Keele has been recognised as being among the best universities in the country, having been shortlisted for University of the Year in the 2020 Times Higher Education (THE) awards.

The prestigious THE awards recognise outstanding work in universities covering the whole breadth of their activity – both in academia and professional services.

The coveted University of the Year award is given to an institution which demonstrates exceptional performance across its research, teaching, leadership and business performance across its operations, and to be named as a finalist in this category is a significant achievement in itself.

The 2020 awards celebrate the achievements of universities throughout 2018/19, when Keele celebrated its 70th anniversary and enjoyed another outstanding year across all of its activities: from access through to teaching, research, and engagement.

Among the highlights from 2018/19 include a visit by Sir David Attenborough to open our new life science laboratories, during which he commended Keele’s work on sustainability and environmental issues; and the launch of the innovative HyDeploy project on campus, a pilot project which could drastically reduce the UK’s carbon emissions by decarbonising the gas grid.

The shortlisting announcement comes in the same week that Keele enjoyed a successful performance across several subjects in the Guardian University Guide 2021, ranking in the Top 10 in England for Student Satisfaction, and with four of its subjects achieving Top 10 in England status.

Professor Trevor McMillan, Vice Chancellor of Keele University said: "I’m incredibly proud that Keele has been named as a finalist for the University of the Year award.

“This nomination is a fitting recognition of the outstanding work of the staff and students here. The world class research and teaching by our academic staff is having a significant impact in fields like climate change, green energy and sustainability, and inspiring our students to go forward into the world and tackle the biggest challenges facing society, the economy, and the world.

“We also have an incredible network of professional service staff, who work tirelessly to provide essential support for staff and students. This nomination is shared by the whole Keele community and is a testament to all of their dedication and hard work.”

The winner will be announced from among the shortlisted universities when the THE awards are held this November.