In this edition:
Starring UCL
A journey through UCL’s appearances on the big and small screen
Inside eye
How UCL and its partners are advancing the science of sight loss
Welcome
Welcome to Portico – the magazine for the UCL community.
UCL has been diverse and inclusive since our founding; a place that scientists, architects, artists and educators all call home. In this edition of Portico, our broad expertise is evident. Where else could you read about state-of-the-art eye care alongside perspectives on London in European literature?
I hope this edition leaves you feeling inspired and proud of your UCL connection.
Angharad Milenkovic, Vice-President (Advancement)
Features
Starring UCL
Embark on a cinematic journey through campus and explore just some of the iconic locations that have appeared on film, doubling as everything from university campuses to Ancient Rome, Gotham City and beyond.
Inside eye
UCL, Moorfields Eye Hospital and Moorfields Eye Charity are harnessing the power of their unique partnership to advance the science of sight loss and build a state-of-the art new centre for eye research, education and care.
The revolutionary rise of UCL Press
In just a decade, UCL Press has transformed academic publishing, proving that open access can both be rigorous and globally impactful.
Shaping tomorrow
Hidden ecosystems below Antarctica’s ice shelves, the power of shared mealtimes for wellbeing, and the climate impact of massive asteroid collisions – discover the latest breakthroughs from UCL's 11 faculties.
People & Ideas
Lessons in dialogue
UCL History student Mehrab Shah shares his transformative experience of the Impartial Chairs programme, which equips students with the skills to fairly and effectively tackle difficult conversations.
International diplomacy
Inspired By: Nik Mehta OBE
How embracing diversity helped British High Commissioner to Singapore Nik Mehta OBE (UCL Chemistry MSci 1999) to forge an exceptional, intercontinental career.
Plot twist
Inspired By: Janice Hallett
Proving that it’s never too late to try something new, Janice Hallett (UCL English BA 1990) reflects on her unexpected rise as a leading voice in crime fiction later in her career.
The European Literary Map of London
Spotlight
Dr Uta Staiger and Lucy Shackleton guide us through a lockdown-born online map and physical exhibition revealing London’s dichotomies through a literary lens.
Why the future of vaccines could be needle-free
Insider: Professor Sudaxshina Murdan
Professor of Pharmaceutical Sciences Sudaxshina Murdan specialises in developing vaccines that are more accessible, acceptable and effective, with a focus on overcoming the growing challenge of vaccine hesitancy.
Provost's view
Dr Michael Spence reflects on how UCL is shaping London – and how London shapes UCL.
Portico magazine features stories for and from the UCL community. If you have a story to tell or feedback to share, contact advancement@ucl.ac.uk
Editor: Lauren Cain
Editorial team: Ray Antwi, Laili Kwok, Harry Latter, Bryony Merritt, Lucy Morrish, Alex Norton
Shorthand presentation: Harpoon Productions
Additional design support: Boyle&Perks
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