Health research shared with public through free lecture series

In this series, researchers at the University of Brighton and Brighton and Sussex Medical School reveal how their investigations improve health outcomes, contribute to current thinking and inform the future. Find out more about the treatment of diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease and discover why serotonin is more than just the ‘happy hormone’.

Delivered by newly appointed professors, the lectures will delve into the pioneering research Brighton academics are carrying out to improve understanding of diverse issues and address challenges facing people and communities in Brighton, across the UK and around the world. Lectures also give insights into how academics become experts in their chosen field.

The lectures are free to attend, and open to staff, students and the general public – but booking is essential. A reception follows each lecture where conversations can continue informally with people from across the university and the wider community.

On 23 April 2025, join Wendy Macfarlane, Professor of Diabetes and Metabolism, as she explores whether the damaged insulin-producing cells in people with diabetes can be replaced and the way in which this might be achieved, as she reveals the surprising role that microgravity could play in treatments.

Discover more about what really works to slow down Alzheimer’s disease on 8 May 2025 with Naji Tabet, Professor of Dementia and Old Age Psychiatry. He will shed light on specific antibodies with their potential to significantly change disease management and outline a combination of current approaches that may offer the most hope for treating patients today.

Mark Yeoman, Professor of Neuropharmacology, will be unveiling the secrets of serotonin and how signalling changes as we age can affect digestion as well as learning and memory formation. He will demonstrate how important it is to understand these changes to ensure healthy ageing and will highlight specific studies of interest. Join him on Wednesday 21 May 2025.

You will find details for all inaugural lectures available to book on the University of Brighton open lectures page. If you would like to attend, please register online no later than 48 hours prior to the event.

Find out more about inaugural lectures and explore films from our previous ones for insights into a variety of enthralling research topics.

Book now

Professor Wendy Macfarlane
Diabetes: To microgravity and beyond
Wednesday 23 April 2025 at 6.30pm, Sallis Benney Lecture Theatre, 58-67 Grand Parade, Brighton, BN2 0JY

Professor Naji Tabet
Slowing down Alzheimer’s disease: What really works now?
Thursday 8 May 2025 at 6.30pm, Chowen Lecture Theatre, BSMS Teaching Building, University of Sussex, Falmer, Brighton, BN1 9PX

Professor Mark Yeoman
Serotonin: It’s not all about happiness
Wednesday 21 May 2025 at 6.30pm, University of Brighton, Huxley Lecture Theatre (300), Huxley Building, Lewes Road, Brighton, BN2 4GJ