A landmark conference about Syriac Studies brought more than 70 researchers from 20 countries to Durham last month. The event was a hub for academic collaboration and knowledge sharing. It was also a formative experience for early-career scholars. Here, the organisers reflect on the key highlights of the conference and why there has recently been a major revival of academic interest in Syriac Studies.

It rained and it rained, and it rained, and then, to my astonishment and delight, it stopped. Let us hope it stays stopped. The new furniture in the Plaza and around the pond is designed for sitting at, not sheltering beneath. As you complete exams and assessments and begin to relax, I hope the weather will allow you to make full use of all the open spaces in College.

Following the success of last year’s inaugural Botanic Garden Fun Day, this has now become an annual event and will take place on Sunday 16 June, from 10am-4pm. This family-friendly, Fun Day offers loads of free activities, all in the beautiful surroundings of the Garden.

We’ve received a £1million donation towards a major scholarships programme helping students from low-income backgrounds in North East England to study at Durham.

A unique open-air service will be held in the atmospheric ruins of Bek’s chapel at Auckland Castle, the location of which has, up until recently, been a mystery since its destruction in the 1650s.

Our Vice-Chancellor Karen O'Brien explores how our global work benefits our local communities.

An international team of scientists led by Professor Paul Denny from our top-rated Biosciences and Chemistry departments has made significant strides in the fight against neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) such as leishmaniasis and Chagas disease.

Rachael Richards, Director of Public Affairs and Claire O’Malley, PVC Global, hosted a visit by local MP Paul Howell, to highlight the many ways the University contributes to the regional community beyond teaching and research. The visit focused on the role the University plays in community engagement, highlighting various outreach projects currently being undertaken to support schools, businesses and support groups .

Ahead of the publication by De Gruyter in 2024 of their handbook on Modern Languages, MLaC Professors Andy Byford and Claudia Nitschke have taken part in an interview titled ‘Modern Languages: Remapping a Shifting Landscape’.

Historic Cosin’s Library will be re-opening its doors to visitors on Wednesday 13 April. After being closed for several years, essential conservation work is now complete and the library and its collections are now more accessible and enjoyable than ever before.

Heading into autumn and starting a new academic year, means welcoming new and returning students and visitors, to view the exciting exhibitions across our attractions. From the Oriental Museum to Palace Green Library and even online, there are thought provoking, inter-active exhibitions to enjoy.

On March 11th 2024 Hazel Marzetti visited the Discovery Research Platform, and together with Veronica Heney facilitated a workshop exploring interpretation and creative methods.