What makes a good research centre? Join us for a chat with two of the CeMi directors about the highlights of 2025 and their hopes for 2026, as we discuss how to make the research centre spanning two universities a place of collaboration, partnerships, collegiality and live music.

Wishing everyone a great year ahead! Stay tuned for an exciting new CeMi Podcast format coming in 2026!

What makes the ideal researcher?

In this episode Lorna chats to Professor David Weitz, Mallinckrodt Professor of Physics & Applied Physics at Harvard University, encompassing discussions of research (on soft condensed matter, non-equilibrium thermodynamics and microfluidics), the struggle for funding in today's political climate, and the trials of running a spinout. Enjoy!

In this episode, we are joined by Dr Oana Dobre, a Lecturer in Biomedical engineering at the University of Glasgow. What is it like to be an early-career researcher today, and what are the challenges of securing funding in a competitive academic landscape? A really helpful discussion with Oana that shares personal experience that could relate to anyone starting out in research. Her honest and encouraging perspective offers practical advice and motivation for those working to navigate the early stages of their academic career.

A must-listen for aspiring researchers — we hope you enjoy the conversation!