january
Glass
Music rooms
Virgin dive
Enzyme
The discovery of an enzyme, Asparaginyl Endopeptidase (AEP), held out new hope for the increasing number of people suffering from major immune system disorders such as asthma, diabetes and multiple sclerosis. Professor Colin Watts and colleagues from the department of biochemistry discovered the enzyme that plays a major role in triggering immune responses. The ability to block the actions of AEP could prevent inappropriate immune responses, making it an ideal target for drugs. This breakthrough led to the collaboration between the scientists and pharmaceutical company Peptide Therapeutics Group plc whose specialist technology will enable the development of selective potent drugs.
Retired managing director of Caithness Glass, Alistair Mair was so captivated by his studies on the Modern Scottish History course being run by the University in association with the Open University that he launched the Caithness Glass Prize to be awarded to the best student of the year. He handed over the award to the first winner Julian Hodgson, a former student at the Royal Academy of Music.
A musical reception marked the opening of new music rooms in former student residences at Airlie Place. Mr Bob Seaton, University Secretary; Mr Russell Reid, Music Society patron; and Cathryn Malpass, Music Society president all gave speeches and guests enjoyed a programme of entertainment including a performance by the chamber choir and a couple of lively numbers from a jazz quintet. The new rooms provide much needed accommodation for the range of music groups on campus including the University Choir, Chamber Choir and the University Orchestra.
The University's new Freefall club spectacularly launched itself when 24 members took their virgin dives into the skies above Errol. President Bruce Lumsden was surprised at the popularity of the fledgling project which has quickly grown from nothing to being one of the biggest sports clubs in the University.
