News round-up – September 2025
Race Review
The University has published a landmark review of its historic links to slavery and racism
The recent publication of the University’s Race Review marked a significant moment in the University’s willingness and determination to learn from its past, in order to shape its future. The independent, academically-led report is thought to be one of the most ambitious, wide-ranging and sustained reviews of its kind, with extensive research, community engagement and consultation, including with alumni.
The recommendations are those of the authors who were given complete editorial independence. The University has committed to a number of initial actions and will, with the help of a Response Group, consider and prioritise the many specific recommendations. You can find the full report, and more information on how the University plans to respond, here: More information…
Research
First patient dosed in Scotland with new liver therapy
A new cell therapy treatment for patients with advanced liver disease has been given to a human patient for the first time in Edinburgh. RTX001 is in clinical trials to determine its safety and effectiveness, with the aim of recruiting 25 patients across the UK and Spain for this stage of the study. It is under development by Resolution Therapeutics which was founded in May 2020 to commercialise the work of Professor Stuart Forbes, director of the Centre for Regenerative Medicine at the University of Edinburgh. More information…
New hub to harness magic of microbes to turn trash into treasure
The University of Edinburgh has launched the £14 million Carbon-Loop Sustainable Biomanufacturing Hub (C-Loop), aiming to transform industrial waste into valuable chemicals and materials using microorganisms. This initiative seeks to make manufacturing cleaner and part of a circular economy by reducing reliance on fossil fuels. C-Loop will also establish the UK’s first BioFactory, a platform for waste analysis, sustainability evaluation, and scale-up. The hub is led by Professor Stephen Wallace in partnership with several UK universities and over 40 industry partners. More information…
Socioeconomic status linked with brain health, study suggests
Research led by the University of Edinburgh indicates that socioeconomic status can influence brain health in later life. The study found that lower socioeconomic status is associated with changes in brain structure, such as white matter hyperintensities, which are linked to cognitive decline and dementia. The findings highlight the importance of addressing social inequalities to improve public health outcomes. More information…
Eczema patients’ voices amplified by ECA academic and team
An academic from the Edinburgh College of Art (ECA) has collaborated with a team to amplify the voices of eczema patients. Through creative projects and community engagement, the initiative aims to raise awareness about the challenges faced by individuals with eczema and promote better understanding and support. The project highlights the role of art and design in addressing health issues. More information…
Fighting fire with Ideas: How our fire engineers save lives
The University of Edinburgh’s fire engineering team is developing innovative solutions to improve fire safety and save lives. Their research focuses on understanding fire behavior, improving building designs, and creating advanced fire detection systems. The team’s work aims to reduce fire-related injuries and fatalities through engineering and technological advancements. More information…
Students
AI talent receives boost as scholarships announced
The University of Edinburgh has announced new scholarships to support emerging talent in artificial intelligence. The scholarships aim to provide financial assistance and opportunities for students pursuing AI studies, fostering innovation and research in the field. The initiative underscores the university’s commitment to advancing AI education and research. More information…
Community
Your Impact
The Summer 2025 digital edition of Your Impact – Enlightened’s sister publication – is out now. The newsletter reports the impact of valued supporters of the University. In this issue, you’ll discover the many ways they are making a meaningful difference in students’ lives, advancing groundbreaking research, and strengthening communities worldwide. We also celebrate remarkable individuals whose work embodies innovation and lasting community impact. Read the newsletter…
New podcast: Beyond the Books
The School of Literatures, Languages and Culture has launched a podcast that gives you a behind-the-scenes look at research and the people who make it happen. Researched, curated, edited and presented by PhD students, seven episodes are available now. Listen on YouTube…
University of Edinburgh Journal marks centenary
The University of Edinburgh Journal offers a unique perspective into the University’s history and recently been revisiting its archive to examine historic issues by publishing fresh perspectives alongside legacy writing. You can read a sample of its current edition on its website. More information…
University backs plans for local economic growth
The University of Edinburgh is supporting initiatives aimed at boosting local economic growth. Through partnerships with local businesses and organizations, the university seeks to contribute to the development of the regional economy by leveraging its research, resources, and expertise. More information…
Uni’s sport and wellbeing impact delivers £226m economic benefits
The University of Edinburgh’s sports and wellbeing programs have generated £226 million in economic benefits. The programs promote physical health, mental wellbeing, and community engagement, demonstrating the university’s role in enhancing public health and contributing to the economy. More information…
Campus
University set to host £750m national supercomputer
The University of Edinburgh is set to host a new £750 million national supercomputer, aiming to advance research in areas such as artificial intelligence, climate change, and medicine. The supercomputer will be housed at the university’s EPCC and is expected to significantly enhance the UK’s computational capabilities. More information…
A new creative space at Edinburgh Futures Institute made possible by a generous gift from Edinburgh alumna
We are delighted to announce the development of the Anthea Bond Exhibition Room at Edinburgh Futures Institute. Anthea Bond studied dentistry at the College of Medicine and has made this donation for a much-needed exhibition space at the Futures Institute to mark a milestone birthday, after years of giving in support of medical scholarships at the University. More information…
Academics celebrated in King’s Birthday Honours
Several University of Edinburgh academics have been recognized in the King’s Birthday Honours list for their contributions to science, education, and public service. The honours highlight the university’s commitment to excellence and its impact on various fields. More information…
