University of Leicester

Public research university in Leicester, England

Escutcheon of the University of Leicester

The University of Leicester is a public research university based in Leicester, England. The university was established in 1921 and gained its royal charter in 1957. It is renowned for its research and teaching excellence, particularly in the fields of genetics, archaeology, and space science.

History

The University of Leicester was founded as a living memorial to those who lost their lives in World War I. It began as the University College of Leicester in 1921, with the first students admitted in 1921. The college was initially housed in the Fielding Johnson Building, which remains a central part of the university campus today.

Fielding Johnson Building, University of Leicester

In 1957, the college was granted its royal charter, becoming the University of Leicester. Since then, it has grown significantly in size and reputation, becoming a leading institution for research and higher education.

Campus

The main campus is located a short distance from the city centre, adjacent to Victoria Park. The campus is home to a mix of historic and modern buildings, including the iconic Engineering Building, designed by James Stirling and James Gowan.

Engineering Building

The Attenborough Tower is another notable structure on campus, housing the university's arts and humanities departments.

Attenborough Tower

Academic Profile

The University of Leicester is organized into several colleges and schools, offering a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs. It is particularly known for its research in genetics, having been the site of the discovery of DNA fingerprinting by Alec Jeffreys in 1984.

The university is also recognized for its contributions to archaeology, notably the discovery of the remains of King Richard III in 2012.

Archaeologist working in trench

Research

The University of Leicester is a member of the Russell Group of research-intensive universities. It has a strong focus on interdisciplinary research, with key areas including space science, medicine, and social sciences.

The university's Space Research Centre is involved in numerous international projects, contributing to the development of space technology and exploration.

Student Life

The university offers a vibrant student life, with a wide range of clubs, societies, and sports facilities. The Students' Union provides support and representation for students, organizing events and activities throughout the year.

Notable Alumni

The University of Leicester has a diverse alumni network, including notable figures in politics, science, and the arts. Some distinguished alumni include Peter Atkins, a renowned chemist, and Bob Mortimer, a well-known comedian.

Related Pages

• List of universities in the United Kingdom
• Russell Group
• Leicester

University of Leicester towers

External Links

• Official website of the University of Leicester