University News Last updated 03 September
Birmingham City University (BCU) has been shortlisted in two categories at the Times Higher Education (THE) Awards 2026, celebrating a landmark research project and an outstanding doctoral supervisor.
Aural Histories: Coventry 1451–1642, an AHRC-funded project led by Royal Birmingham Conservatoire in partnership with the University of Birmingham, Newcastle University and London Metropolitan University, is shortlisted for Research Project of the Year: Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences.
The project uncovered how music shaped life in historic Coventry, using virtual reconstructions of lost buildings, including St Michael's Cathedral, to "auralise" historic performances with the Binchois Consort and His Majestys Sagbutts & Cornetts.
Its flagship app, launched in 2025, drew coverage on BBC Midlands Today, with a major exhibition at Coventry's Herbert Museum running between September 2026 to September 2027.
Professor Judith Dyson, a chartered psychologist and Professor of Implementation Science, is additionally shortlisted for Outstanding Research Supervisor of the Year.
The leading academic has been recognised for thirteen years of doctoral supervision, which has produced twelve completions and more than twenty-five student journal papers, as well as six former students now in research or teaching roles.
Students praised her for pushing them to think critically, sharpen ideas, and improve the quality of their research, while always making sure they feel supported - and for being approachable yet uncompromising on quality and rigorous academic standards.
Professor Jenny Harding, Director of Research, said: “These two shortlisting's are a wonderful reflection of the depth and quality of research taking place across our university.
“Aural Histories has brought Coventry's forgotten soundscapes back to life, while Judith's dedication has shaped a generation of confident, capable researchers.
“We are incredibly proud of them both. They show what is attainable when we back bold, collaborative projects – and when we place value in our researchers that can carry our vision forward.”
Often dubbed the "Oscars" of Higher Education, the THE Awards celebrate the very best of the UK and Ireland's university sector.
Winners will be announced at the ceremony taking place on Thursday 26 November at The Vox in Birmingham.