Our sixth Queen’s Anniversary Prize
The University has received a Queen’s Anniversary Prize in recognition of the range and impact of the projects undertaken at the world’s leading centre for the study of Robert Burns.
The award recognises the international cultural significance of Scotland’s national poet, Robert Burns, and the impact of the Centre for Robert Burns Studies.
The world-leading research centre illuminates Burns’ life, works, economic impact and legacy through interdisciplinary scholarship, cutting-edge teaching and wide-reaching knowledge exchange activity with a worldwide network of scholars, Burns enthusiasts and stakeholders.
“I am delighted and proud that the Royal Anniversary Trust has seen fit to honour the incredible work of our Centre for Robert Burns Studies with one of the Queen’s Anniversary Prize awards,” says Professor Sir Anton Muscatelli, Principal and Vice-Chancellor. “Burns’ enduring appeal continues to drive interest not just in his work and life, but in Scotland as a whole, which has in turn helped to drive tourism, economic benefit and has positioned our centre as a leader in research, innovation and education in this field.”
The Queen's Anniversary Prizes celebrate excellence, innovation and public benefit in work carried out by UK colleges and universities. The prizes, which showcase the positive impact of research on education, the economy and wider society, are the highest national honour awarded in UK further and higher education and are granted every two years. They are run by the Royal Anniversary Trust, an independent charity.
The University has been awarded the Queen's Anniversary Prize six times since the award’s inception.
2023: Centre for Robert Burns Studies
2021: Centre For Virus Research
2017: The Historical Thesaurus of English
2013: The Boyd Orr Centre for Population and Ecosystem Health
1998: Computing science: teaching and research
1994: Offering university cultural resources to those outside the University
Global Burns
On 25 January, millions across the world celebrate the life and works of Scotland’s national bard, Robert Burns (1759–96). Taking place on the anniversary of his birth, these celebrations often take the shape of a Burns Supper, where family and friends get together for a night of good food (haggis), drinks (whisky), poetry and song.
However, the legacy of Burns is more than just a night of merriment with those nearest and dearest to you. His poetry, ballads and satires elicit emotions we all feel, and it is with this in mind that the University is bringing together leading experts to reflect on his life and work in an event series entitled Global Burns.
On Wednesday 24 January, we will be holding two virtual gatherings that will bring together experts, enthusiasts and curious minds and give you the opportunity to participate in thought-provoking discussions and witness awe-inspiring performances. Whether you're a long-time fan of Burns or new to the scene, get ready to ignite your passion and connect with like-minded individuals to share knowledge, exchange ideas, and foster a sense of community.
Register here, mark your calendars and don't miss out on this extraordinary online experience. Let's come together and create a worldwide inferno of inspiration at Global Burns 2024!