dung beetle called Onthophagus taurus.

Professor Susan Dilly appointed to Human Tissue Authority board

Professor Susan Dilly has been appointed as a professional Board Member of the Human Tissue Authority (HTA).

Queen Mary spin-out sold to global healthcare company

An award-winning Queen Mary, University of London spin-out company, established in 2001 to manufacture and market synthetic bone substitutes, has been acquired by global healthcare company Baxter International Inc. for total consideration of up to $330 million.

National Science and Engineering Week arrives at Queen Mary

Queen Mary, University of London welcomed over 200 pupils from eight schools across the region, as part of our festivities for National Science & Engineering Week 2010.

Sea-creatures' sex protein provides new insight into diabetes

A genetic accident in the sea more than 500 million years ago has provided new insight into diabetes, according to research from Queen Mary, University of London.

Queen Mary, University of London and Microsoft join forces in unique research collaboration

Byron Cook has taken up a new position at Queen Mary, University of London as one facet of an agreement between Microsoft Research Ltd and Queen Mary's School of Electronic Engineering and Computer Science.

Bees see super colour at super speed

Bees see the world almost five times faster than humans, according to new research from scientists at Queen Mary, University of London.

Twice as many lives saved than overdiagnosed by breast screening

For every woman overdiagnosed by breast screening, two deaths will be prevented, according to scientists at Queen Mary, University of London.

British economy depends on immigrant labour

Gordon Brown’s pledge of “British jobs for British workers” and the Tories’ plan for tougher border controls are nothing but political fantasy, according to a new book that reveals the truth about jobs and immigration in London.

Hello? Is there anybody out there?

As part of a new exhibition exploring the relationship between science and society, designers working with researchers from the Centre for Digital Music at Queen Mary, University of London are asking probing questions about our future world of sound and what impact it will have on our acoustic culture.

New Masters gives graduates the 'Obama factor'

Barack Obama’s formative experience as a community organiser in Chicago honed the leadership skills behind his successful presidential campaign.

Queen Mary, University of London will soon offer students the opportunity to gain similar experience, with the launch of a new MA in Community Organising in September 2010.

Health Innovation and Education Cluster announces new Managing Director

The new North East London, North Central London and Essex Health Innovation and Education Cluster has appointed Robyn Hudson as Managing Director.

Professor Maffulli comments on David Beckham's injury

David Beckham has ruptured his Achilles tendon, severely damaging his chance of playing for England in the 2010 World Cup. Professor Nicola Maffulli, Centre Lead for Sports and Exercise Medicine at Queen Mary, University of London shares his thoughts on the matter:

International Fellowship award to develop wearable computers

Dr Rui Yang from Queen Mary's School of Electronic Engineering and Computer Science has beaten off stiff competition to be appointed one of only 50 Newton International Fellows.

Local children learn about the value of foreign languages

School children from Tower Hamlets attended a one-day event organised by Queen Mary, University of London to find out about the importance of learning foreign languages as a business skill.

Imran Khan at Queen Mary

Pakistani politician and cricketing legend Imran Khan is to visit Queen Mary, University of London on Thursday 11 March 2010.

Exotic flowers help bees stay busy in winter

Recent years have seen an unusual rise in the number of bees about in the cold winter months, and scientists are now beginning to find out why.

Performance in East London to be celebrated in week-long festival

A series of performances, discussions and events will take place at Queen Mary, University of London in March to showcase the Artists in Residence (AiR) Project.

Putting the people back into the People’s Palace

Artists and academics from Queen Mary, University of London are inviting local communities in East London to take part in an open discussion about the future of the historical People’s Palace.

TV historian David Starkey at Queen Mary

Leading Tudor historian David Starkey OBE is to speak at Queen Mary, University of London on Thursday 4 March 2010.

Pinpointing immune system disturbances in coeliac disease

New research has identified four aspects of immune system disturbance which lead to the development of coeliac disease. Nearly 40 different inherited risk factors which predispose to the disease have now been identified.

The Abuse of Rhetoric

It was an abuse of rhetoric that led Britain into the Iraq War, argues a leading professor of communications at Queen Mary, University of London.

Director of Liberty to discuss faith and rights in the workplace

The director of human rights group Liberty is to deliver the annual LexisNexis Butterworth Lecture on Law and Society at Queen Mary, University of London on Tuesday 23 March 2010.

Cancer Research UK launches groundbreaking research centre at Barts

A new cancer centre, formed though a partnership between Cancer Research UK, Queen Mary, University of London, and Barts & The London NHS Trust, puts London at the forefront of cancer research. 

Study reveals long delays in medical research are costing the UK Jobs

New research from Queen Mary, University of London and Warwick Business School warns that delays and variability in the approvals process for clinical research could be causing pharmaceutical companies to look outside the UK and risks the country losing some of its most experienced researchers.

The hidden secrets of the Orion Nebula are revealed in a dramatic image taken by the new VISTA telescope.

Researchers win leading science image competition

An experimental image acquired by two researchers from the Centre for Microvascular Research at the William Harvey Research Institute has won first prize in the British Heart Foundation’s Reflections of Research competition. Dr Mathieu-Benoit Voisin and Miss Doris Proebstl scooped first place with the image entitled: Looking through the heart. The cells depicted are being studied in order to discover how inflammation in the heart muscle may be limited, to prevent further damage, following a heart attack.    

New research on government strategy to tackle classroom behaviour

With increasing focus on disruptive behaviour in primary schools, the UK government has placed ‘emotional literacy’ on the curriculum. 

A new research project at Queen Mary, University of London will ask whether this is an appropriate goal for policy-makers and how it might be achieved.

Queen Mary medic made ‘people’s peer’

Professor Ajay Kakkar, an expert in the treatment and prevention of blood clots at Barts and The London Medical School, is set to join the House of Lords.

Britain’s headwater streams continue to improve

Research from Queen Mary, University of London on the state of Britain’s streams is published in a new report today by the Countryside Survey partnership.

Mathematics: It's a kind of magic

The Manual of Mathematical Magic - a unique kit of magical miracles to impress and entertain your friends written by Queen Mary's Matt Parker and Peter McOwan - is being distributed to schools around the country.

Professor Adrian Newland announced as Chair of new Diagnostics Advisory Committee

The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) has today (4 February, 2010) announced the appointment of Professor Adrian Newland as the first Chair of its independent Diagnostics Advisory Committee, which was recently set up to evaluate diagnostic technologies and make recommendations for their use within the NHS in England.  

Professor of Trauma Sciences Karim Brohi comments on NAO report into major trauma care

Responding to a National Audit Office report into major trauma care across England published today - Friday 5 February 2010 - Karim Brohi Professor of Trauma Sciences at Barts and The London Medical School, and Consultant Trauma and Vascular Surgeon at Barts and The London NHS Trust, has made the following statement.

The Queen Mary Olympics Lectures 2010

The remarkable history of the Olympics will be revealed in a new lecture series, starting at Queen Mary, University of London on 9 February 2010.

HiFi(rst)! Queen Mary scientists kick off experiments at new spectrometer

Physicists from Queen Mary, University of London have become the first users of the latest instrument at ISIS, the UK's world leading physical and life sciences research laboratory.

Junk The Jargon!

Claire Sarell, a PhD student from the School of Biological and Chemical Sciences, has beaten off stiff competition to win £500 and first prize in the final of 'Junk the Jargon'.

Davos and the Cult of Leadership: Professor Harney comments

"Davos has been the scene of a lot of misinformation and disinformation about proprietary trading.  It is not that a ban on such trading among lending banks would prevent all bank failures.  It is rather that it might help to prevent systemic failure by limiting the infection of bad bets and burst bubbles across the whole system.

Dolphin and bat DNA on the same wavelength

Scientists at Queen Mary, University of London have shown that the remarkable ability of echolocation is shared by bats and dolphins at a much deeper level than anyone previously realised – all the way down to the molecular level.

Porn and the state: regulating internet content

Child pornography, illegal file sharing and terrorism are among the issues threatening to increase ‘Big Brother-like’ scrutiny of our internet activity, says a leading expert. 

This shift towards greater state control of online content, and how it will impinge on our rights, will be discussed by Professor Ian Walden in his inaugural lecture at Queen Mary, University of London on Wednesday 3 February 2010.

Kraft takeover of Cadbury - Professor Mick Rowlinson comments

"Cadbury certainly played its heritage card in the recent buyout negotiations.  Most media coverage refers to the chocolate company’s values rooted in the Quaker faith of its founding family.

Goldman Sachs bonuses - Professor Stefano Harney comments

"President Obama’s announcement means the UK government will have to act to break up the banks here in Britain.  Not to follow his lead would be to condemn the City of London to become the largest offshore banking colony in the world, with all the corruption and instability that would come with that.

Little pill means big news in the treatment of multiple sclerosis

A new drug for multiple sclerosis promises to change the lives of the 100,000 people in the UK who have the condition, say researchers at Queen Mary, University of London.

Queen Mary alumnus named a Lord Justice of Appeal

One of the first law graduates at Queen Mary, University of London has just been appointed a Lord Justice of Appeal by Her Majesty, the Queen.

HPV jab will prevent two thirds of cervical cancers in under 30s by 2025

The number of women under 30 diagnosed with cervical cancer will fall nearly two thirds by 2025, thanks to the HPV vaccine.

Queen Mary academics receive prestigious French award

Two professors at Queen Mary, University of London were made Knights of the Order of Academic Palms on Monday 18 January 2010.

UK should follow Obama's plan to tax banks: Queen Mary business expert Stefano Harney comments

"News that the US plans a 10-year tax on banks, raising $120 billion a year, ought to ensure that new taxation for the City of London becomes a permanent feature of the landscape here. 

Scientists find amazing new pondlife on nature reserve

One year in to a project to save one of the UK’s top sites for pondlife, amazing new species are being revealed for the first time.

Scientists from Queen Mary, University of London working with Dorset Wildlife Trust have discovered an astonishing variety of minute aquatic organisms, so small as to be invisible to the naked eye.

David Blunkett MP visits Queen Mary

Labour politician David Blunkett was welcomed to Queen Mary, University of London on Monday 11 January 2010.

Study sheds light on role of stem cells in children’s brain tumour

New research from scientists at Queen Mary, University of London shows how the most common type of children’s brain cancer can arise from stem cells.

How women first stirred the British love of tea

Women led the tea-drinking boom when it first took hold in eighteenth-century Britain, reveals new research by a cultural historian at Queen Mary, University of London.

Queen Mary blood expert honoured with a CBE

An academic from Queen Mary has been honoured in the New Year’s Honours List for his services to medicine.

Scientists develop quick and cheap test for hospital bug

Scientists at Queen Mary, University of London have developed tests which could revolutionise the detection of clostridium difficile and help cut the number of deaths in hospital wards from the superbug.