iiinova — where your digital self keeps evolving

University of Sussex @sussex.ac.uk · 14/10/2026

🤖 Can AI really feel pain? New research suggests some AI models behave as though they can, but does that mean they experience anything? Sussex neuroscientist Professor Anil Seth offers his perspective in Science Magazine. 🔗 Read more: ow.ly/FOAu50ZWT12

Abstract illustration of a human-like face made up of fragmented geometric shapes in red, black, white and grey, with angular pieces appearing to break away from the head against a light grey background.

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University of Sussex @sussex.ac.uk · 13/10/2026

⚛️ Could record investment create a ‘Quantum Silicon Valley’ in Sussex? 💜 What makes someone a mother? Discover these stories and more in the latest edition of Research at Sussex. 📩 Subscribe here: ow.ly/11El50UOFZB

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University of Sussex @sussex.ac.uk · 09/10/2026

🚀 University of Sussex spin-out Universal Quantum has won a record-breaking $100m investment! This will accelerate the development of powerful quantum computers and enable what started as an academic vision to keep growing across three continents. www.sussex.ac.uk/news/research?id=7…

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University of Sussex @sussex.ac.uk · 08/10/2026

🌱 Can plants be conscious? Sussex neuroscientist Professor Anil Seth joined BBC Radio 4’s Naturebang to discuss the mystery of consciousness and whether it could extend to plants. 🎧 Listen on BBC Sounds: www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m002vxdd

A small green seedling with two leaves growing from a bed of moss, against a softly blurred green background.

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University of Sussex @sussex.ac.uk · 05/10/2026

🤖 Could AI develop into a new “silicon species”, and what could that mean for humans? Sussex Professor Thomas Nowotny spoke to BBC Radio Scotland about the idea of increasingly advanced AI competing with humans. 🎧 Listen from 17:30: www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m0031hc6

Professor Thomas Nowotny gestures with both hands while speaking in front of a large blue image of a human brain projected on a screen.

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University of Sussex @sussex.ac.uk · 02/10/2026

🌳 Lewes recently became the first town in England to recognise the rights of all trees. The landmark Tree Charter was guided by a toolkit developed by Sussex's Dr Joanna Smallwood and students from the Environmental Justice Law Clinic. 📺 Joanna spoke to ITV Meridian: ow.ly/ABLU50ZTtFV

Dr Joanna Smallwood, Associate Professor of Law at the University of Sussex, speaking to ITV News on the Sussex campus, with trees and the Social Impact Coffee café in the background.

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University of Sussex @sussex.ac.uk · 01/10/2026

🦍 What can gesturing gorillas and babbling babies tell us about the origins of human language? Professor Gillian Forrester joins Jim Al-Khalili on BBC Radio 4’s The Life Scientific to explore what great apes and human development can teach us. 🎧 Listen on BBC Sound: ow.ly/pz8Q50ZT7NM

Professor Gillian Forrester crouching beside two gorillas behind a wire enclosure, with trees and greenery in the background.

Professor Gillian Forrester standing outside BBC Broadcasting House in London, beneath the large BBC sign.

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University of Sussex @sussex.ac.uk · 29/09/2026

🚀 What role will Sussex play in a new NASA mission? 🌳 Could giving trees rights change how we protect them? 📜 How did lost medieval manuscript pages resurface in Brighton? 🧪 Why is a Nobel Prize-winning discovery still shaping science today? 📩 Subscribe to find out: ow.ly/11El50UOFZB

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University of Sussex @sussex.ac.uk · 28/09/2026

Congratulations to Sussex Professor Emily Robinson, winner of The Conversation Prize for Writers 2026 for her work on Ravenser Odd, a medieval island lost beneath the sea. Her research explores why its story continues to fascinate and be retold centuries later. Read: ow.ly/cxJg50ZQU6Y

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University of Sussex @sussex.ac.uk · 15/09/2026

⚛️ What could inspire the next generation of scientists? 🧪 How could data science help promising medicines progress more efficiently? Find out in the next edition of Research at Sussex, your regular dose of brilliant ideas and breakthroughs. 📩 Subscribe today: ow.ly/Tr0E50Z24qB

Purple-lit quantum computing equipment in a laboratory, with metal components, wiring and vacuum-chamber apparatus.

Two scientists in white lab coats work at benches in a bright pharmaceutical laboratory.

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University of Sussex @sussex.ac.uk · 07/09/2026

Why can it sometimes feel easier to open up to a stranger? Sussex psychologist Dr Gillian Sandstrom spoke to BBC Radio 4 about the value of talking to strangers and how psychological distance can make difficult conversations easier. Listen: www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m0030c74

Two people sit talking on public transport, while another passenger stands nearby.

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University of Sussex @sussex.ac.uk · 02/09/2026

🔹 What can a decades-old monsoon puzzle tell us about risks to fishing communities? 🔹 Why is August such a difficult month for honeybees? Find out in the next Research at Sussex, your regular dose of brilliant ideas and breakthroughs from Sussex Uni. 📩 Subscribe today: ow.ly/Tr0E50Z24qB

A person in a small wooden fishing boat on calm water, with a large industrial ship and port infrastructure in the background.

Close-up of a honeybee feeding on pale pink bramble flowers against a blurred green background.

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University of Sussex @sussex.ac.uk · 27/08/2026

How can communities help shape a fairer food future? Sussex research is putting local voices at the heart of food policy in Brighton & Hove. 🔗 Read the feature: ow.ly/zjlm50ZFEUF 📣 Live in Brighton & Hove? Share your views on recent local food policy changes: ow.ly/EARe50ZFEUG

Dr Katerina Psarikidou pictured alongside the quote: “Co-producing policies for and with communities experiencing food inequalities is key for transforming the UK's food system in more sustainable and healthy directions for all.” She is Assistant Professor in the Science Policy Research Unit at the University of Sussex.

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University of Sussex @sussex.ac.uk · 18/08/2026

🔹 Why do we experience the same world differently? Read more about the research exploring this question in the next Research at Sussex, our fortnightly round-up of the latest research and innovation from the University of Sussex. 📩 Subscribe today: ow.ly/Tr0E50Z24qB

Six people recline with their eyes closed around the edge of a circular Dreamachine installation, beneath a large glowing pink light.

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University of Sussex @sussex.ac.uk · 11/08/2026

Eating less meat may be easier with the right social support 🌱 New Sussex-led research found people were more likely to have meat-free days if they didn’t live with regular meat-eaters – highlighting the role of our social environment. 🔗 Read more about the research: ow.ly/J7Ij50Zyrco

Wooden plate filled with assorted grilled vegetables including zucchini slices, cherry tomatoes on the vine, bell peppers, and eggplant halves.

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University of Sussex @sussex.ac.uk · 07/08/2026

How can communications professionals make confident, informed decisions about AI? Sussex and Magenta Associates have created a new online short course exploring AI literacy through the latest research and its practical application at work. 📅 15–16 September Book here: ow.ly/pBS850Zx226

Graphic promoting online Artificial Intelligence Literacy for Communicators training for senior public relations, marketing and communications professionals. A testimonial from Andy Grant of Elior United Kingdom praises the insights, activities and demonstrations. The course runs online on 15 and 16 September 2026, from 10am to 2.30pm daily. Includes a photo of people working around a laptop and the Magenta and University of Sussex logos.

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University of Sussex @sussex.ac.uk · 28/07/2026

🧠 Why can global crises be harder for our brains to process? 🏅 Which Sussex psychologist has been elected a Fellow of the British Academy? 🌱 What does it really take to build a life on the land? Find out in the next Research at Sussex. 📩 Subscribe today: ow.ly/Tr0E50Z24qB

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University of Sussex @sussex.ac.uk · 28/07/2026

🧠 University of Sussex researchers found our brains become less responsive as the number of lives at risk grows, especially when disasters happen overseas. The findings could help improve how global crises are communicated. doi.org/10.1093/scan/nsag049

Brain scan highlighting regions affected by lives lost in the home country compared to those in foreign countries

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University of Sussex @sussex.ac.uk · 13/07/2026

It's Bees’ Needs Week 🐝 We’re spotlighting Sussex research helping people take action for bees and other vital pollinators. Prof Dave Goulson’s work explores insect decline, pesticide harm and how citizen science can support biodiversity. Find out more: ow.ly/ouqR50YvQ87

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University of Sussex @sussex.ac.uk · 10/07/2026

Researchers at the University of Sussex are exploring how animals may experience time differently from humans. Researchers propose that perception and experience of the world is chunked differently in time by each animal in species-specific 'timescapes'. Read more: ow.ly/iZQY50Zl34f

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University of Sussex @sussex.ac.uk · 09/07/2026

Students have spoken. Sussex has improved across all seven NSS categories. ✨ 95% agreed teaching staff are good at explaining things ✨ 93% said library resources support their learning ✨ Top 10 for course organisation Thank you to all who shared their views. Read more: ow.ly/l9R150ZlVTb

Three students smiling and discussing notes together in a bright classroom setting.

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University of Sussex @sussex.ac.uk · 08/07/2026

Is plastic hiding in your pet’s food? 🐾 A Sussex-led study found microplastics in over 75% of pet foods tested. Supported by the British Hedgehog Preservation Society, the study suggests pet food and droppings could spread plastic pollution through ecosystems. Read more: ow.ly/CZ1j50Zjj6K

Two cats and a black dog eat from separate bowls on a wooden floor against a plain beige background.

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University of Sussex @sussex.ac.uk · 06/07/2026

Why do gulls steal your chips — and how can you defend your dinner? 🍟 Professor Paul Graham joined BBC Radio 4’s Unexpected Elements to explain the science behind seaside snack theft. Listen here: ow.ly/UZkm50ZjgmT

A person stands on a seaside promenade surrounded by gulls, with several flying overhead and others gathered on the ground nearby. The beach and sea are visible in the background under a cloudy sky.

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University of Sussex @sussex.ac.uk · 02/07/2026

"Maggie Boden was asking all the right questions about AI back in the 70s" Professor Jacqueline O'Reilly, Professor Anil Seth & PhD candidate Trevor Hewitt, who won the scholarship set up in Professor Margaret Boden OBE's name, share how her pioneering legacy on AI is continued at Sussex today.

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University of Sussex @sussex.ac.uk · 30/06/2026

🐾 Is plastic hiding in your pet’s food? 🌍 How can the UK rebuild trade with Europe 10 years after Brexit? Find out in the next Research at Sussex. 📩 Subscribe today: ow.ly/Tr0E50Z24qB

A golden retriever and grey-and-white cat lie on the floor facing each other across an empty pet food bowl.

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University of Sussex @sussex.ac.uk · 26/06/2026

Can AI systems be treated as people? Professor Anil Seth discussed AI and personhood on BBC Radio 4’s Today programme, following reports that Argentina’s president is considering allowing AI systems to form and run companies. Listen from 2hrs 43mins: ow.ly/slS850ZcNKF

Professor Anil Seth stands indoors with his arms crossed, wearing a blue jacket and smiling at the camera. The background is softly blurred, with tall vertical architectural features behind him.

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University of Sussex @sussex.ac.uk · 26/06/2026

Congratulations to Professor John Spencer, who has won the Royal Society of Chemistry’s 2026 Bader Prize for Organic Chemistry in recognition of his pioneering work in accelerating drug discovery. Read more: ow.ly/3Xp750ZhvzK #RSCPrizes

Professor John Spencer
Bader Prize for Organic Chemistry
University of Sussex

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University of Sussex @sussex.ac.uk · 26/06/2026

Today marks the last day of our Summer of Research - our annual festival of events to share and celebrate the work of our research community. 💡 It's not too late to book your place: www.sussex.ac.uk/research/about/fes…

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University of Sussex @sussex.ac.uk · 26/06/2026

Breaking down barriers between the public and science 🧪 A few weeks ago, Soapbox Science returned to Brighton seafront, bringing women and non-binary researchers into public spaces to share their latest discoveries with local communities. #WednesdayWisdom #SoapboxScience

Dilini Pasqual demonstrates a robotic hand to visitors at a Soapbox Science event.

A crowd gathers on Brighton seafront to watch a Soapbox Science presentation. Researchers stand beside colourful display boards, with the University of Sussex gazebo and seafront buildings in the background.

A Soapbox Science researcher in a lab coat talks with a child seated on a stool during an outdoor science activity on Brighton seafront. Other researchers, visitors and display boards are visible in the background.

A Soapbox Science researcher in a lab coat and pink hat presents to an audience on Brighton seafront, holding up a sheet of images. A blue University of Sussex gazebo is visible behind her.

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University of Sussex @sussex.ac.uk · 25/06/2026

We’ve been ranked 38th in the world and 7th in the UK for Climate Action. This position recognises our world-leading research into climate change and climate stress mitigation across the world, and our local education programmes like our Summer of Research. ow.ly/XIVM50Zh9Sq

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University of Sussex @sussex.ac.uk · 25/06/2026

We’ve been ranked 33rd in the world and 17th in the UK for Responsible Consumption and Production in the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings 2026. Find out more: www.timeshighereducation.com/impact…

students walk on campus, text reads: '33rd in the world for Responsible Consumption and Production'

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University of Sussex @sussex.ac.uk · 25/06/2026

How might modern Britain look different when colonial histories are placed at the centre of the story? Professor Gurminder Bhambra joined BBC Radio 4’s Thinking Allowed to discuss empire, knowledge, migration and inequality. Listen here: ow.ly/8g3h50ZcO4H

Professor Gurminder Bhambra smiles at the camera in front of bookshelves. She is wearing glasses, a mustard yellow top and a patterned scarf.

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University of Sussex @sussex.ac.uk · 24/06/2026

We’ve been ranked 1st in the UK and 6th in the world for Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions in the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings 2026. The rankings measure universities based on progress towards the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals: ow.ly/o4Ip50ZgfPX

students smile in a lecture theatre, text reads: '1st in the UK 6th in the world for Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions'

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University of Sussex @sussex.ac.uk · 19/06/2026

How can we keep young people safer online? 📲 As the UK Government announces plans for a social media ban, Sussex researchers are exploring how young people encounter risk online – from digital design and gaming platforms to harmful online cultures. Read more: ow.ly/7qMQ50ZcJsN

A young child lying on a sofa in a dark room, looking at a smartphone illuminated by blue screen light.

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University of Sussex @sussex.ac.uk · 19/06/2026

We’ve been ranked 86th in the world for sustainability in the QS World University Rankings 2027. Sustainability is one of the three transformational themes in our Strategy 2035, guiding our ambition to become one of the world’s most sustainable universities. More: ow.ly/k7Jy50ZezpS

students walk on campus, text reads: '86th in the world for Sustainability'

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University of Sussex @sussex.ac.uk · 18/06/2026

We’ve been ranked 15th in the UK for Employment Outcomes in the QS World University Rankings 2027! From internships and consultancy projects to placement years and our award-winning Career Lab, Sussex students gain real-world experience. Read more: ow.ly/JLwe50ZeeL8

A student speaks to a tutor. Text reads: '15th in the UK for Employment Outcomes'

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University of Sussex @sussex.ac.uk · 18/06/2026

Today the University has been ranked 32nd in the UK in the QS World University Rankings 2027, a rise from last year. Find out more: ow.ly/5B7Y50Ze6p0

two students smile on Brighton pier, text reads: '32nd in the UK
QS World University Rankings 2027'

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University of Sussex @sussex.ac.uk · 17/06/2026

Is Starmer's social media ban the best way to keep children safe? 📱 Our expert, Dr Liam Berriman, Associate Professor in Childhood and Youth Studies, reacts. #SocialMedia

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University of Sussex @sussex.ac.uk · 16/06/2026

🌲 Could biodiversity loss trigger a wave of debt crises? 📲 How can we make online spaces safer for young people? Find out in the next Research at Sussex. 📩 Subscribe today: ow.ly/Tr0E50Z24qB

Aerial view of a partially cleared rainforest, with felled logs and exposed earth beside dense green trees and mist-covered forest.

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University of Sussex @sussex.ac.uk · 15/06/2026

As Paddington: The Musical extends its West End run to 2028, Sussex researchers are helping to protect the real-life bear behind the beloved character. Working with Andean communities in Ecuador to support conservation that benefits both bears and people. Read more: ow.ly/vrvo50Z9T2v

Three Andean bears, including two cubs, resting on a large tree branch in a green forest.

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University of Sussex @sussex.ac.uk · 12/06/2026

Could AI ever be conscious? Prof Anil Seth discussed the science of consciousness in @scientificamerican.bsky.social exploring whether AI could be “alive” and whether consciousness may have roots deep within the ancient brain. Read more: ow.ly/YBAR50Z9WwF

A glowing digital illustration of a human brain surrounded by connected molecule-like structures, suggesting neuroscience, consciousness and artificial intelligence.

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University of Sussex @sussex.ac.uk · 04/06/2026

𝗕𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝗼𝗻 𝗙𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗮𝗹 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲 – 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁’𝘀 𝗮 𝘄𝗿𝗮𝗽 As Higher Education Partner, our Festival of Ideas (led by Media, Arts & Humanities) brought Sussex research to life through creative conversations on future food production, AI and the arts, personal storytelling and queer archives. Photo 2: Chenying Cannell

People look through printed materials at a hands-on Queering the Archive workshop. One participant smiles while reading a booklet, while others browse papers and zines around a table.

Hands cut thread during a creative textile workshop. Fabric banners, embroidery thread, scissors and pens are spread across the table, including one banner with the words “NO MORE”.

A participant speaks into a microphone during a group discussion on AI and the arts, while others seated around the table and in the audience listen.

Participants sit around tables during a Planting Seeds workshop, drawing and discussing ideas together. A facilitator stands in the centre, guiding the group activity.

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University of Sussex @sussex.ac.uk · 03/06/2026

The University of Sussex has been ranked 4th in the UK for Childhood and Youth Studies by the Complete University Guide 2027. This is alongside two other subjects in the top ten: 4th for American Studies and 7th for Education. Read more: ow.ly/wnqz50Z705L

a tutor speaks to a student in a seminar; text reads: 4th
in the UK for Childhood and Youth Studies

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University of Sussex @sussex.ac.uk · 02/06/2026

The University of Sussex has risen seven places to 36th in the UK, and two places to fourth in the South East in The Complete University Guide 2027! Find out more: ow.ly/UiFk50Z6IaU

Students walk on campus; text reads: 36th in the UK
Complete University Guide 2027

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University of Sussex @sussex.ac.uk · 27/05/2026

Soapbox Science returns to Brighton seafront! 🧪🌊 Celebrating the work of women and non-binary scientists, 12 researchers will share their latest discoveries with beachgoers - head to the seafront from 11am on Saturday 30 May. Find out more: ow.ly/4GRO50Z4IRR

University of Sussex researcher, Dr Rhiannon Mae Armitage talks to beachgoers about her work into how we taste.

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University of Sussex @sussex.ac.uk · 27/05/2026

How did the Universe begin? ✨🌌 This #WednesdayWisdom, discover how Sussex astronomers are using the James Webb Space Telescope to search for some of the oldest stars and explore the “first light” of the Universe. Learn more: ow.ly/ksMf50Z345S James Webb Space Telescope Discoveries Tracker

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University of Sussex @sussex.ac.uk · 20/05/2026

Sussex researchers featured on BBC Morning live to show how listening to gardens and wild habitats - including underwater and underground - can help us learn about the communities of species that live there, get to know them and help them thrive. 📺 Watch from 59:30: ow.ly/69nU50Z2frp

chris sits on a bench with bb presenter ben whilst a cameraman films

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University of Sussex @sussex.ac.uk · 20/05/2026

🔹 Why is collecting pollen so exhausting for bees? 🔹 Could babies’ first movements reveal early developmental clues? Find out in the next Research at Sussex. 📩 Subscribe today: ow.ly/Tr0E50Z24qB

A buff-tailed bumblebee feeding on a white flower against a soft blue background.

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University of Sussex @sussex.ac.uk · 15/05/2026

Artists, researchers, activists and policymakers are coming together at the University for #SussexRetold: Sounds, Sites, Stories on 19 June. This one-day event explores Sussex heritage, diversity and how the past can shape more progressive futures. Register now: ow.ly/Tqbg50YVZxS

Sussex Retold:
Sounds, Sites, Stories
A one-day conference investigating traditional arts, crafts, cultures and music from the Sussex region. With walks, workshops, dancing, drama and music.
Featuring:
Anooshka Rawden
Alinah Azadeh
Caroline Lucas
Libby Drew
Love our Ouse
The Wilderness Yet

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University of Sussex @sussex.ac.uk · 14/05/2026

We’re excited to be exhibiting at STEM in the Park in Crawley on Saturday 16 May, 11am–4pm in Memorial Gardens! This free event celebrates science, technology, engineering and maths through hands-on activities and interactive exhibits for all ages. More: thestemhub.org.uk/stem-in-the-park

Sussex community smile in front of an exhibition tent at STEM Festival

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