Top Edinburgh Impact stories of 2024

Stories about how the University has made a difference through its people, actions and ideas in 2024.

Edinburgh city centre at New Year with fireworks
Edinburgh city at Hogmanay

Before 2025 begins, we wanted to share a selection of our stories from 2024 that have had the most impact with our readers, writers and editors.

These features, presented in no particular order, are a snapshot of the themes that have dominated the world in the past 12 months.

It also shows how the University of Edinburgh community used its ingenuity, resource and insight to make a positive difference both globally and locally. Shedding light on some of the world’s most pressing issues.

We hope you enjoy and you will continue to share in our Edinburgh Impact in 2025 and beyond.

Working together to see Scotland beyond net zero

Working together to see Scotland beyond net zero

Global warming demands urgent action. The Universities of Edinburgh and Glasgow are joining forces to help tackle the world’s greatest existential threat.

A black and white photograph of the Victorian displays and collection of skeletons, including two elephant skeletons, inside the University of Edinburgh Anatomical Museum. The photograph was taken in 1898 by London photographers Bedford Lemere.

Repatriations: changing the legacy of colonial collecting

Geraldine DickAug 22, 20248 min read

The University of Edinburgh’s Tom Gillingwater, Professor of Anatomy, and Daryl Green, Co-Director of the Centre for Research Collections, reflect on repatriation and what this means for the future of the University’s collections.

Bust of Apollo equipped with VR headset. Metaverse concept with copy space. 3D rendering

But is it art? – How AI is redrawing creativity

Stephen PhelanMay 23, 202411 min read

The ability to create art is a hallmark of what it means to be human. But with chatbots generating stunning images, video and even poetry, are we facing AI’s artistic triumph?

close up of a person head. They are looking up and wearing glasses.

Insights into the lack of a mind’s eye

Professor Adam ZemanApr 18, 20246 min read

A decade of research into aphantasia – the absence of mental imagery – reveals some fascinating insights.

Illustration shows a diverse class of schoolchildren wearing a dark green uniform. Two teachers stand on either side of the group.

Rewiring how neurodiversity is taught in the classroom

Jess ConwaySep 30, 20247 min read

As many as one in five children in the UK are neurodivergent, with the majority attending mainstream education. A major project is improving their experience in school.

Mans hands change clock hands

Why daylight savings should be put to bed

Dr Maria GardaniOct 23, 20245 min read

Changing time twice a year affects our wellbeing, our safety and the economy, experts say. So, should we stop the clocks?

Young people dancing during rehearsals for a show.

Free to flourish: Community groups thrive in University spaces

Emer O’TooleApr 15, 20246 min read

Local groups are being offered the free use of the University of Edinburgh’s spaces following the successful pilot of a new scheme.

A girl looks up in an outdoor campus setting.

Breaking beyond borders

Liz WallaceSep 12, 202410 min read

As Education Beyond Borders opens, three members of the University community whose lives have been impacted by conflict, reflect on their own experience and how we can empower those seeking refuge.

Emma and Dex from One Day in front of Edinburgh Castle

How Hollywood stardust comes to campus

Kate McAllisterAug 15, 20247 min read

The University of Edinburgh is a screen star. It is the backdrop for Hollywood blockbusters and smash-hit TV series. But what goes on behind the scenes to bring productions to campus?

A young woman walking outside COP28 past a row of trees and international flags

The importance of empathy for climate action

Nick BarnesFeb 28, 20248 min read

Joud Almanie brings a distinctive perspective to discussion of the climate crisis. An understanding and empathy for different nation’s stances may be what the urgent need for action demands.