Reflecting on a Year of Insight: Wrexham Talks Research Public Lecture Series 2024/25
As we prepare to launch the next season of the Wrexham Talks Research Public Lecture Series, it’s the perfect moment to reflect on the rich tapestry of ideas, stories, and discoveries shared over the past academic year. From climate science and artificial intelligence to therapy dogs and Victorian art exhibitions, our speakers brought their research to life in ways that inspired, challenged, and connected us.
Kicking Off with Healthcare Heroes
We began the year with a dynamic panel event, Healthcare Heroes: Tomorrow’s World, showcasing research that’s shaping the future of healthcare. Talks ranged from building resilience in occupational therapy students (Dr Liz Cade), to innovative staff development in biomedical science (Prof Stephen Fôn Hughes), and student-led learning tools in clinical education (Sara Oxbury-Ellis). Dr Chelsea Batty introduced a smart heart rate monitor for cardiac rehab, while Dr Mobayode Akinsolu and Nathan Roberts shared videos giving us a glimpse into transformative technologies.
Exploring Grit and Resilience
In December, Dr Julian Ayres took us on a personal and professional journey in Foxholes: Understanding Grit and Resilience. Drawing from his PhD research and passion for endurance running, Julian explored how resilience training can support trainee teachers — culminating in a new PGCE module that’s already improving retention.
Foxholes: Understanding Grit and Resilience Transcript
Paws, Pedagogy, and Wellbeing
January brought warmth and wagging tails with Dr Shubha Sreenivas’ lecture on Pawsome Support for Confident Reading in Children and Easing Stress for University Students. Her studies, involving therapy dogs in schools and universities, highlighted the emotional and educational benefits of canine companionship. Attendees even got to meet Osian, Barney, and the robotic pup Biscuit!
Art, Identity, and Local History
March saw Peter Bolton delve into the Wrexham Art Treasures Exhibition of 1876, revealing the cultural ambitions and social dynamics behind this historic event. His talk reminded us of the power of local history to shape collective identity and connect communities across generations.
AI and the Future of Business
In April, Dr Phoey Teh unpacked The Impact of AI on Business, tracing its evolution and exploring its applications across sectors. Her advice to “know what you get” when using AI resonated deeply in an age of digital misinformation.
Climate Change: Fact vs Fiction
We closed the series in May with Dr David Sprake’s compelling lecture, Climate Change Exposed. Tackling scepticism head-on, David examined the science behind climate shifts and the human role in today’s environmental challenges. Artistic reflections from Emma-Jayne Holmes added a creative layer to the evening.
Looking Ahead
As we turn the page to a new academic year, we’re excited to continue showcasing the incredible research happening at Wrexham University. Whether you’re a student, staff member, or member of the public, we invite you to join us in exploring ideas that matter — and in celebrating the people behind them.
Stay tuned for imminent announcements about our upcoming lectures. We can’t wait to welcome you back!
