Virtual exhibition finds students ‘more determined than ever’ as lockdown ends

The University of Leicester’s Doctoral College is set to reveal a selection of striking images in a virtual photography exhibition capturing the passion of its PhD students and Research Staff.

‘Images of Research’ is the result of an annual competition at the University that asks staff and students at its Doctoral College to submit one image representing zeal for their subject. Over 40 images were submitted which have been whittled down to 22 finalists.

The exhibition will take place online, on the last day of national lockdown, Wednesday 2 December, when the public will be invited to cast online votes between 11.00am and 4.00pm for their favourite image, which will receive the ‘People’s Choice’ award from the College.

Professor Dave Lambert, Director of Postgraduate Research said:  “This event is always a highlight of The Doctoral College calendar but this year the date is even more meaningful, representing the enthusiasm and commitment of our students and staff during a time when research and study can only be described as challenging.

“I am incredibly proud of the tenacity shown by our post grad students this year. The shortlisted images provide a snapshot of the talent and determination we have witnessed every day – it will be extremely tough for the public to find a favourite amongst so many thought-provoking and emotive images.”

Helen Elliott-Mainwaring is one student whose submitted image, ‘Kitchen Table Research in a Pandemic’ depicts her research space entirely covered by tablecloths full of notes on her kitchen table.

She says, “Our kitchen table was my dedicated research space for working from home during this global pandemic. I have been spending time word mapping my way around ideas for researching the visual management tools used for promoting and measuring Safety in Maternity Services.

“No one comes into healthcare to deliberately give poor care, but the current Parliamentary Inquiry into Maternity Services Safety is proving that poor care happens.

“Despite the pandemic I am more determined than ever to investigate our healthcare culture.”