Reading in the news - Tue 28 Mar

Solar activity: expert comment on new images released by NASA

• Professor Mathew Owens (Meteorology) is quoted by , , , , , , , , and  on why we are entering a period of increased solar activity, and by  explaining a video released by NASA of a 'churning tornado' on the sun's surface.

India's heatwave: Dr Kieran Hunt (Meteorology) is quoted by , , , , , , , , , and others explaining the causes of heat stress as temperatures in India are predicted to rise in the coming weeks. Read our news story.

#PlanetPartners: working with global partners to protect the environment 

• Professor Bill Collins (Meteorology) is quoted by , , , and  on incorporating the impact of changing levels of aerosols into future models of climate change. 
•  reports that Professor Tom Oliver (Biological Sciences) contributed to a milestone report which found humanity must change its relationship with nature in order to protect it. The report also features Professor Ed Hawkins' (Meteorology) updated climate stripes. Read our news story.
•  reports that the art exhibit, the Gaia globe, will be exhibited in Reading following a collaboration between the University, Reading Borough Council, Reading Climate Change Partnership, and Reading BID. Read our news story.

COVID-19: expert comment on the pandemic

• Dr Simon Clarke (Biological Sciences) was interviewed by BBC Radio 4 on the impact that using hand sanitiser had during the pandemic. 

 #UniForReading: our role as a civic university  

• Greatest Hits Radio and Heart Radio Berkshire continued to report on the University's sanctuary scholarship scheme which offers funded places for sanctuary seekers wishing to continue their education in the UK. Read our news story.
• Molli Cleaver (Community Relations Officer) was interviewed by BBC Radio Berkshire on the University's plans to host a free family festival this May. Read our news story. 

Food and farming:

• Dr Caroline Harkness, (previously PhD student), is mentioned by  for leading a study on the benefits that growing a wider variety of produce has on the environment. 

Business and society:

•  mentions that Dr Rita Fontinha (Henley Business School) co-authored a report on the pilot of the four-day workweek as the second phase of the programme is announced.

Alumni:

•  reports on exhibition art that Henley Business School alumna, Mariapaola McGurk, has been commissioned to make. 
•  reports on the recent appointment of University alumnus, Sammy Wainaina, as the new advisor of the Archbishop of Canterbury.