Dr Carmen Solana , Reader in Volcanology and Risk Communications |
Decoding the language of violence against women
An expert in communication and applied linguistics , Dr Alessia Tranchese has identified distinct patterns of language and grammar in how the media report violence against women . She shows how patterns of silencing and disbelief towards women are common . Recognising the invisible harm the use of words can do is a vital step towards equality .
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Helping people stay safe when volcanoes erupt
Dr Carmen Solana is an expert in the risk to life and property posed by lava flows . Thankfully for civil authorities in areas with active volcanoes , she is also a specialist in risk communications . She studies the speed and impact of lava flows to inform life-saving decisions , such as evacuation times . And she advises on making public safety information effective .
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Using data to solve hidden mysteries on our plates
Professor Mark Xu is researching the design of a global traceability system to prevent a repeat of events like Britain ’ s 2013 horsemeat scandal , when the nation discovered the shocking equine origins of some ‘ beef ’ products . With a QR code , consumers would be empowered to view a product ’ s journey from growth , to production , to supermarket .
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Be part of research that changes the world |
Understanding what happens when democracy goes digital
Politics of all stripes are at home on social media . Understanding the implications for society is vital . Dr James Dennis explores grey areas behind cliches of ‘ digital dystopia ’ and ‘ slacktivism ’. With an anthropological approach , he ’ s seen digital native campaign groups use likes and shares by members to decide policies democratically .
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Making sure no child is ever left behind
Dr Wendy Sims-Schouten has researched the experiences of care leavers . This revealed a global challenge : children with complex mental health needs and behavioural issues are being judged unworthy of assistance . She is determined to stamp out labels like ‘ beyond help ’ by training those who work with vulnerable children , and lobbying for increased support .
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Revealing our place in the universe
Professor Claudia Maraston ' s stellar population models help make sense of faraway light emissions . Studying complex galaxies seemingly formed soon after the Big Bang , she calculates the sum of light under different assumptions . This helps build a picture of our universe long ago , bringing us closer to understanding the hows and whys of life and the universe .
Find out more at port . ac . uk / research
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