// University News
9 May 2025
Supreme Court ruling: Update on practical implications for staff, students and visitors to campus accessing toilet facilities
Following the UK Supreme Court ruling that in the Equality Act 2010 ‘sex’ means biological sex and as such, workplaces need to provide single sex toilet facilities. The EHRC has provided interim guidance that organisations should continue to adhere to the Equality Act 2010 and ensure protection for all protected characteristics, including trans and non-binary people.
9 May 2025
Israel’s peace movement offers a ray of hope amid the pain of Gaza conflict
The first thing I do when going back to Israel for a visit is go for a run. After more than two years abroad, it is a good opportunity to refamiliarise myself with the home I left to pursue my academic career more than eight years ago.
9 May 2025
‘Forging Ahead’ initiative to transform innovation and entrepreneurship across the Midlands
A coalition of 15 Midlands university partners has launched a bold new initiative that is set to revolutionise how research and innovation are translated into real-world impact across the region.
9 May 2025
Staff: Check your my.HR details are up to date
Please check your details in myHR. Ensuring your personal details are accurate and up to date is vital for lots of reasons.
8 May 2025
Loughborough University funds local projects as part of the Community Donations Fund
The University held a celebration evening on Tuesday 6 May, awarding several organisations around Charnwood with funds to support their initiatives. The event was filled will celebration, networking, exchanging ideas, and sparking new collaborations for the future.
8 May 2025
Physicists use artificial intelligence to reveal how layered gases and metals melt
A team of physicists – including a Nobel Prize winner – has used artificial intelligence to uncover how layered materials melt and shift between physical states when confined to two dimensions.
8 May 2025
It costs £1,000-a-year to send your child to state primary school and £2,300 for secondary school - new report
New research reveals that families in the UK must now cover minimum annual education costs of over £1,000 for a primary school child and nearly £2,300 for a secondary school pupil – a sharp rise that far outpaces inflation and earnings growth since 2022.
7 May 2025
Support for staff and students distressed by the events in India and Pakistan
We understand that the recent events in Pakistan and India may be distressing for some members of our community, particularly those with family or friends in the region.
6 May 2025
“For ‘sugar tax’ to be truly effective, it must be part of a greater food reform” – expert calls for bigger changes within ‘overwhelmingly complex and often misleading food environment’
The government announced last week that they are consulting on proposals to extend the sugar tax that is currently applied to fizzy drinks, to include pre-packaged milk-based drinks, as well as non-dairy substitutes such as oat or rice milks.
6 May 2025
Staff Desktop Service: Use of macros in software tools
Macros in Office desktop apps (on Windows 11) can pose significant security risks. These scripts, often used to automate tasks in applications like Microsoft Excel or Word, can be exploited by attackers to access your data, device operating system or the wider University systems.
2 May 2025
The complex role of narcissism in entrepreneurial success (and failure) – new research
A new study has revealed that narcissism could play a beneficial role in early-stage entrepreneurship – however, it could also damage businesses and have a negative impact.
2 May 2025
UK Supreme Court Judgment: Update on practical implications for staff, students and members of the public
At Loughborough we recognise that the recent UK Supreme Court ruling, that in the Equality Act 2010 ‘sex’ means biological sex, will be having a significant impact.
2 May 2025
Mental Health Awareness Week 2025
Mental Health Awareness Week, 12-16 May, is being celebrated across campus, with the theme this year focusing on the power and importance of community.
2 May 2025
TEDxLoughborough University: Apply now to be a speaker or a member of the planning team
Loughborough Students’ Union is delighted to announce in October 2025, they will be hosting a TEDx event at the Loughborough campus.
1 May 2025
Public health expert offers guidance after baby food pouches found lacking in key nutrients
A new BBC Panorama investigation that aired early this week revealed that baby food pouches from six major UK brands – including four leading manufacturers and two supermarkets – are failing to meet key nutritional needs for babies and toddlers and are often high in sugar.
1 May 2025
Calling all students: Donate your unwanted items with Give ‘n’ Go
Give ‘n’ Go is a campaign run by the Sustainability team and Community Warden team at the end of the academic year as students begin to move out and leave Loughborough for the summer.
1 May 2025
Paddock Pitch: Conditions of use
As the weather warms up and more students start using the Paddock Pitch, we would like to remind everyone of the conditions of use to ensure a pleasant experience for all.
1 May 2025
This year’s Postgraduate Taught Experience Survey is now open
Every year eligible students are asked to complete the Postgraduate Taught Experience Survey (PTES) to provide valuable feedback on their experience at Loughborough.
1 May 2025
Vice-Chancellor’s Awards return to celebrate colleagues’ outstanding achievements
The nomination window for this year’s Vice-Chancellor’s Awards will be open throughout May 2025.
1 May 2025
Students: Have your say about physical activity and opportunities at Loughborough
Loughborough Sport is running the Students’ Active Lifestyles survey throughout May to understand how they can continue to improve the sport offering at the University.
30 April 2025
“The ‘Trump effect’ led Canadians to choose continuity over change, and technocracy over populism” – expert comments on why Canadians chose Liberal
After the Liberal party’s stunning political turnaround in the 2025 Canadian Election earlier this week, politics and international relations expert, Dr Chris Zebrowski, comments on what swayed the Canadian public towards government newcomer, Mark Carney.
30 April 2025
Why hasn’t the M&S cyber attack chaos been resolved yet? We asked a cyber security expert
More than a week has passed since Marks & Spencer (M&S), one of the UK’s most recognisable retailers, was hit by a major cyber attack.
29 April 2025
Opportunity for final-year Design and Creative Arts students to showcase your work
LU Arts are commissioning a series of video diaries that chart students' progress towards the 2025 Degree Show.
29 April 2025
Sports Technology students host workshop to inspire young women to explore careers in STEM
Earlier this month, Loughborough University students hosted a workshop at the AIG building in London to inspire young women to see how sports and engineering can intersect, particularly in the world of golf.
29 April 2025
Important information about Loughborough International Athletics
Loughborough University is proud to be hosting the Loughborough International Athletics (LIA) event on Sunday 18 May 2025.
28 April 2025
Severance: what the hit show can teach us about cybersecurity and human risk
What if your work self didn’t know about your personal life, and your home self had no idea what you did for a living? In Apple TV’s Severance, that’s exactly the deal: a surgical procedure splits the memories of employees into “innies” (who only exist at work) and “outies” (who never recall what they do from nine to five).
28 April 2025
Information about fraudulent activity
We are aware that some students have been contacted by fraudsters, impersonating members of University staff.
28 April 2025
Short stay parking at the Swimming Pool Car Park
Following a short stay parking pilot scheme at the Swimming Pool Car Park, a permanent short stay parking solution will be implemented from week commencing 28 April 2025.
28 April 2025
Loughborough University partner with Trash Free Trails to tackle pollution
Loughborough University is now a community hub for Trash Free Trails, a non-profit organisation with a mission to reconnect people with nature through the act of removing pollution from wild places.
25 April 2025
UKRI Policy Fellowships – information and Q&A session
The UKRI Policy Fellowships are an opportunity for researchers to undertake 18-month placements with policy host organisations to undertake specific research projects. There are 42 fellowship projects available across 31 host partners. The call formally opened on 22 April.
25 April 2025
Liz Monk to lead Loughborough Students’ Union as Chief Executive Officer
Loughborough Students' Union (LSU) is pleased to announce the appointment of Liz Monk as its new Chief Executive Officer.
24 April 2025
Richard Whitehead’s 100 marathon challenge – with a little help from Loughborough University (VIDEO)
For many, completing just one marathon in a lifetime is a huge achievement.
24 April 2025
Coming soon: Students’ Active Lifestyles survey
Loughborough Sport is running the Students’ Active Lifestyles survey throughout May to understand how they can continue to improve the sport offering at the University.
23 April 2025
How Pope Francis changed the Catholic Church’s foreign policy
When the late Pope Francis first stepped on to the balcony of Saint Peter’s Basilica following his election 12 years ago, he remarked that he had been called almost from the “end of the world”. He was the first non-European pontiff since Gregory III, elected in AD731, who was of Syrian origin. And he was the first pope in history to come from Latin America.
23 April 2025
Meet the team changing the world, for the better
Fairer. Greener. Faster. Better. Critical breakthroughs for a better world are what we do well at Loughborough University.
23 April 2025
Information about important faith-related dates, including religious festivals May – October 2025
Awareness of these dates and understanding in relation to their impact on members of these faith communities will help the University to create a safe, inclusive and welcoming environment for all our students and staff.
23 April 2025
Chief People Officer and Deputy Chief Operating Officer
Over the last 18 months we have seen an increased focus on our work in the People & Culture space, most recognisably through our work on Project Expectations, GLOW, leadership and staff engagement.
23 April 2025
Next steps in the strategic development of Loughborough University Science and Enterprise Park
On 12 February 2025, the University hosted a public consultation on the next major phase of the strategic development of Loughborough University Science and Enterprise Park (LUSEP), which is sited at the west end of the East Midlands campus.
23 April 2025
Your invite to the next General Assembly – May 2025
On Wednesday 21 May, all staff are invited to attend the third Termly General Assembly of the 2024/25 academic year.
17 April 2025
Loughborough scientist reveals secret to perfect bowling score
A Loughborough University scientist has revealed the best way to get a perfect score in tenpin bowling.
17 April 2025
Support for staff and students following the recent Supreme Court ruling
On 16 April 2025, the UK Supreme Court ruled that a woman is defined by their biological sex under the Equality Act 2010.
16 April 2025
Applications open for Associate Pro Vice-Chancellor - Research & Innovation roles
We are looking to appoint two Associate Pro Vice-Chancellors – Research & Innovation (0.5FTE each, job share will be considered) to lead the delivery of the R&I Core Plan.
16 April 2025
Upcoming wellbeing sessions for students
Student Services are running a variety of events throughout May to support your wellbeing. Topics covered include how to manage anxiety, the importance of self-care and techniques to improve your sleep.
16 April 2025
Coming soon: Postgraduate Research Experience Survey (PRES 2025)
The University wants to ensure Doctoral Researchers have the best possible experience while studying at Loughborough.
15 April 2025
Loughborough University’s Formula Student Team gears up with on-going support from Accu
Loughborough University’s Formula Student Team, LUMotorsport, is gearing up for its 22nd competitive year and is delighted to have Accu on board as a key supporter again.
14 April 2025
British Academy awards Global Innovation Fellowship to Loughborough researcher
Dr Robby Soetanto from Loughborough University has been awarded the ODA (Official Development Assistance) Global Innovation Fellowship by the British Academy.
11 April 2025
Don’t forget – it’s Better OFF this Easter
With utility prices rising rapidly, the University is consuming approximately £30,000 of electricity every weekday.
10 April 2025
Celebrate the launch of Loughborough University’s Sustainability Strategy
On Friday 9 May, the University is delighted to be formally launching its new Sustainability Strategy, and you’re invited to join us.
10 April 2025
Landlords and student tenants celebrated at Loughborough Studentpad Awards evening
To foster a stronger community and ensure students have a great off-campus student experience, Loughborough University’s Student Accommodation Centre recently hosted the first ever Loughborough Studentpad Awards and landlord information evening.
10 April 2025
Reminder: Don’t forget to take part in new safeguarding mandatory training
Last month, we informed colleagues of a new mandatory safeguarding training course that all staff are required to complete.
9 April 2025
Iran and US to enter high-stakes nuclear negotiations – hampered by a lack of trust
The announcement of planned talks between the US and Iran in Oman signifies a crucial development – especially given the history of distrust and animosity that has characterised their interactions.
9 April 2025
Loughborough Lightning and Element Passive Fire Protection enter new partnership
Loughborough Lightning Netball has announced Element Passive Fire Protection as its first matchday sponsor for the 2025 season.
9 April 2025
Deaf Loughborough student wins international competition to design hearing technology jewellery
Gargi Agrawalla, a final-year Product Design and Technology student at Loughborough University, has won an international competition to design jewellery for use with cochlear implants and hearing aids and raise vital funds for a UK-based charity supporting deaf children.
9 April 2025
Collaboration uses Loughborough’s vehicle aerodynamic knowledge to enhance Para sport performance
A collaborative project, led by academics at Loughborough University, is using expertise from the field of vehicle aerodynamics and wheelchair design to better support wheelchair racers taking part in the next Paralympics and beyond.
8 April 2025
How dentists could help tackle obesity in children
As a specialty registrar in paediatric dentistry, I’ve seen first-hand the pain children experience because of poor oral health. Tooth decay happens when teeth are damaged by acids produced by oral bacteria breaking down sugar from foods and drinks – and although it’s largely preventable – it’s the most common reason for hospital admission in children aged between five and nine in England.
8 April 2025
Neonatal Care Leave Policy
We are pleased to announce the introduction of Neonatal Care Leave Policy, effective from 6 April 2025.
7 April 2025
Graduate Artist’s 'Then Again' Exhibition
From 11 April - 2 May, 12pm-2pm (weekdays only) at Martin Hall Gallery, come along to see an exhibition by three Graduate Artists called ‘Then Again’.
7 April 2025
Loughborough lecturer awarded funding from Academy of Medical Sciences
Dr Amanda Pearce, a lecturer in the Department of Chemistry at Loughborough University, has been awarded funding by the Academy of Medical Sciences to tackle dementia, as part of its initiative to support early-career researchers.
7 April 2025
Take part in this year's Three Minute Thesis (3MT®) Competition!
The Enhanced Academic Practice team (Organisational Development) is excited to announce this year’s Three Minute Thesis (3MT®) competition for Doctoral Researchers.
4 April 2025
Parents' fear of maths linked to lower achievement in children – new research
Mathematics anxiety is a feeling of tension and fear when dealing with numbers or performing calculations. It is a common form of academic anxiety: according to an OECD report, around 40% of students feel nervous, helpless or anxious in everyday situations involving mathematics, such as solving problems or doing maths homework.
4 April 2025
Internal University Research Centre Managers’ Network
An internal network exists for research centre managers and relevant colleagues across the University, which as well as providing a supportive community, shares knowledge and best practice.
3 April 2025
Nominations are now open for Loughborough Students' Union Awards
Do you know a student, staff member or group that deserve to be celebrated? The Loughborough Students' Union Awards are now open for nominations.
3 April 2025
“Donald Trump fails to understand that America has prospered for 80 years because global trade agreements have facilitated US companies, to develop technologies and operate across the globe.”
After Donald Trump announced a new set of tariffs that sent economic shockwaves around the world, Dr Huw Edwards, an expert in international economic relations, and trade theory and policy, comments on how Donald Trump’s flawed understanding of economics is not going to make their country great again.
3 April 2025
Hit TV series Adolescence: “your child could receive these types of online messages. It's not out of the ordinary” – Loughborough University expert says (VIDEO)
The hit Netflix series, Adolescence, which delivers a hard-hitting storyline around a social media-fuelled killing and the influence of incel subculture, has highlighted the very real concerns children and young people face navigating the online world.
3 April 2025
Information about upcoming resurfacing works and temporary road closure of Epinal Way and Ashby Road roundabout
Please note that from Monday 14 April – Wednesday 16 April (8pm-6am), there will be planned resurfacing works and a temporary road closure of A6004 Epinal Way and A512 Ashby Road roundabout in Loughborough (weather permitting).
3 April 2025
Vitality confirmed as Lightning Netball official wellness partner
Loughborough Lightning Netball is delighted to announce health and life insurer, Vitality, as its official wellness partner for the 2025, 2026 and 2027 Netball Super League (NSL) seasons.
2 April 2025
New study aims to reveal the true costs of fixed-term contracts for early career researchers to help improve working conditions and broader research cultures in higher education
C-DICE, the UK’s largest postdoctoral researcher development programme - led by Loughborough University, has launched a new study to explore the wide-ranging impacts of researchers holding fixed-term positions, aiming to foster a supportive and dynamic research community.
2 April 2025
Joining the AI Conversation at Loughborough
At Loughborough, staff and students are exploring how to use AI responsibly and creatively. No matter your role or area of interest, there are opportunities to engage, exchange ideas, and explore how AI might support you.
2 April 2025
‘Rise of the Regions’ - a scenario in which countries respond to global trade tensions by retreating into localised production
Later today, Donald Trump is preparing to unveil sweeping tariffs, that analysts fear could push up prices and trigger a trade war. Dr Arman Mazhikeyev, a researcher in international trade, barriers to trade, and regional trade agreements, explains what the economic implications could be for these actions.
2 April 2025
Feedback sought on proposed new student accommodation development
The University has launched a public consultation on a proposed new student accommodation development on its Loughborough campus.
2 April 2025
Loughborough University academics participate in Royal Society Pairing Scheme
Two Loughborough University researchers were selected to participate in the Royal Society Pairing Scheme 2025. The scheme, which has been running since 2001, sees 30 research scientists paired with a UK MP, Peer or civil servant and gives participants the opportunity to learn about each other’s work by spending time together in Westminster and the researcher’s institution. The Scheme strengthens relationships between policymakers and scientists so that public policy decisions can be made with the best use of scientific evidence.
1 April 2025
Loughborough Professor made Fellow of the Academy of Social Sciences
Loughborough University’s Professor Caroline Kennedy-Pipe has been awarded a Fellowship by the Academy of Social Sciences.
1 April 2025
Four Loughborough University Technicians shortlisted for prestigious Papin Prize
Four Loughborough University technicians - three individuals and one team - have been shortlisted for an acclaimed Papin Prize, which recognises outstanding technical excellence and innovation in higher education and research.
31 March 2025
New clinic to enhance driver health promotion
The National Centre for Sport and Exercise Medicine East Midlands (NCSEM-EM) is delighted to announce a new service being offered in its facility. D4Drivers, the UK’s largest provider of driver medicals, will be offering these in clinic space in the NCSEM-EM building.
31 March 2025
Loughborough University celebrates first Global Young Academy Member
The University is delighted to announce that Senior Lecturer Dr Manuela Pacella from the Wolfson School of Mechanical, Electrical and Manufacturing Engineering has become the first member of our institution to join the prestigious Global Young Academy (GYA).
31 March 2025
Step into Health: Free health and wellbeing programme
The Step into Health programme at Loughborough College is a government funded health and wellbeing initiative designed to help adults aged 19+ improve their lifestyle, whilst achieving a qualification in the process.
28 March 2025
Energy bills and debt are rising yet again – here are three things that would help vulnerable households
Energy prices are rising faster than benefits, wages or pensions, meaning the amount that UK households owe to energy suppliers – their energy debt – is also likely to grow.
28 March 2025
Scientists uncover how microswimmers move faster in groups – paving the way for tiny drug-delivering robots
Scientists have revealed how tiny swimming cells – such as sperm and bacteria – are able to move faster when travelling as a group, and the research could accelerate the development of microscopic robots that deliver drugs to specific regions of the body.
28 March 2025
Implementation of a Loughborough ‘Real Living Wage’ Supplement
Loughborough University is an accredited ‘Real Living Wage’ Employer, which means each year it looks to agree and implement the Real Living Wage Hourly rate to provide a minimum level of pay for staff.
28 March 2025
“Speak English!” Has Donald Trump weaponised English by making it the official language of the United States?
President Trump’s recent executive order, Designating English as the Official Language of the United States, declares that "it is in America’s best interest for the Federal Government to designate one - and only one – official language.”
27 March 2025
“Disabled people are already financially disadvantaged – health-related benefits are essential to many that receive them" - Living standards expert explains the implications of planned welfare cuts
The government has now confirmed their plans, unveiled last week (18 March), to deliver £4.8 billion in savings by making changes to the welfare system. These changes are presented as the largest reform to the country’s welfare system for a generation.
27 March 2025
Loughborough named as one of the top UK universities for employee experience
Loughborough University is delighted to announce that it has been named one of the highest-ranking universities in the Inspire HE Rankings.
27 March 2025
Loughborough University selected as a UK Sport Social Impact Partner
Loughborough University has been announced as one of UK Sport’s first-ever Event Social Impact Partners with the aim of using major events to drive positive change.
27 March 2025
New AI model can measure weed growth – here's how it could help ensure global food security
A new AI model has been developed that can quickly tell how much weeds have grown – and it could help ensure global food security by accelerating the development of next generation herbicides.
27 March 2025
University Gardens team launch interactive woodland walk
Explore the beauty of Burleigh Wood with the new interactive audio walk created by the University Gardens team.
26 March 2025
“Technology wasn’t at fault - the human use of it was” – Cyber security expert explains how easily human mistakes can undermine even the best technical safeguards
The security leak involving some of America’s most senior officials and their military plans, shocked the world earlier this week.
25 March 2025
Student competition: Create an avatar for your chance to win £150!
As part of an upcoming event in May that aims to shape the future of education and student experience at Loughborough University, we’re looking for a talented student to produce an avatar or animation to showcase on the day.
24 March 2025
Deadline is approaching to nominate individuals for Honorary Awards
All members of the Loughborough University community can nominate exceptional individuals to receive either the University Medal or an Honorary Degree.
24 March 2025
Spring Staycation: Activities for students staying in Loughborough over Easter
Join us this Easter break for some fun activities here in Loughborough.
24 March 2025
Equality Impact Assessment Clinics: April
An Equality Impact Assessment (EIA) helps the University make sure our policies, procedures and practices do what they are intended to do and are inclusive for staff, students and visitors. They also enable us to provide an audit trail that we have met our legal obligations.
24 March 2025
Nomination Open for University Prizes
Each year, Loughborough University recognises outstanding students through a series of awards. These prizes celebrate academic excellence, community spirit and artistic achievement.
21 March 2025
Turkey: a favourable international climate is spurring Erdoğan’s crackdown on democracy
The Turkish judiciary has finally succeeded in sidelining Istanbul’s mayor, Ekrem İmamoğlu, at the fourth attempt. On the morning of March 19, the 53-year-old posted a video on social media announcing that police had arrived at his home to arrest him on charges of corruption, aiding a terrorist organisation and organised crime.
21 March 2025
The world’s first global thematic report on sport trafficking unveils critical insights into exploitation
Loughborough University, in partnership with Mission 89 and the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association UK Branch of the British Parliament, has released the first-ever comprehensive global thematic report on sport trafficking.
21 March 2025
Simpler Recycling Legislation: What it means for the University
From 31 March 2025, Simpler Recycling Legislation comes into force in England. This legislation has been brought in to increase recycling rates across England by standardising and simplifying what is collected across the country. It aims to remove recyclable material from general waste whilst reducing contamination in recycling bins.
21 March 2025
Our Values: More than just words on a page
At Loughborough our values mean more to us than just words on a page; we want them to be the guiding principles that shape our actions and decisions every day, helping to create a vibrant and inclusive culture where we can all thrive. This can only be achieved by us all embracing our values in all the ways we work.
20 March 2025
UK Disability Benefit Reforms
Given the government’s recent proposed reforms to disability benefits, we appreciate that this will be an anxious time for those in our community who rely on benefit payments to enable them to work and study, and for those that care for people relying on benefits for day-to-day living.
20 March 2025
Trailblazer of Football Association appointed as Loughborough University’s new Director of Sport
Louise Gear, the Head of Development at the Football Association (The FA), will be joining Loughborough University as its new Director of Sport.
20 March 2025
IGEM announces support for EnerHy Centre for Doctoral Training to advance green hydrogen technologies
The Institution of Gas Engineers & Managers (IGEM), the professional engineering institution has announced its support for EnerHy, the UK Research and Innovation Centre for Doctoral Training focused on making green hydrogen more affordable, scalable, and sustainable.
20 March 2025
Loughborough University delivers unforgettable BUCS Big Wednesday
Loughborough University played host to an unforgettable British Universities and Colleges Sport (BUCS) ‘Big Wednesday’, showcasing the very best of elite student sport across its renowned campus.
19 March 2025
Two Loughborough academics selected as members of the UK Young Academy
Loughborough University is proud to celebrate its third consecutive year of success with the UK Young Academy – an interdisciplinary network of early-career professionals and researchers working together to tackle pressing global and local challenges and promote lasting change.