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- Oxford News By Hana Edition 1
Oxford News By Hana Edition 1
Oxford Outlook: serious about science
Mark Skipworth
April 10, 2025
Oxford News by HANA - Edition 1
Oxford Outlook: serious about science
WHAT is your Oxford - “the city of dreaming spires” of Matthew Arnold, or do you prefer “the city of perspiring dreams” attributed, of course, to Oscar Wilde? Or what about “the city of screaming tyres,” the waggish phrase used by the late, great Jan Morris?
Everyone who has ever lived, worked, shopped or studied in this amazing university city has their own image of the place, more often than not a romantic fantasy. For me, as a student at Oxford more years ago than I’d like to recall, the university was a powerhouse of the liberal arts. The talented undergrads reading hugely over-subscribed subjects such as English, history or PPE turned up their noses at the science-based disciplines.
How times have changed! The arts are still popular, of course, but beyond the honeyed walls of its colleges, Oxford has embraced science - big time. Science and technology parks are springing up in every corner of the city, while Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, which grew out of the UK’s centre for atomic energy research, is just a short drive south along the A34.
In our first Oxford newsletter, a new report reveals that the university has once again topped the UK spin-out league, launching 225 companies in the past year, a growth of over 7%. The ranking system evaluates universities across the UK based on their success in creating business ventures, primarily in science and technology. We are particularly strong in life sciences, it seems, “with a world-class research base fuelling commercialisation”. In the pharmaceutical sector, the university has created 53 companies alone. I recommend the article. In Broken Britain, it’s good to hear we are world-class in one field at least.
According to the latest figures, there are more postgraduate students (13,650) than undergraduates (12,375) at Oxford. This revealing statistic suggests the ancient institution is re-balancing itself to emerge as a global centre for research along with its historic role as a centre of learning.
So, with Oxford’s changing face, surely a new phrase is required to describe it: “city of aspiring geeks”, perhaps?
Mark Skipworth | Oxford Editor
The Radcliffe Camera, with the University Church of St Mary the Virgin in the background
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Databox
Oxford is England’s greenest city, according to analysis of environmental data by ENDS Report.
Oxford has reduced its carbon emissions by 27% between 2005 and 2014, outperforming the national average in domestic and commercial sectors (Oxford City Council)
Oxford is the best university in the world in the Times Higher Education rankings - a record ninth consecutive year.
Scroll down for property news and more things to do in Oxford this weekend…
Hertford Bridge (AKA The Bridge of Sighs). Plus a (possibly illegally) parked van
Hyper-local news articles
University of Oxford tops UK spin-out league table again
Insidermedia - 8 Apr 2025
The University of Oxford has topped the UK spin-out league, launching 225 companies in the past year, a growth of over 7%. This achievement underscores its commitment to innovation and entrepreneurship, boosting both the local economy and the university’s reputation in technology transfer.
Oxford Tops UK for Student AI Searches EdTech Innovation Hub - April 4, 2025 A recent analysis by Delve AI reveals that Oxford leads the UK in demand for AI-based academic support tools, with significant regional differences in usage, while Cambridge lags notably behind. The findings highlight students’ concerns about content generation and plagiarism detection, underscoring the need for universities to establish clear policies promoting academic integrity alongside innovation. |
Sir Steve Redgrave calls for clean-up of River Thames ahead of Oxford-Cambridge boat race
LBC · April 9, 2025
Sir Steve Redgrave has called for an urgent clean-up of the River Thames ahead of the Oxford-Cambridge boat race, highlighting alarming water quality issues linked to raw sewage discharges. He urged water companies to prioritise infrastructure improvements over shareholder profits. Sir Steve stressed the health risks for rowers and other river users, demanding the government hold companies to account for maintaining safe waterways.
Oxfam GB puts 265 jobs at risk
BBC News · April 9, 2025
Oxfam GB has announced draft plans to lay off 265 of its 2,100 staff due to financial challenges from rising costs. The Oxford-based charity aims to save £10.2 million in annual salary expenses. Oxfam will consult with affected employees and trade unions as it navigates a tough cost cutting course.
History made as first child in UK born from womb transplant
Oxford Mail · April 8, 2025
Grace Davidson made history in 2023 as the first woman in the UK to receive a womb transplant from her sister, Amy Purdie, enabling her to give birth to baby Amy Isabel, bringing hope to women facing similar challenges. After nearly a decade of trying to start a family, Grace's journey highlights the groundbreaking advancements in reproductive medicine and the emotional bonds of family support.
Former Oxford 'golden boy' transplant surgeon's suspension extended BBC News - April 5, 2025 James Gilbert, a former transplant surgeon known as the "golden boy" of Oxford's transplant department, has had his suspension extended to a year after being found guilty of sexually harassing four female colleagues and making racist remarks. Despite the General Medical Council's push for a tougher penalty, Mr. Justice Calver noted procedural errors in Gilbert's earlier tribunal, leading to a maximum 12-month suspension instead of expulsion from the medical register. |
Celebrities are leaving the Cotswolds for three destinations Oxford Mail - April 8, 2025 The Cotswolds, famous for its scenic beauty and celebrity residents like Jeremy Clarkson and Victoria Beckham, are now facing competition from emerging hotspots dubbed the ‘Notswolds’ - including Northamptonshire and Bruton in Somerset. Explore these new trendy destinations that are capturing the attention of A-list celebrities and offering unique experiences beyond the traditional countryside allure. |
Emma Watson (Image: Abraham Caro Marin / PA)
Emma Watson 'drops out' of Oxford University degree Ledbury Reporter - April 8, 2025 Emma Watson has reportedly dropped out of her master's course in creative writing at the University of Oxford, despite advancing to a DPhil. The decision raises questions about her future academic pursuits and coincides with a noticeable absence from Oriel College, where her rumoured boyfriend studies. |
Oxford has one of the highest proportions of functioning CCTV cameras in the UK Yahoo News - April 5, 2025 A recent study by Get Licensed reveals that Oxford boasts a remarkable 97.7% operational rate for its CCTV cameras, making it one of the UK's top cities in camera functionality, though some areas still lack adequate surveillance. Despite this success, Shahzad Ali, CEO of Get Licensed, warns that several local authorities report over 50% of their cameras are non-functional. |
Will Pouget, owner of Vaults & Garden (picture: Oxford Mail)
Oxford cafe's High Court eviction hearing is delayed
Oxford Mail · April 8, 2025
Will Pouget, owner of the beloved Vaults & Garden cafe in Radcliffe Square, is contesting an eviction notice from the University Church's Parochial Church Council, with a High Court hearing postponed for four to six months. Celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, the cafe has received overwhelming community support, with over 15,400 signatures on a petition advocating for its continued presence.
St Aldate’s Post Office (picture Oxford Mail)
Oxford Post Office one of 108 in UK to be offloaded
Oxford Mail · April 8, 2025
The Post Office plans to transfer 108 crown branches, including the St Aldate’s location, to franchisees by the autumn, aiming to boost postmaster pay and raise £250 million by 2030. Critics warn this move resembles a covert privatisation effort that could undermine public trust and service quality.
Dog-whistle politics?
Local Elections 2025: Five things to watch in Oxfordshire
BBC News · April 4, 2025
Oxfordshire is gearing up for its potentially final county council election on May 1, as the government plans to replace the current local government structure by 2028. With an increase in councillors and heightened competition among parties, including a notable challenge from Reform UK, the outcome will be pivotal in shaping local policies and reflecting shifting voter sentiments.
Reform UK: Stephen Hartley suspended after pro-Jimmy Savile tweets
BBC News · April 4, 2025
Stephen Hartley, a Reform UK candidate for the Banbury Hardwick ward, has been suspended from the party after his past support for serial sex abuser Jimmy Savile surfaced, including calling him a "working class hero" and questioning the abuse allegations against him. Following this revelation, Reform UK promptly withdrew their support for Hartley's candidacy.
Police chief speaks out on spate of stabbings in Oxford
Oxford Mail · April 7, 2025
Thames Valley Police are investigating a series of stabbings in Blackbird Leys, Oxford, and have enacted a Section 60 stop and search order to enhance public safety amid rising knife crime. Community leaders urge residents to report any information to aid the investigations, emphasising the importance of unity in addressing violence.
Witney cinema issues Minecraft warning after online trend
BBC News · April 8, 2025
Cineworld in Witney has warned moviegoers about rowdy behaviour during screenings of A Minecraft Movie, stating that disruptive actions will result in removal without a refund. In response to the film's popularity and audience excitement, the cinema is offering special Chicken Jockey 4DX screenings for fans who want a more interactive experience while still respecting cinema etiquette.
Sport
Oxford United
Football can be – and usually is – cruel. Last Saturday saw The Yellows pull off a stunning 1-0 victory against high flying Sheffield United at the Kassam, thanks to Siriki Dembele’s 38th minute winner. So Wednesday’s visit by QPR should have been a walk in the park. Er, no. A humbling 1-3 defeat leaves United in 18th place in the Championship, just three points clear of the relegation zone with five games to play. Next up: a tough fixture against mid-table Sheffield Wednesday (Saturday 12 April, 3.00pm).
Property news
News | Brydell secures Investec financing for Oxford trio Costar - Investec Bank has partnered with Brydell Partners, a UK-focused real estate investment manager, to enhance its investment capabilities and pursue strategic opportunities in the competitive market. Oxford property assets are a key focus. |
Oxfordshire homelessness charity launches safe housing appeal Bbc - April 3, 2025 Homeless Oxfordshire is launching the “Her Way Home” appeal to enhance support for women experiencing homelessness by doubling women-only accommodation and providing round-the-clock assistance. This initiative aims to tackle the unique challenges faced by women, who are often more vulnerable to abuse and exploitation, ensuring their safety and a more effective path out of homelessness. |
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All photos are credited to Mark Skipworth unless otherwise specified.
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