Our annual festival to celebrate and share Sussex research has drawn to a close after two weeks of inspiring talks, workshops and events in June.  

We were delighted to have around 700 participants this year, with contributions from every faculty and several divisions, as well as a number of Centres of Excellence. The result was a programme of 25 events and three affiliated exhibitions, showcasing the rich diversity of our research. 

Researchers at all levels, students, Professional Services staff, alumni and members of the public were welcomed to attend, and campus was buzzing with the anticipation of a heatwave and the excitement of exploring new ideas and connecting with others. 

Sussex AI, Quantum, the Drug Discovery Centre and the Sussex Humanities Lab offered ever-popular glimpses into their groundbreaking work, while topical discussion events took place at the forefront of the Open Research movement, including the Library’s Open and IP debate, and Sussex Neurosciences’ Widening Access to Biomedical Technology in the Global South. 

Opportunities for interdisciplinary conversations were abundant at events such as Food For Thought and The Value of Life Laid Bare During and After Conflict, with our academic organisers working to break down silos and encourage collaborative thinking around different themes.  

The festival also featured special editions of ongoing event series at Sussex, such as Why We Should All Speak for Palestine!, The PUG Talks, Dancing Belonging and the Three-Minute Thesis, bringing these firm favourites to new audiences and proudly amplifying their ideas. 

Professor Debbie Keeling, Deputy Pro-Vice Chancellor for Knowledge Exchange said:

'The Summer of Research is a real highlight in our calendar. Not only for the breadth and depth of scholarship it showcases, but for the conversations it sparks across disciplines, communities and career stages. In a year where the HE sector has faced real financial pressures, it was especially heartening to see such a strong spirit of curiosity and collaboration. This year’s programme truly captured what makes Sussex research and innovation distinctive, and it was a privilege to see so many colleagues and partners come together to share knowledge, challenge ideas and build new connections. My sincere thanks to everyone who contributed.'

VIEW THE GALLERY OF HIGHLIGHT IMAGES HERE.