Main stories

Unravelling the language instinct
Dr Diane Nelson is using eye-tracking laser technology to test whether the language abilities of children with a rare congenital condition known as Williams syndrome.

Secret habits of entrepreneurs
We’re all familiar with the names of some of Britain’s greatest entrepreneurs, such as Virgin mogul Sir Richard Branson or investment tycoon Sir Alan Sugar. But could you spot a successful business pioneer just by looking at how they move their arms?

America's war on the law
The weight of great expectations is bearing down on US president-elect Barack Obama while the world waits anxiously to see what direction America’s foreign policy will take next.

Switched on to renewable energy
The challenge of meeting Britain’s future energy needs will be tackled by 50 young engineers and scientists based in a new doctoral training centre at Leeds, which has won £6.5 million of funding from EPSRC.

New operatic heart sets pulse racing
A stunning new cultural landmark, opening on 16 January 2009, will provide a permanent home for Opera North for the first time in its 30-year history.

Around the world with Miliband
Foreign secretary David Miliband, 43, appeared relaxed as he was quizzed by more than 400 staff and students from the universities of Leeds and Bradford.

Staff leave lasting legacy
This month we bring you news of three members of staff who have generously decided to leave legacies to the University of Leeds for the benefit of future students.

Our parched planet
Dr Alan Grainger (School of Geography) has been asked by the United Nations’ Committee on Science and Technology to provide a blueprint for undertaking the first ever empirical global survey of desertification.

Terrorism expert
Professor Clive Walker (School of Law) was described as “the leading academic authority on terrorism” by Lord Lloyd of Berwick during a debate in the House of Lords.

Fresh look for Library
Following a £750,000 refurbishment over summer, many staff and students have welcomed the reopening of the Health Sciences Library.

Simply sublime
The Stanley and Audrey Burton Gallery is launching 2009 with a ‘homecoming’ exhibition of new black and white abstract paintings by internationally acclaimed Leeds-born artist Trevor Bell.

New Student Services centre unveiled
The new Student Services Centre in the Marjorie and Arnold Ziff Building will formally open for business on 5 January, 2009.

Nuffield celebrates
A stunning performance by Zulu dancers and musicians was part of a one-day celebration held on 3 October to mark the 30th anniversary of the Nuffield Centre for International Health and Development.

Leader column
Vice-Chancellor Professor Michael Arthur talks about the financial difficulties facing many universities at this time, and the upcoming research assessment exercise.

FAQs
Sophie Hodges talks about her intrepid past working in the tourism industry for 13 years, dealing with tourists arrested on holiday, and arranging a marriage for a couple dressed as space invaders!

In the News
A roundup of news items from national and international media featuring research achievements by our staff, or giving expert opinion on topical events.

Our people
New chair appointments at Leeds.

Honours
Honours from around the University.

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