Our honorary graduates, government lawyer Sir Jonathan Jones, astrophysicist Professor George Efstathiou, and television presenter Matt Baker share their personal journeys and experiences of Durham. Former FE Principal, Suzanne Duncan, received her award posthumously.

Congratulations to Professor Kieran Fernandes, who will take up the role of Executive Dean in April 2025. Kieran will be responsible for strategic development and financial performance at the Business School. 

Carla Denyer, Liz James, Tracey MacLeod, Sophia Smith Galer and reserve Derek Ward-Thompson triumphed in the festive series of the BBC game show. The final was closely fought against Queens’ College, Cambridge 125 to 120.

From quantum science to galactic discoveries, our Department of Physics is at the forefront of breakthroughs in the field. Over the past few months, our scientists have made incredible findings.   

Pictured (L-R): Daniel Ruttley, Professor Simon Cornish, Dr Alexander Guttridge, and Tom Hepworth who have achieved world-leading quantum entanglement of molecules. 

Two Computer Science alumni and their Venture School startup, Choppity, gained endorsement from the investors in the BBC series Dragons’ Den.

Richard Walker OBE (Geography, St Aidan’s College, 1998-2001), Executive Chairman of UK retail chain Iceland, visited Durham recently to talk to students about how his studies and university experiences have helped shape his career. 

British writer, actor and comedian James Corden has shared valuable advice to young people wanting to work in the creative sector, in a high-profile event supported by the University. 

Pictured (L-R): David Miliband and James Corden  

We’re proud to celebrate the successes of the following alumni. Discover their achievements by using the ‘Read more’ button below.  

Staycie Domzalski (Education, University College, 2017-18)

Dr Ian Robert Gomersall (Physics, Van Mildert College, 1969-72)

Peter Hornsby (BA in Combined Social Sciences, 2013-16; MSc in Management Studies, 2016-18, St Cuthbert's Society)

The Rt Hon Sir Edward Leigh MP (History, University College, 1972-83)

Patricia McGarrahan (MA in Archaeology, Ustinov College, 2013-15)

Antonios Tsalikis (MA in International Relations (Middle East), Ustinov College, 2019-20)

Dr Anthony Wells (BA in Modern European History, 1962-65; MA in History, 1965-69, St Cuthbert’s Society)

Dr Nussaibah Younis (MSc in Arab World Studies, 2008-11; PhD in Government & International Affairs, 2011-14, Ustinov College)

Why not share your own news with us?

Our online sessions on Monday 10 and Tuesday 11 February will give you the opportunity to learn more about postgraduate study and life at Durham.

St John’s Common Room (SJCR) is looking to appoint up to two new external trustees. The trustees oversee SJCR’s governance, discussing finances, welfare, representation and more.

We’ve enjoyed celebrating at our Gaudy, Black History Month, Diwali, and Christmas formals, and hosted Professor Stanley Hui, Principal of Henry Fok Pearl Jubilee College, University of Macau. 

St Mary’s College will continue its 125th Anniversary celebration this academic year with three alumni reunion dinners in March, April and June.

Van Mildert’s 60th Anniversary celebrations have officially begun, with the first event on 30 January. It was a magnificent occasion and we’re already looking forward to the next gathering.