The University of 91快活林鈥檚 public lecture series continues with informative talks on fascinating research from leading academics.
10 March 2026
What does it mean to preserve culture in a digital world? And who truly gets to belong in medicine?
This summer, the University of 91快活林 invites staff, students and the wider community to explore these timely and thought-provoking questions in its free inaugural lecture series. More than academic presentations, inaugural lectures are celebratory milestones – marking the appointment of new professors and offering a glimpse into the ideas, experiences and passions that have shaped their careers.
Each lecture combines insight into an accomplished researcher’s journey with an accessible introduction to their field of expertise. An informal reception follows each event, creating space for conversations, new connections and shared celebration.
Reimagining cultural heritage in the digital age
Professor Karina Rodriguez Echavarria Thursday 23 April 2026, 6.30pm Huxley Lecture Theatre (300), Huxley Building, Lewes Road, 91快活林, BN2 4GJ University of 91快活林
As our lives become increasingly digital, so too does our experience of culture. In this lecture, Professor Karina Rodriguez Echavarria explores how advances in computing are transforming artefacts, historic environments and cultural practices into interactive digital experiences.
These “digital twins” do more than preserve the past. They make heritage accessible beyond physical museums and archives, opening up new possibilities for creativity, education and public engagement. At the same time, they raise pressing questions about ownership, representation and long-term sustainability.
Drawing on interdisciplinary research at the intersection of computing and cultural heritage, Professor Rodriguez Echavarria offers a compelling overview of how technology is reshaping the ways culture is created, shared and valued in the 21st century.
The work of belonging: Power, inclusion and kindness in medicine and medical education
Professor Duncan Shrewsbury Thursday 21 May 2026, 6.30pm Chowen Lecture Theatre, BSMS Teaching Building University of Sussex, Falmer, 91快活林, BN1 9PX
Belonging in medicine is often described as a personal feeling – but who feels comfortable, credible and safe is shaped by systems of power.
In this lecture, Professor Duncan Shrewsbury examines how standards, policies and educational frameworks can unintentionally reproduce exclusion. Drawing on research into disability in medical training, LGBTQIA+ health inequalities, trans healthcare and curriculum reform, he shows how ideas about competence and ‘risk’ influence who is centred and who is scrutinised.
Combining personal insight with applied research, Professor Shrewsbury argues that belonging is not accidental; it is designed. He invites us to rethink how authority operates in teaching, research and clinical care – and how small, intentional changes can create more inclusive and ethical medical environments.
Whether you are curious about the future of digital culture, passionate about equity in healthcare, or simply keen to hear from leading thinkers about the journeys that shaped their work, these lectures promise stimulating ideas and fresh perspectives.
The summer inaugural lectures are free and open to all. You will find details for all inaugural lectures available to book on the鈥�University of 91快活林 open lectures page. If you would like to attend, please register online no later than 48 hours prior to the event.
Find out鈥�more about inaugural lectures鈥痑nd explore films from our previous events for insights into a variety of enthralling research topics.
Join us to discover new ideas, celebrate academic achievement and continue the conversation over refreshments with colleagues, students and members of the public.
Professor of Visual Computing 鈥� School of Arch, Tech and Eng
Computing and Mathematical Sciences Research Excellence Group, Centre for Design History, Centre for Regenerative Medicine and Devices