Dear colleague,
I hope this message finds you well. Firstly, I’d like to thank all of you who have taken the time to complete the latest ‘Work and Wellbeing’ survey. We had a strong response this time and we find it very important to listen to feedback so we understand how the Semester is progressing and what perspectives our community have. The results are being distributed to survey leads for detailed analysis and we’re hoping this will be ready for consideration by University Executive Board in December.
Industrial action on USS pensions
I wrote to you all earlier this week about potential industrial action as a result of the UCU ballot on the issue of USS pensions. We are, of course, paying close attention to ongoing discussions and developments at national level, including at the meeting of UCU’s Higher Education Committee later today. Once we have more information, we will be able to consider it carefully, and update you further.
Appointment of Deputy Vice-Chancellor
I’m pleased that Professor Phil Allmendinger will be joining us next March as our new Deputy Vice-Chancellor. I believe Professor Allmendinger brings with him an invaluable set of skills and experiences, informed by his education and research background, as well as a strong commitment to help us enhance our outstanding and inclusive community, which will benefit our University greatly. I’d like to thank all those involved in the recruitment process and the interview panel.
Climate Action Survey
As the UN Climate Change Conference (COP26) continues to debate its final agreement, I’m sure the individual and collective actions we can all take to combat climate change have been at the forefront of many of our minds. The Climate Action Framework team has been seeking the views of staff and students through its Climate Action Survey and I’d encourage you to complete it before the deadline of 21 November, if you haven’t already done so.
Remembrance Day
My thanks to University Chaplain, Revd Canon Nigel Rawlinson, to students Sophia Eng and Edward Owens and to all who joined them on the Parade for helping our community to mark Remembrance Day on campus yesterday. For those who were unable to make it, you can watch the event online.
Flu vaccination clinics on campus
By way of a reminder, the University is again funding flu vaccination clinics on campus for staff this year. I understand that appointments in the first week are largely booked already, so please do secure a slot if you would like to take up the opportunity to have a free flu vaccination.
New spin-off helping to diagnose bacterial infections
I’d like to congratulate Professor Toby Jenkins and his colleagues on developing a simple test for diagnosing bacterial infections in wounds and commercialising it through a new spin-out company, SmartWound Limited, in partnership with University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust. It’s great to see this research being taken forward to allow diagnosis of bacterial infections in ways not previously possible.
Prestigious automotive award for Professor Chris Brace
Many congratulations to IAAPS Academic Director Professor Chris Brace, who has been awarded the 2021 FISITA Academy of Technical Leadership Prize. This is an outstanding achievement recognising international excellence and was announced at the FISITA (International Federation of Societies of Automotive Engineers) World Mobility Summit held online earlier this week.
Finally, many congratulations to Team Bath Netball who have become British Fast5 All-Stars champions for the first time. This superb win, ahead of February and the start of the 2022 Vitality Superleague season, is a fantastic achievement.
With best wishes,
Professor Ian White
Vice-Chancellor and President
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