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Pioneering University of Leicester research to be showcased in Parliament

Posted on 03/03/2010
University of Leicester

Pioneering University of Leicester research to be showcased in Parliament

Research by the University of Leicester is to be showcased in Parliament at a forum for ground-breaking and frontier UK research and R&D.

Dr Jonathan Nichols, from the Radio and Space Plasma Physics Group in the Department of Physics and Astronomy is among a small number of researchers selected for the national SET for Britain event on March 8.

SET for BRITAIN aims to encourage, support and promote Britain's early-stage and early-career research scientists, engineers and technologists who are the "engine-room" of continued progress in, and development of, UK research and R&D, and ultimately of UK plc.

The event coincides with National Science and Engineering Week which is being celebrated at Leicester with a number of events.

Dr Nichols said: “I am delighted and honoured to be selected for this prestigious event that brings together people at the forefront of their work. This is a good opportunity to showcase some of our work in an important forum.”

Dr Nichols has led an international study to capture space images that are unique to science.

Using the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope (HST), researchers recently took advantage of the rare opportunity to record Saturn when its rings are edge-on, resulting in a unique movie featuring both of the giant planet’s poles.

Saturn is only in this position every 15 years and this prime orientation allowed a sustained study of both of its beautiful and dynamic aurorae that decorate its poles much like the northern and southern lights on our own planet.

Last year, Dr Nichols’ work, along with his colleagues, was selected as a highlight of the world’s present output of geophysical research by the Geophysical Research Letters, published by the American Geophysical Union.

As part of SET for Britain, researchers take part in a poster exhibition and judging session during the day, ending with a reception and prize-giving. Those selected represent the best in their field as part of a national competition for a prestigious Medal and substantial monetary prize. There will also be significant Runner-Up Prizes and/or Commendation Awards.

More information at:

http://www.vmine.net/setforbritain/