Reading in the news - Fri 17 May

Reading ranks well: Reading.co.uk and Greatest Hits Radio report on the University of Reading placing at 35 in the UK, in the Complete University Guide Rankings 2025. Vice-chancellor, Professor Robert Van de Noort, is quoted.

#PlanetPartners: working with global partners to protect the environment

• Newsweek mentions a study by the University of Reading regarding sudden droughts doubling in numbers across Europe, South America and Africa. Republished by MSN.
• BBC Radio Berkshire spoke to Dr Laura Wilcox (Meteorology) on if volcanoes in Iceland can change the weather in the Northern hemisphere.

Health and wellbeing

• Dr Simon Clarke (Biomedical Sciences) informs that there is no need for people outside of issued areas to boil their water after an outbreak of cryptosporidium has been recorded in Devon, Mahalsa.co.uk reports.

Food and farming:

• Food and Drink Technology reports that I.T.S recently welcomed a group of students from the University of Reading to their Newbury Berkshire HQ. Republished by Industrial News.
• South East Farmer mentions a research trial conducted by the University, comparing non-treated versus fermentation bacteria-treated grass silage.
• Professor Glenn Gibson (Food and Nutritional Sciences) responded to a study about the link between hydrogen sulphide and disease for Live Science. Republished by MSN.
• Salon republished an article by The Conversation, written by Dr Melisa Mete (Henley Business School), discussing how supermarkets are changing their branding to appear cheaper.

Business and society:

• Professor Benjamin Laker (Henley Business School) moderated a webinar about improving employee engagement with job crafting, Tribune Content Agency reports.
• Professor Rosa Freedman (Law) spoke to BBC News 24 and BBC World on the ICJ hearing South Africa’s case on Israel’s Rafah operation.