Universities recognised in UK’s Best Breakthroughs list

Thursday 6 December 2018

pilot-whale-001

The global impact of research carried out at the Universities of Abertay, Dundee and St Andrews has been recognised in a list of the UK’s ‘100 best breakthroughs’ of the last century.

The University of St Andrews is highlighted for the work of the Scottish Oceans Institute, which has brought together over 300 staff to promote interdisciplinary marine research, ensuring Scotland remains at the forefront of marine science.

The University of Dundee is featured for its contribution to developing the flat screen technology that is in use in virtually every mobile phone, tablet and television.

Abertay University’s inclusion comes as a result of their internationally-renowned work in computer games, which saw the University launch the world’s first degrees in the discipline before pioneering collaborative new teaching methods and a diverse range of research projects.

The list of breakthroughs demonstrates how UK universities are at the forefront of some of the world’s most important discoveries, innovations and social initiatives.

It includes the discovery of penicillin, work tackling plastic pollution, ultrasound scans to check the health of unborn babies and the establishment of the Living Wage.

The list also highlights the less celebrated but vital breakthroughs that transform lives, including a specially-designed bra to help women undergoing radiotherapy; a toilet that flushes human waste without the need for water; the development of a new scrum technique to make rugby safer; a sports initiative that aims to use football to resolve conflict in divided communities; and even work to protect the quality of the chocolate we eat.

The list was compiled by Universities UK, the umbrella group for UK universities, as part of the MadeAtUni campaign to change public perceptions of universities and bring to life the difference they make to people, lives and communities across the UK.

It follows independent research undertaken by Britain Thinks which found that the public has little understanding of the benefits of universities beyond undergraduate teaching. The findings show that research is one of the key triggers to change opinion about universities but for many people, it is an abstract concept.

Professor Sir Pete Downes, Principal of the University of Dundee, said: “The UK’s Best Breakthroughs list highlights the huge impact our local universities have had, and are having, on society, here at home and around the world. We’re extremely proud of the work of our academics and difference they are making to people, lives and communities.”

Professor Nigel Seaton, Principal of Abertay University, said: “Universities make a vital contribution to our society, culturally, socially and economically. This list highlights the full breadth of that and the transformative impact it has.”

Professor Sally Mapstone, Principal of the University of St Andrews, said: “It says much for the strength of higher education in this one corner of Scotland that its three universities are recognised in this important list. Universities like St Andrews, Abertay and Dundee are hugely important engines of invention and drivers of social mobility, and it is not an exaggeration to say that the ideas and discoveries made here have changed and are continuing to change the lives of millions of people for the better.”

Professor Dame Janet Beer, President of Universities UK, said: “Universities really do transform lives. The technology we use every day, the medicines that save lives, the teachers who inspire, all come from UK universities and the important work being done by academics.

“The UK’s Best Breakthroughs list is a testament to the difference that universities make to people’s lives and we want everyone to join us in celebrating the work they do.”

The UK’s Best Breakthroughs list: 100+ Ways Universities Have Improved Everyday Life was put together in partnership with universities across the UK. As part of the MadeAtUni campaign, every university in the country was invited to nominate the one thing from their institution which they believe has had the biggest impact on people, lives and communities. Over 100 universities submitted a nomination. The entries cover health, technology, environment, family, community and culture, and sport.

You can find out more about the UK’s Best Breakthroughs and the MadeAtUni campaign online.


Category Awards

Related topics

Share this story