University of Southampton Community Events and Updates

In Conversation: Jon Sopel & Professor Russell Bentley – Thursday 13 February

Renowned British journalist, Southampton Pro-Chancellor, alumnus, bestselling author, political insider, and presenter of the chart-topping podcast The News Agents, we are thrilled to welcome Jon Sopel back for another In Conversation event.

In 2022, after eight years reporting from the heart of American politics, Jon returned to the UK to find British politics drastically transformed. During this live In Conversation event, Jon and Russell will dissect the political upheavals, societal shifts, and cultural nuances that have reshaped the political landscape on both sides of the Atlantic.

With his characteristic wit and clarity, Jon will offer a personal exploration of the changes that have redefined his homeland, alongside his thoughts on ‘life across the pond’, including the return of President Trump to the White House. There is sure to be plenty to discuss!

The event will include an audience Q&A segment, giving you the opportunity to put your questions to Jon.

Register your free place at https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/in-conversation-jon-sopel-professor-russell-bentley-tickets-1115535248959?aff=oddtdtcreator

Details of how to join online, will be sent approximately one week before the event.

SOTSEF (7 – 16 March)

Southampton Science and Engineering Festival (SOTSEF) is the University of Southampton’s annual award-winning interdisciplinary science festival that allows everyone to explore and discover what the world of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) has to offer.

In March 2025, during British Science Week join us on a journey of discovery with a series of interactive events and activities.

Science and Engineering Day (Saturday 15th March, 10:30 – 16:3

Science and Engineering Day is our free family-friendly event packed with more than a hundred hands-on activities, workshops, talks, exhibits shows and laboratory tours.

Programme, timetable of live events and tickets will go live on Friday 14 February.

Artistic Temperaments Festival 2025 – 14 Feb – 16 Feb

Join Turner Sims for a three-day keyboard instrument festival, presented in association with the University of Southampton Music Department, from Friday 14 February 13:00 – Sunday 16 February 15:00.

Deep-sea experts inform new art exhibition – 8 Feb – 3 May

Creatures from the deep are the focus of an upcoming exhibition at the University of Southampton’s John Hansard Gallery.

The exhibition, called Soundings, addresses the topic of deep-sea mining and its tensions and potential impacts.

Soundings will run at John Hansard Gallery, 142-144 Above Bar Street, Southampton, from Saturday 8 February to Saturday 3 May.

Thought-provoking event to reveal fascinating insights into majestic whales – 26 Jan – 26 Feb

The event, called Ocean Giants Ocean Giants will highlight the far-reaching impact of these majestic creatures on our planet.

Tessa Campbell Fraser’s whale sculptures will be on display in Winchester Cathedral from 22 January until 26 February.

Air pollution is driving health inequalities in the South, says new report A new report from Clean Air South says air pollution in the south of England could be further entrenching health inequalities, with those living in more deprived areas most affected.

It says poor air quality has wide ranging and long-term health impacts, contributes to deprivation, hampers productivity, and puts a strain on local health services.

The  Report was compiled as part of the University of Southampton’s Civic impact role together with the University’s Sustainability and Resilience Institute, Wessex Health Partners, and local authorities.

Local Musicians Invited To Turn It Up 2025!

Turn it up 2025 is now open for applications! Turn It Up is a development opportunity for local musicians with 5-10 years of professional experience.