The Open University is pleased to announce the annual series of inaugural professorial lectures for 2019-20.
All new professors are given the opportunity to give an inaugural lecture.
The series provides an opportunity to celebrate these achievements with each lecture representing a significant milestone in an academic's career. This year, there is a particular emphasis on the University’s 50th anniversary.
The normal format is for a lecture of approximately an hour, followed by a celebratory wine reception.
Lectures are open to all University staff and students as well as to members of the public. Please see below for upcoming lectures and for details of how to obtain a ticket. All lectures will be livestreamed and links will be added closer to each event.
Forthcoming lectures
Back from the future, forward from the past: The journey that is lifelong learning
15:00 - 16:00
What the concept of lifelong learning initiated by the OU in 1969 means now for the future of universities.
Aspects of Open: The evolution of the meaning of open education
18:00 - 19:00
What does ‘open’ mean? If we were to invent an ‘Open University’ now, what would it look like?
Menopause and the workplace
15:30 - 16:30
It is very apt for Professor Jo Brewis to deliver her inaugural lecture in the week of International Women’s Day on a topic which is often regarded as taboo in wider society and in the workplace in particular.
'Fairness in knowing': How should we engage with the sciences?
18:00 - 19:00
Science has the power to influence our lives. This lecture with Professor Richard Holliman questions and explores how Science should be governed, represented and funded.
Youth crime and justice: Does age matter?
18:00 - 19:00
As The Open University celebrates its 50th anniversary, Jo Phoenix, Professor of Criminology, will deliver her inaugural lecture on youth crime and justice.
If school is the problem, what is the solution?
18:00 - 19:00
Discussing fundamental problems in the current education system, Professor Peter Twining explores elements of a system that is more fit for purpose.
Sniffing out disease - why we need a dog in a box
18:00 - 19:00
Discover the latest research in ‘sniffing out’ volatile compounds produced by ‘the disease state’.
