Events in May

Forthcoming Events

Thu 8th May

Two staff members sit on the floor with children and craft materials BabyLab sessions
1pm - 3pm
The Exchange, Centenary Square
Join a relaxed session for parents and carers to explore fascinating research on topics from child development to science, health, and society while little ones play, feed, or snooze. Come as you are - curious minds (and wriggly babies) encouraged!
A student at the door of the Pause lodge, which has a poster and crafted heart pinned to it Pause@uni drop-in
2pm - 6pm
No. 1 Lodge, North Gate
Pause@uni is a place for students aged up to the age of 25, where you can talk about anything that may be worrying you. Drop in without an appointment to chat to the friendly team of trained and experienced workers.
A group of students sit around a low coffee table with craft items, next to a banner for Pause Comfort Zone with Pause@UoB
5pm - 6pm
No. 1 Lodge, North Gate
Head to the No. 1 Lodge at North Gate for space to meet others, create, play and relax - or enjoy a free snack and a drink!
A group of students on a campus tour, standing in the Aston Webb Reception Wondrous Wander: A walk through queer history and memory in the footsteps of Rose Sidgwick
8pm - 9:30pm
Meet at Old Joe
Discover the lives of Rose Sidgwick, History lecturer, and Margery Fry, founder of the University's hostel for women, and their significance to, queer history, internationalism, and gender with this walking tour of the Edgbaston campus.

Fri 9th May

Two staff members chat in a meeting room Introduction to presentation skills
noon - 1:30pm
Online
Are you a Postgraduate Researcher who wants to build your confidence in delivering presentations? This workshop covers the basics of a good presentation, including structure and visual aids. Get peer feedback on an informal presentation of your own.
A group of students and facilitator sit around a table in discussion Top tips for interview and assessment centre success
3pm - 4pm
Online
Our innovative ‘Top Tips’ sessions are designed to give you the confidence and tools to make your way successfully through the application and selection process.

Sun 11th May

A crowd of Sikhi in front of a festival style stage on a sunny day Vaisakhi in the Park
1pm - 10pm
Victoria Park, High St, Smethwick
Join the UK's biggest Vaisakhi celebration, with food, stalls, performances, and crafts celebrating Sikh heritage and community spirit. Dive into spirituality at the Darbar and Langar area, and explore the bazaar and Kids Zone, and Seva Corner.
Two students on a bench holding candyfloss Res Life: Spring Fling
5pm - 9pm
The Vale Village
Living in uni or partner accommodation? Head to The Vale for Spring Fling! You'll find inflatables, carnival games, and FREE burgers, ice cream, and candyfloss! Drop by the Chill Out Zone for some self-care and wellbeing support.
Three students wearing aprons smile whilst baking in a kitchen Bread & Belief: spiritual nourishment
9pm - 11pm
Multi-Faith Chaplaincy, St. Francis Hall
Join us to bake tasty bread and share stories as we eat bread together around the table. All perspectives and beliefs are welcome as we discuss this month's theme of soul food.

Mon 12th May

A close up of a lap with hands resting, with a step tracker and rainbow bead bracelet on one wrist LGBTQ+ Wellbeing drop in
3:30pm - 7pm
Behind main reception, Guild of Students
Led by Birmingham LGBT sexual health team and supported by Umbrella, these drop-in sessions offer free support for LGBTQ+ students. You can access testing, advice and support, and pick up some freebies, as well as discovering other services.
Three students walk between the sports courts at Bournbrook Wondrous Wander: Old Joe to Selly Oak campus via UoB’s Quaker connections
8pm - 9:30pm
Meet at Old Joe
Join this popular guided tour from the Old Joe to the Selly Oak campus, learning about the connections between Quakerism and the early history of the University, led by Dr Rhiannon Grant (Department of Theology and Religion and Woodbrooke).

Tue 13th May

Three students sit chatting in front of a poster display board Designing and presenting your poster at conferences
2pm - 3:30pm
Online
Learn how to maximise the opportunity to communicate your research in a highly visual way using a poster as a Postgraduate Researcher. Understand the nature of a poster session, how to create visual impact, and how to use PowerPoint in this context.
A student and staff member chat in the Pause lodge Pause@uni drop-in
2pm - 6pm
No. 1 Lodge, North Gate
Pause@uni is a place for students aged up to the age of 25, where you can talk about anything that may be worrying you. Drop in without an appointment to chat to the friendly team of trained and experienced workers.
Old Joe on a blue sky day with a bird flying nearby The Philosophy Garden: Is it unfair to dismiss another person’s perspective?
3:30pm - 4:30pm
Winterbourne House & Gardens
Negative stereotypes may prevent people from taking each other seriously. Join Dr Kathleen Murphy-Hollies as she explores the idea of epistemic injustice. Head to Winterbourne for a free philosophy workshop for all ages, facilitated by UoB academics.

Wed 14th May

Two students walk towards the No. 1 Lodge, a low brick building Pause@UoB open house
1pm - 2pm
No. 1 Lodge, North Gate
Ever wondered what Pause@UoB is like? Drop-in for our weekly open house to meet the team, explore the space, and ask any questions, without sessions running. We'll even put the kettle on!
A student and staff member chat in a garden space Pause@uni drop-in
2pm - 6pm
No. 1 Lodge, North Gate
Pause@uni is a place for students aged up to the age of 25, where you can talk about anything that may be worrying you. Drop in without an appointment to chat to the friendly team of trained and experienced workers.
Three students and a staff member chat at a table in the Library Lounge covered in craft items Wednesday Crafternoon with Pause@UoB
4pm - 7pm
Library Lounge, Main Library
Join Pause@UoB for a relaxed afternoon getting creative with some free arts and crafts, and space to chat and relax.
A student sits at a laptop, in conversation Getting your thesis ready for PGRs
5pm - 7pm
Online
For Postgraduate Researchers (PGRs) approaching the final stages of preparing their thesis (4-6 months from submission), this workshop covers thesis presentation, the submission process and copyright considerations.
Two students walk towards the Guild carrying sports bags Community Wardens: Self-Defence Class
9pm - 10pm
Dance Studio, Guild of Students
Your Community Wardens are back with their self-defence class, perfect for all skill levels. Learn some essential techniques with Birmingham Taekwondo and grab some free safety gear while you’re at it!
An allosaurus skeleton in a museum looms at the camera Quiz Night at the Lapworth Museum
10pm - 11:30pm
Lapworth Museum of Geology
Quiz nights are back at the Lapworth Museum! Join us for an exciting evening of trivia across a variety of fun categories, all while surrounded by fascinating fossils and our Allosaurus Roary. Come solo or as a team - student tickets cost £3.96.

Thu 15th May

A student at the door of the Pause lodge, which has a poster and crafted heart pinned to it Pause@uni drop-in
2pm - 6pm
No. 1 Lodge, North Gate
Pause@uni is a place for students aged up to the age of 25, where you can talk about anything that may be worrying you. Drop in without an appointment to chat to the friendly team of trained and experienced workers.
Students on a footpath and stairs, seen from above Unusual experiences and beliefs
3pm - 4:30pm
Online
During Mental Health Awareness week, we take time to discuss the harms that negative stereotypes can have for people who have unusual experiences and beliefs, with a panel of experts across psychiatry, philosophy, and the charity sector.
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/bread-belief-for-may-2025-tickets-1354976684739?aff=oddtdtcreator Bread & Belief: spiritual nourishment
4pm - 6pm
Multi-Faith Chaplaincy, St. Francis Hall
Join us to bake tasty bread and share stories as we eat bread together around the table. All perspectives and beliefs are welcome as we discuss this month's theme of soul food.
A group of students sit around a low coffee table with craft items, next to a banner for Pause Comfort Zone with Pause@UoB
5pm - 6pm
No. 1 Lodge, North Gate
Head to the No. 1 Lodge at North Gate for space to meet others, create, play and relax - or enjoy a free snack and a drink!

Fri 16th May

A person sits at a table Preparing for your viva for PGRs
1pm - 2pm
Online
The viva is an important part of the assessment for your Postgraduate Research (PGR) programme - find out what to expect and demystify the process with some practical activities to help you prepare.
A student working on a laptop and writing in a notebook Reviewing the literature for PGRs
1pm - 3pm
Room 122, Muirhead Tower
Understand how to create a quality literature review and effectively synthesise the literature you have read as a Postgraduate Research (PGR) student.
Photo of a student studying with a laptop Top tips for CVs, cover letters and applications
3pm - 4pm
Online
Whether you are looking for part time work to compliment your studies, applying for an internship or seeking graduate opportunities, this session will give you valuable information on best practice for creating CVs, cover letters and applications.

Sun 18th May

A silhouetted figure stood DJing at a laptop, with a large wooden cross next to them be...
10pm - midnight
Bournville Parish Church, St Francis of Assisi, Bournville
Join the University of Birmingham Anglican Chaplaincy and Bournville Parish Church for joyful, lively, and welcoming Sunday evening worship in Bournville.

Mon 19th May

Two nurses chat on a ward Degree Apprenticeships in Healthcare webinar
3pm - 4pm
Online
considering your next steps after your degree? Did you know we offer postgraduate degree apprenticeships in Nursing and Advanced Clinical Practice? Join this webinar to explore the innovative programmes offered by the College of Medicine and Health.
A student sat in a relaxed chair working on a laptop Structuring your thesis for PGRs
5pm - 7pm
Room 122, Muirhead Tower
Already have some draft texts but unsure how these might fit together in a logical thesis structure? This highly interactive workshop for Postgraduate Research (PGR) students will cover common thesis structures and strategies for creating your own.

Tue 20th May

A student on their phone in a social space Planning for success for PGRs
5pm - 7pm
Room 122, Muirhead Tower
Designed primarily for Postgraduate Researchers (PGRs) in the very early stages of their research programme (approximately during the first three months), this workshop cover research project management techniques.

Wed 21st May

Two students walk towards the No. 1 Lodge, a low brick building Pause@UoB open house
1pm - 2pm
No. 1 Lodge, North Gate
Ever wondered what Pause@UoB is like? Drop-in for our weekly open house to meet the team, explore the space, and ask any questions, without sessions running. We'll even put the kettle on!
A headshot of Prof J Jiao UoB China Institute Li Siguang Lecture 2025
3:30pm - 4:30pm
Lloyd Suite, Hornton Grange
Join the China Institute for our 7th annual Li Siguang Lecture! This year we welcome alumnus Prof Jimmy Jiao, Professor of Hydrogeology (University of Hong Kong) to deliver a talk on Groundwater: Challenges and Changes in the 21st Century.
Three students and a staff member chat at a table in the Library Lounge covered in craft items Wednesday Crafternoon with Pause@UoB
4pm - 7pm
Library Lounge, Main Library
Join Pause@UoB for a relaxed afternoon getting creative with some free arts and crafts, and space to chat and relax.
A student at a bike hire stand outside Medical School, with another cycling by Everyday and advanced bike skills
8pm - 10pm
On campus
Perfect for seasoned riders wanting to brush up on skills, this three session course will teach you to cycle on-road with confidence. You'll navigate simple and more complex road layouts and junctions, and be able to ride in busy traffic conditions.
A headshot of Professor Klaus Richter Does economic nationalism empower people? Evidence from East Central Europe
8:15pm - 9:15pm
Room G11, Alan Walters building
Professor Klaus Richter's inaugural lecture explores the comeback of economic nationalism, and considers whether it empowers people through historical investigation of politics and the changing expectations that societies have of the state.
Two students walk towards the Guild carrying sports bags Community Wardens: Self-Defence Class
9pm - 10pm
Dance Studio, Guild of Students
Your Community Wardens are back with their self-defence class, perfect for all skill levels. Learn some essential techniques with Birmingham Taekwondo and grab some free safety gear while you’re at it!
A person at a table with drinks raises their hand Pint of Science: Our Bodies
10pm - 12:30am
The Exchange, Centenary Square
Join researchers from Birmingham’s universities as they explore everything from the cells that build our bodies, to the breath that keeps us alive, and the tests that promise to unlock our health secrets. Tickets cost £5.

Thu 22nd May

A student studying in a library full of books. PGR Shut Up and Work
12:30pm - 7:30pm
PGR SUAW Teams site
Monthly online co-working sessions for PGRs. Stay focussed and productive, and take breaks together in a supportive online community.
A group of students sit around a low coffee table with craft items, next to a banner for Pause Comfort Zone with Pause@UoB
5pm - 6pm
No. 1 Lodge, North Gate
Head to the No. 1 Lodge at North Gate for space to meet others, create, play and relax - or enjoy a free snack and a drink!
A student speaks to a staff member at a stand in the Great Hall Making the most of conferences for PGRs
6pm - 8pm
Room 122, Muirhead Tower
This workshop will introduce practical tips for Postgraduate Researchers (PGRs) preparing to attend a conference, attending and following up with actions to get the maximum value, including getting the most out of networking opportunities.
A projector beams light into dusty air, creating light trails PGR Film Club
9:30pm - 12:30am
Westmere House
Settle in for a PGR-led monthly Film Club for postgraduate researchers. Join us to watch a film and chat about it!

Sat 24th May

A crowd of people with a unified at pride banner and large floating balloons in pride flag colours UNIfied @ Birmingham Pride Parade
1:30pm - 5pm
Meet at The Exchange, Centenary Square
Join the UNIfied @ Pride team and march with students and staff from six local universities in the Birmingham Pride Parade, as we demonstrate our joint commitment to LGBTQ+ inclusivity in higher education. Register now to take part in the parade.

Sun 25th May

Old Joe on a blue sky day with a bird flying nearby The Vegan Market co. at Winterbourne
1:30pm - 7:30pm
Winterbourne House & Gardens
The Vegan Market Co. are coming to Winterbourne! With independent, and eco-focussed companies selling various vegan goodies, children’s activities and Grow Your Own hints and tips, there's something for everyone. Entry is free with your UoB ID card.

Tue 27th May

A child shines a UV torch on a fish on a wall display May half term: Rivers
2pm - 6pm
The Exchange, Centenary Square
Discover the important role rivers play in nature, the hidden materials that flow through them, and the threats they face in a changing environment. Families are invited to get creative!
A student and staff member chat in the Pause lodge Pause@uni drop-in
2pm - 6pm
No. 1 Lodge, North Gate
Pause@uni is a place for students aged up to the age of 25, where you can talk about anything that may be worrying you. Drop in without an appointment to chat to the friendly team of trained and experienced workers.

Wed 28th May

Two students walk towards the No. 1 Lodge, a low brick building Pause@UoB open house
1pm - 2pm
No. 1 Lodge, North Gate
Ever wondered what Pause@UoB is like? Drop-in for our weekly open house to meet the team, explore the space, and ask any questions, without sessions running. We'll even put the kettle on!
A student and staff member chat in a garden space Pause@uni drop-in
2pm - 6pm
No. 1 Lodge, North Gate
Pause@uni is a place for students aged up to the age of 25, where you can talk about anything that may be worrying you. Drop in without an appointment to chat to the friendly team of trained and experienced workers.
Three students and a staff member chat at a table in the Library Lounge covered in craft items Wednesday Crafternoon with Pause@UoB
4pm - 7pm
Library Lounge, Main Library
Join Pause@UoB for a relaxed afternoon getting creative with some free arts and crafts, and space to chat and relax.
A student wearing headphones stands at a PC in the library Reading and note-making strategies for PGRs
5pm - 7pm
Room 122, Muirhead Tower
A huge quantity of reading is required for postgraduate research. This workshop helps you develop strategies to read effectively and efficiently, extracting the key information into your notes. Bring your own reading material to practise with!

Thu 29th May

A student smiles whilst working on a laptop Writing clearly and concisely for PGRs
1pm - 3pm
Room 122, Muirhead Tower
Sharpen up your writing to communicate your research and ideas more effectively as a Postgraduate Research (PGR) student. It will be most useful for those who have draft texts.
A student at the door of the Pause lodge, which has a poster and crafted heart pinned to it Pause@uni drop-in
2pm - 6pm
No. 1 Lodge, North Gate
Pause@uni is a place for students aged up to the age of 25, where you can talk about anything that may be worrying you. Drop in without an appointment to chat to the friendly team of trained and experienced workers.
A group of students sit around a low coffee table with craft items, next to a banner for Pause Comfort Zone with Pause@UoB
5pm - 6pm
No. 1 Lodge, North Gate
Head to the No. 1 Lodge at North Gate for space to meet others, create, play and relax - or enjoy a free snack and a drink!
A heavily blue lit stage with a presenter at a lectern, and a display screen showing an image of cheerleaders Sports Awards 2025
8:15pm - midnight
Bramall Music Building
Returning to the stunning Bramall Music Building, this year’s Sports Awards will honour excellence, recognising dedication and success in team performance, coaching, individual sporting excellence, and contributions to our sporting community.

Fri 30th May

A student looks at her phone on campus How to make money online
4pm - 5:30pm
Online
Unlock the power of social media and freelance platforms to turn your skills into income! Perfect for beginners and aspiring entrepreneurs, this workshop will equip you with the tools to start making money online today.

Mon 2nd June

An image of students collecting litter on and around campus Junkbusters
3pm - 6pm
Various locations
Donate your unwanted items to Junkbusters! Your Community Wardens will have collection stations every Monday in June, throughout Selly and Bournbrook.
A close up of a lap with hands resting, with a step tracker and rainbow bead bracelet on one wrist LGBTQ+ Wellbeing drop in
3:30pm - 7pm
Behind main reception, Guild of Students
Led by Birmingham LGBT sexual health team and supported by Umbrella, these drop-in sessions offer free support for LGBTQ+ students. You can access testing, advice and support, and pick up some freebies, as well as discovering other services.
Two students in lab coats look at something together Working effectively with your supervisor for PGRs
5pm - 6:30pm
Online
Understand what to expect from the supervisor-researcher relationship as a Postgraduate Research (PGR) students and how to get the most from your supervisory team, and the support available to complement your supervision.

Tue 3rd June

Three students look at pottery on a market stall Artisan Market
1pm - 7pm
University Square
Find tasty food, handmade gifts, and more as the bustling Artisan Market comes to campus!
A student and staff member chat in the Pause lodge Pause@uni drop-in
2pm - 6pm
No. 1 Lodge, North Gate
Pause@uni is a place for students aged up to the age of 25, where you can talk about anything that may be worrying you. Drop in without an appointment to chat to the friendly team of trained and experienced workers.

Wed 4th June

A student wearing headphones stands at a PC in the library Reading and note-making strategies for PGRs
noon - 1:30pm
Online
A huge quantity of reading is required for postgraduate research. This workshop helps you develop strategies to read effectively and efficiently, extracting the key information into your notes. Bring your own reading material to practise with!
Two students walk towards the No. 1 Lodge, a low brick building Pause@UoB open house
1pm - 2pm
No. 1 Lodge, North Gate
Ever wondered what Pause@UoB is like? Drop-in for our weekly open house to meet the team, explore the space, and ask any questions, without sessions running. We'll even put the kettle on!
A student and staff member chat in a garden space Pause@uni drop-in
2pm - 6pm
No. 1 Lodge, North Gate
Pause@uni is a place for students aged up to the age of 25, where you can talk about anything that may be worrying you. Drop in without an appointment to chat to the friendly team of trained and experienced workers.
Two students look at a phone showing a scientific diagram Introduction to AI tools for researchers
4pm - 5pm
Online
Develop an understanding of the opportunities and risks of using AI tools in the research process as a Postgraduate Research (PGR) student.
Three students and a staff member chat at a table in the Library Lounge covered in craft items Wednesday Crafternoon with Pause@UoB
4pm - 7pm
Library Lounge, Main Library
Join Pause@UoB for a relaxed afternoon getting creative with some free arts and crafts, and space to chat and relax.

Thu 5th June

A staff member sits working at a laptop in a café space Literature searching training for PGRs
1pm - 3pm
Online
Develop a search strategy, use that to undertake a literature search, keep the resulting records of your search and get tips and techniques to maximise effectiveness, as a Postgraduate Research (PGR) student.
A student at the door of the Pause lodge, which has a poster and crafted heart pinned to it Pause@uni drop-in
2pm - 6pm
No. 1 Lodge, North Gate
Pause@uni is a place for students aged up to the age of 25, where you can talk about anything that may be worrying you. Drop in without an appointment to chat to the friendly team of trained and experienced workers.
A student smiles sitting at a desk Increasing your productivity for PGRs
4pm - 5:30pm
Online
As Postgraduate Research (PGR) students, we cannot change the number of hours in a day, but we can use them as effectively as possible. This workshop encourages you to understand your own working preferences to be as productive as possible.
A group of students sit around a low coffee table with craft items, next to a banner for Pause Comfort Zone with Pause@UoB
5pm - 6pm
No. 1 Lodge, North Gate
Head to the No. 1 Lodge at North Gate for space to meet others, create, play and relax - or enjoy a free snack and a drink!
Rene Magritte's The Flavour of Tears The Exchange X Barber LATES: Art, science and the natural world
9pm - 11pm
The Exchange, Centenary Square
The Exchange, The Barber Institute, and Vivid Projects team up for a playful and thought-provoking evening of art, creativity and conversation, inspired by René Magritte’s The Flavour of Tears. Come for the art, stay for the conversation!

Fri 6th June

A student sat in a relaxed chair working on a laptop Structuring your thesis for PGRs
noon - 1:30pm
Online
Already have some draft texts but unsure how these might fit together in a logical thesis structure? This highly interactive workshop for Postgraduate Research (PGR) students will cover common thesis structures and strategies for creating your own.

Sat 7th June

Valefest 2025 poster Valefest 2025
7pm - 2am
The Vale Village
ValeFest is back with a bang on 7 June! Celebrate the end of the year with live music and performances, showcasing the best of student and local talent right on your doorstep! Tickets from £20.
RSS Feed