16 June 2023
Work has started on creating a new Research Dialogue Hub in the Visualisation Centre on Aberystwyth University’s Penglais campus.
From late May 2023, the ground floor foyer of the building is being transformed to provide a specially-designed space for research and knowledge exchange activities coordinated by the University’s Dialogue Centre.
The new-look space will offer formal and informal meeting spaces for researchers and external partners as well as for knowledge exchange events.
Regular users of the Visualisation Centre will notice that the main entrance is being moved to the side of the building, allowing for more flexible use of the large foyer area with its distinctive glass frontage. The hub will also use the first-floor landing as a quieter meeting space.
Dr Jennifer Wolowic, Principal Lead of the Dialogue Centre, said:
“Since our first event in November 2022, the Dialogue Centre has been involved in a wide range of activities across the University and further afield where dialogue and dialogic processes are key components. We are delighted now to be able to offer this specially designed space at the heart of Penglais campus. The space will allow us to continue with our varied programme promoting knowledge exchange and engagement between academic researchers, government, industry, third sector organisations and diverse communities.”
The building work is being overseen by the University’s Department of Estates, Facilities and Residences, and is expected to be completed in August with a public launch event planned for September 2023.
Project Manager Jonathon Lubikowski, said:
“We are delighted to be working with the Dialogue Centre and the Department of Research, Business and Innovation to create a flexible, contemporary space which supports the University’s knowledge exchange activities. The Visualisation Centre on Penglais campus is one of our flagship buildings and in repurposing the foyer area, we are able to use our estate to respond to strategic priorities and research needs.”
The Dialogue Centre will also have a future home in the Old College when the building reopens after major restoration work.
For further information about the Research Dialogue Hub or the work of the Dialogue Centre in general, please contact dialogue@aber.ac.uk.