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University of Suffolk announces first free public lectures of 2025

Artists exploring the climate crisis and a professor examining the relationship between sex, religion and politics will deliver the first free public lectures of 2025 at the University of Suffolk.

The big picture: The university is bringing expert knowledge directly to the community through its Open Lecture Series, featuring speakers from both within the university and further afield.

On humanity's relationship with nature: Artists Daniel and Clara will open the series on Tuesday 14 January, discussing their creative work exploring humanity's relationship with nature and the climate crisis.

The pair, who live in Mersea Island, Essex, have collaborated since 2010 on projects spanning performance, moving image and photography.

Professor Diarmaid MacCulloch
Professor Diarmaid MacCulloch(Barry JonesBarry Jones)

On the relationship between sex, religion and politics: Professor Diarmaid MacCulloch, a 2024 honorary graduate of the university, will follow on Wednesday 22 January. His lecture draws from his book "Lower Than Angels" to examine how religion and sex have become entangled in politics both historically and in modern times.

Coming up: The series continues in March with:

  • Charlie Haylock returning on 6 March to discuss the Norman origins and evolution of surnames

  • Dr Michael Sauter presenting on colonial Latin American libraries on 20 March

What they're saying: "We are bringing cutting-edge research and fascinating insights directly to our community, creating evenings that will challenge your thinking and spark the imagination," said Professor Emma Bond, Pro Vice-Chancellor Research and Knowledge Exchange.

The bottom line: All lectures begin at 6pm at the university's Waterfront campus, with registration from 5.30pm. Free places can be booked at www.uos.ac.uk/about/events.

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Despite a lack of promotion, the big reveal drew a good crowd of passersby

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