School of Biodiversity, One Health & Veterinary Medicine

On Tuesday 21 April, the research community came together at the GUU for a full day of talks, discussion and networking. Around 170 colleagues attended, enjoying a varied and engaging programme.

The event featured presentations from MVLS Future Fellows Dr Tony Robertson and Dr Michael Stringer, three newly appointed SBOHVM lecturers, Professor Kate Stalin on the New Companion Animal Hub, and Professor Fredros Okumu on the use of AI in research, among many others.

The day also included productive and thought-provoking discussions on our research culture and social interactions. During breakout sessions, participants explored what we should continue, stop and start. Encouragingly, many groups highlighted positive aspects of the culture and events already in place.

During the breaks, attendees viewed the “Toast the Failure” slideshow, which shared rejection letters and personal anecdotes to highlight that success is rarely linear and that setbacks are a normal part of the journey.

Thank you to everyone who contributed—whether by presenting, organising or attending. The event offered an impressive snapshot of the breadth of research activity and the remarkable achievements across our community. As always, it was an excellent day.

 

 

 

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First published: 23 April 2026