12 January 2009

University of Dundee annual report 2007-08

A PDF version is available of the Annual Report 2007-08

The University of Dundee reports a good year in 2008 with research activity up by almost 20%, a wide range of merit awards for students and staff, high ratings on student satisfaction, a slew of new research awards, improved campus facilities and the University on a surer financial footing.

Launching the University’s Annual Report 2007-8, Principal and Vice Chancellor Sir Alan Langlands underlined the relevance of universities to society and the economy: 'Higher learning combines fundamental truths with the knowledge and skills required to help the professions, businesses and public services innovate and prosper. The understanding and insights provided by basic research are vital in tackling the big issues of our time including health, environmental and social problems and University research often leads to the development of new products and services.'

'At times of economic uncertainty higher education becomes more relevant than ever, offering opportunities not only for retraining and elevating skills but also for personal fulfilment through learning. For many the pursuit of learning is an inspiration and a route to fulfilment in its own right.'

He said the 2008 Annual Report demonstrated how the University of Dundee is contributing to the objectives of the Scottish Government and the wider community in growing and sharing wealth, improving health, expanding opportunities, enhancing the quality of life, improving the environment and contributing to the cultural development of Scotland.

The University’s income for 2007-08 was £191.4 million - up from £175.8 million in 2006-07 - with a bottom line surplus of £3.5 million. Over the last 18 months research awards of about £125 million have been secured underpinning a strong research programme for the future. Scottish Government funding accounts for some 40% of the University’s activity. Other major funders include the Wellcome Trust, the Medical Research Council and the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council.

The report also identifies a number of financial challenges for the future and emphasises the importance of continuing to balance growth and costs.

Student satisfaction has been high throughout the year, with students rating their experience positively in a range of national surveys including the National Student Survey which ranked Dundee 13th in the UK in response to the key question 'Overall I am satisfied with the quality of my course'. The results of the International Student Barometer also showed high levels of positive feedback from students placing Dundee 11th in the UK for overall satisfaction.

New teaching facilities in the Dalhousie Building, the extension to the library, IT developments, improved student accommodation and sports facilities have all added to the quality of life on the city campus. New cutting edge facilities for clinical research, imaging, translational research and medical technology have been developed at Ninewells.

The scores of individual awards for merit achieved over the year include a sheaf of national and international prizes to talented students. Most notable of these is final year computing student Suzanne Prior who took first prize in an major international competition for student research with her project which has developed a way to make computer-based instant messaging accessible to older people.

Hannah Whaley from the University’s learning Centre secured the title of Learning Technologist of the Year for her innovative contributions to elearning.

Three of Dundee’s most senior professors were among six to be selected for the UK’s most distinguished academic awards in 2008 - the Royal Medals - for outstanding international contributions in their fields. Professor Sir Philip Cohen received the Royal Medal from the Royal Society (London) and Professor Roger Fletcher and Professor Sir David Lane were awarded medals by the Royal Society of Edinburgh. All three medals recognise achievements which have brought benefits to humankind on an international scale.

'We are extremely proud of all our students and staff whose talent, hard work and inspiration have done so much to develop the University’s reputation and standing,' said Sir Alan. 'And the results of the Research Assessment Exercise, announced in mid December underline the University’s standing as a major player in a range of disciplines including civil engineering, art and design, computing, history, geography and law as well as the traditionally well recognised areas of medicine and life sciences where we continue to excel.'

The 2008 Annual Report is Sir Alan’s final report before leaving his post as Principal to become the Chief Executive of the Higher Education Funding Council for England.

For media enquiries contact:
Roddy Isles
Head, Press Office
University of Dundee
Nethergate Dundee, DD1 4HN
TEL: 01382 384910
E-MAIL: r.isles@dundee.ac.uk