University showcases its wealth of research expertise

Wednesday, 14 September 2011

The University is throwing open its doors to showcase the wealth of research within arts and humanities as part of a European-wide event.

Researchers' Night on Friday 23 September is held every year at universities and institutions across Europe, bringing together the public and researchers to celebrate research and show how it impacts on people's lives.

Reading is one of just three universities within the UK and its theme is 'Language, text and power' - one of its multi-disciplinary research strengths in arts and humanities.

During the day and evening there is a wide range of free events open to the public, in collaboration with the University's Museum of English Rural Life, Reading Museum and Reading Abbey. As well as a series of activities aimed at children, there are also exhibitions, workshops, seminars, talks, tours, demonstrations and film screenings on offer. The event culminates in a public forum debate in which panellists will discuss the value of maintaining a multiplicity of languages.

Professor Sue Walker, one of the organisers of the event, said: "On Researchers' Night we are showing some of the language, text and power research in a wide range of University departments. Anyone who wants to understand the problems of the past, the present and the future needs to look at language and this is why this research has particular relevance today.

"We are looking forward to welcoming visitors to the University and showing them how what we do affects their lives."

During the day, researchers will be available to talk about their experiences, and answer questions.

Details of all the events can be found on the Researchers' Night website. All events are free but booking is recommended for some.