Category: University (Page 1 of 2)

Campus guide

14/09/2026 / mayagreen / 0 Comments

Campus guide

At Napier, we have three university campuses spread across the city of Edinburgh, each of them outfitted with state-of-the-art facilities to assist you in your studies, and each of them serving as the central hub to our different academic schools, with the library catalogue of each campus being focused on that campus’s academic departments.
Speaking from experience, we know that it can be a bit confusing for students (and staff!) to keep track of what things are at each campus, so we thought we’d put together this very quick campus guide to help incoming students get familiar with each campus – and maybe to try and jog the memories of returning students!

Merchiston Campus

First up is Merchiston, our oldest campus and home to the School of Arts and Creative Industries (SACI) along with the School of Computing, Engineering, and Built Environment (SCEBE)
It’s actually from the history of Merchiston that Napier gets its name. The campus is built around Merchiston Tower, which was the family home and birthplace of John Napier, a 16th-century Scottish mathematician who discovered logarithms and helped popularise the decimal point!
Although the tower is typically closed to the public, it is occasionally open for guided tours. So keep an eye out for any upcoming tours if you ever want to get a peek inside!

At Merchiston, you’ll find professional-standard facilities ready to provide you with some hands-on experience in creative fields, such as music recording studios and a news broadcast room. You’ll also find our Merchiston library, with a full catalogue of books covering creative subjects, computing, and engineering, as well as eleven study rooms and dozens of desktop PCs in an open-plan environment with a bright.

But perhaps the most notable feature of Merchiston is the Jack Kilby Computing Centre (JKCC) A 500 seat computer lab complete with all the facilities you’ll need for your studies, including desktop computers, printers, and laptops available for loan. There is also a helpdesk where our student helpers will be available to provide you with any IT support you might need during your time here, from resetting your university password to connecting you to our precious Wi-Fi!
Merchiston is also where you can find the offices for ENSA – the Edinburgh Napier Student’s Association which serves as the university’s student union and is there to provide you with advice and support during your studies, as well as organising social events for you to meet and get to know other Napier students. ENSA also organises and oversees dozens of student societies and sports clubs active at the university.

You’ll find Merchiston in the southside of Edinburgh between Bruntsfield and Morningside, just down the road from Holy Corner (an area named because of the large number of churches it has). This makes it our most centrally located campus, and as a result, it is well served by Edinburgh’s public transport. Bus routes 11, 15, 16, 23, 36, and 45 all stop at Holy Corner just a short walk from the campus, while the 45 bus stops just across the street.

Craiglockhart Campus

Next up is Craiglockhart, home of the Business School and located in the former Craiglockhart Hydropathic Building, a Victorian-era facility that originally served as a healthcare facility before becoming a military hospital during the First World War. The most notable feature of Craiglockhart has to be the Lindsay Stewart lecture theatre, which seats 200 people and looks sort of like a giant silver egg attached to the front of the building.

Our Craiglockhart library is directly downstairs from the entrance atrium and has an open-air plan, meaning if you’re in the library, you can just look up and see right into the entrance atrium above you. Here you’ll find our catalogue of books on business and law studies, collaborative study desks, and separate rooms for quiet and silent study.
One of the most interesting parts of Craiglockhart is the War Poets Collection, an archive of over 800 items relating to the famous First World War poets who spent time at the building back when it was a hospital for British army officers. You can find many of these items on display in the campus atrium.

The Craiglockhart campus is located in the southwest of the city, between Morningside and Colinton, in a quiet suburb. If you ask me, this is maybe our prettiest campus. The building is surrounded by grass and trees, and the back of the campus opens onto Craiglockhart Hill, which offers a lovely view of the surrounding area. I’ve known more than one person who enjoyed spending their lunchtime going on quick walks of the hills, or otherwise just having a little picnic in the sun!
Craiglockhart is serviced by bus routes 4, 10, 27, and 45. It is also a quick walk uphill from Slateford train station.

Sighthill Campus

Finally, there is Sighthill, the newest of all our campuses and home to the School of Health and Social Care (SCHSC) and the School of Applied Sciences (SAS)
Sighthill might be the most high-tech of all our campuses. At Sighthill, you’ll find the Clinical Skills Centre, where our healthcare students can practice what they’ve learned in a simulated environment that closely reflects the atmosphere of a real hospital.

Sighthill also has our largest library, with over 200 computers and 9 study rooms spread across five floors of the Learning Resource Centre (LRC). On the first floor, you’ll find a social area with some tables for socialising and studying. On the second floor, there is our library and IT helpdesk, along with some printers, dozens of computers, and some laptops for you to borrow. Floors three and four house our book catalogue and serve as our silent study floors. And on the fifth floor you’ll find some group study rooms, along with the Horizon Suite – a conference room that has a beautiful view of the surrounding area.

At Sighthill, you’ll have access to ENGAGE Fitness, our on-campus gym and sports facility, which is open to Napier students and members of the public. At Engage you’ll find Olympic weightlifting equipment, as well as a sports hall that can be booked out for badminton, basketball, five-a-side football, and other games.
Sighthilll is also the administrative centre of Napier, being the campus where you’ll find many of our student support departments such as the International Support team, and the Finance office.

You can find Sighthill west of the city centre just off Calder Road in the suburb of Sighthill. The campus is served by bus routes 3, 21, 25, 33, 34, and 35. You can also get here quickly by tram, with the Bankhead Loan tram stop just being a short walk away from campus.

This post has been a long one – but then, there’s lots to say and see at our campuses!
Your studies will mostly be centred around one campus, but hopefully this post has you excited to go visit the others while you’re here!

By Matthew Ferrie

We have lots of campus posts, learn about their quirks and histories

Five Research Mistakes Students Make (and How to Avoid Them)

30/07/2026 / julietkinsey / 0 Comments

Five Research Mistakes Students Make (and How to Avoid Them)

Research is about much more than finding information. It helps you understand your subject, evaluate evidence, and develop your own ideas. Strong research also makes writing assignments much easier because you already have reliable sources to support your arguments.

However, many students fall into the same traps. The good news is that these mistakes are easy to avoid with a little planning.

Here are five common research mistakes and some practical ways to improve your research skills.

1. Starting Your Research Too Late

It is easy to underestimate how long research takes. Many students think they can find everything they need in one evening. Unfortunately, good research rarely works that way.

Finding useful sources takes time. Reading them carefully takes even longer. You also need time to compare different viewpoints, make notes, and decide which evidence best supports your argument.

Instead, start your research as soon as your assignment is released. First, read the assignment brief carefully. Then identify the main topics and keywords. Next, spend some time exploring what information is available before you begin writing.

Starting early has another advantage. If you cannot find enough information or feel unsure where to look, you still have time to ask for help.

2. Relying Too Much on Google/A.I.

Google and can be useful for finding background information. However, it should not be your main research tool for academic work.

Search engines do not always prioritise the most reliable or scholarly sources. As a result, you may find outdated information, opinion pieces, or websites that are not suitable for university assignments. A.I. is notorius for throwing up false information and hallucinations. Sometimes it can be useful to brainstorm ideas, but it is not a reliable source for well any sources!

Instead, begin with your university library (That’s us!). LibrarySearch gives you access to books, ebooks, peer-reviewed journal articles, and other trusted academic resources. Many resources are available online, so you can access them wherever you are studying.

You should also explore the subject databases and Libguides recommended for your discipline. These databases often contain specialist material that you may not find through a general web search.

Remember that librarians are experts in finding information. If you are struggling to locate good sources, ask for help. A short conversation could save you hours of searching.

3. Using Weak or Unreliable Sources

Not everything you read deserves a place in your assignment. Anyone can publish information online, but that does not make it accurate or trustworthy.

Before using a source, ask yourself a few simple questions. Who wrote it? Are they an expert in the subject? When was it published? Is the information supported by evidence? Has it been reviewed by other experts?

Peer-reviewed journal articles usually provide strong academic evidence because specialists have evaluated the research before publication. Books published by academic publishers are also excellent sources for many subjects.

That does not mean you should never use websites. Government organisations, professional bodies, charities, and official statistics can all provide valuable information. However, always evaluate the source before you include it in your work.

Choosing reliable sources will strengthen your arguments and improve the credibility of your assignment.

4. Searching with Only One Keyword

Many students type one word into LibrarySearch, look at the first few results, and assume there is not much available. In reality, the problem is often the search itself.

Good searching is flexible. Different authors use different terminology, so one search may miss valuable resources.

For example, if you are researching stress among university students, you could also search for wellbeing, mental health, higher education, academic pressure, or student support. Using quotation marks around phrases can also help you find more specific results.

Filters are equally useful. Narrow your results by publication date, resource type, subject, or peer-reviewed content to find the most relevant material more quickly.

If your first search does not work, do not give up. Adjust your keywords and try again. Small changes often produce much better results.

5. Forgetting to Keep Track of Your Sources

Few things are more frustrating than finding the perfect journal article and then forgetting where you found it.

Many students leave referencing until the end of an assignment. Unfortunately, this often means searching for sources all over again. It can also lead to incomplete references or accidental plagiarism.

Instead, keep organised from the beginning. Save useful articles as you find them. Record the details you will need for your reference list, including the author, title, publication date, and publisher or journal. Use EndNote or Mendeley to help.

You should also make notes in your own words rather than copying large sections of text. This helps you understand the material and reduces the risk of accidentally using someone else’s words without proper acknowledgement.

A little organisation at the start can save a great deal of time later.

Build Better Research Habits

Research is a skill that improves with practice. Every assignment helps you become more confident at finding, evaluating, and using information effectively.

Start early, search strategically, and choose reliable sources. Keep organised throughout your project, and ask for help when you need it. These simple habits will make your research more efficient and your assignments much stronger.

Remember that your library is here to support you at every stage of the research process. Whether you are writing your first essay or completing your dissertation, you do not have to figure everything out alone. Explore LibrarySearch, make use of your subject resources, and speak to your library team if you need guidance. We are always happy to help you find the information you need.

By Juliet Kinsey

Read more on Research with our article on The repository

Photo by Scott Graham on Unsplash

Top Video Games of All Time image of old video game consols

The Ultimate Dissertation Survival Guide

The mention of the word ‘dissertation’ alone is enough to drive fear and dread into the hearts of any final-year student studying at university level. With the depth of research required to effectively write a dissertation, as well as the often very high word count and number of references needed, it is understandable that many students will find this to be one of the most daunting assignments they will write and complete during their university career. It can essentially be defined and seen as an extended essay and detailed research project exploring a specific and often niche subject or area of research within academia. Fear not – we have compiled a short-but-sweet dissertation survival guide for all undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral students. This will include some brief advice and useful links to academic guidelines regarding how to structure, write and add references to your dissertation as well as tips on how to look after your own wellbeing and manage stress whilst working on such a significant and often challenging piece of work.

How to Structure, Write and Add References

The structure and references used in your dissertation hold just as much importance as the information, analysis and arguments written and included in it as well. The structure of any dissertation can often vary, but a standard structure usually consists of the following:

Table of Contents
Introduction
Literature Review
Methodology
Results
Discussion
Conclusion
Reference List
Appendices

Sections

Each section of your dissertation will normally be divided into chapters rather than short paragraphs. You can find recorded tutorials in our Workshops page on our My Napier webpages. These go into much more detail about what you should do and what is recommended to include in each chapter and section. Our LibGuide also has more information, useful tips, and guidelines on critical thinking, literature review, and APA 7th edition referencing. Effective referencing is also a fundamental part of writing a good dissertation. This is not just measured by the quantity of references but also the quality and variety used as well. Using a wide range of credible and varied sources and sources of evidence to back up your main arguments and points will definitely get you some bonus points later on!

References

For dissertations, the number of references and variety of material you will be expected to reference will far exceed what you are expected to in a standard essay. This can sometimes mean that managing and ensuring that you include all of those references can be a very overwhelming task when writing up and annotating your dissertation. Reference Management software such as EndNote and Mendeley can help you with this – these reference management systems allow you to import, organise and store references in a reference library for you to automatically extract and input references into your work as well as generate a bibliography or reference list as well. More information and guidelines can be found in our Reference Management LibGuide webpages as well as our Training and Events Calendar, where upcoming tutorials and workshops regarding how to use both reference management systems are advertised frequently. You can also sign up for these sessions through our Libcal as well.

Managing Stress and Wellbeing…

One of the most difficult parts of writing or working on any significant and lengthy piece of work is starting. It can be very easy to feel overwhelmed by the big word count or extensive volume of work required to write a dissertation. Nevertheless, here are some useful hints and tips below which may help you with managing stress and your wellbeing whilst conducting research for and writing your dissertation:

Start early: The earlier the better if possible! It will save you a lot of stress later – even if it means just starting to conduct all the research and planning in advance.
Do a little bit every day: Breaking it down into small, manageable tasks each day makes it feel a lot less daunting and, in this case, off-putting. For example, tell yourself you are going to write one chapter of your dissertation today and focus solely on finishing this chapter alone. You might find as well that once you get into the flow of writing this chapter, you may even end up finishing up another in the process! Psychologically, it often makes writing your dissertation feel a lot less overwhelming to do it this way too!
Choose a topic you are passionate about: The last thing you want when writing a huge research project about a specific subject area is to find it boring and a chore to write about. This can often end up reflecting in your work as well if it is a topic which you are not passionate about at all.
Take regular breaks and days off: Make time for fun, leisure and relaxation when you can. Go out with friends, spend an evening watching your favourite movie or series, go to the gym or for a run or walk every so often as well. Set some time aside to focus on your hobbies outside of education. Your brain will often still be thinking about and working on your dissertation in the background. You may even find inspiration and new ideas outside of a computer screen, pen and paper.

Class of 2026

07/07/2026 / mayagreen / 0 Comments

Class of 2026

Your Journey Begins! Congratulations, Class of 2026! Your years of dedication and hard work have finally culminated in this significant milestone, and we couldn’t be prouder of you. As we reflect on the countless study sessions, the frustrations of wrangling with printers, and the turning of pages filled with knowledge, we recognise just how much you deserve this moment. A heartfelt congratulations from the entire library team—we are cheering you on as you take your next steps! As you embark on this new chapter, we have a little reminder: Stay curious. Keep that thirst for knowledge alive, and never stop researching. You never know where your curiosity might lead you, and remember, our libraries will always be a welcoming space for you.

Join the ENU Alumni Network

Exciting things await you beyond graduation! The Edinburgh Napier University (ENU) alumni community is a vibrant network that spans the globe. The best part? You don’t need to worry about signing up; you’ll be automatically enrolled on your graduation day. Our Alumni Team is dedicated to helping graduates stay connected with each other and with the University. They create a wealth of opportunities for personal and professional development, allowing you to forge valuable connections.

Benefits of Being Part of the Alumni Community:

As a member of the alumni community, you’ll have access to numerous opportunities worldwide. Whether you want to expand your professional network, advance your career, support your business endeavours, reconnect with old friends, or simply relive your university experience, the Alumni Network has your back.

Engaging Events Programme Throughout the year:

The Alumni Team organises a wide array of international events. From business networking gatherings to program reunion celebrations and alumni receptions, there’s something for everyone. These events offer a fantastic chance to make connections and continue fostering those important relationships.

Career Support at Your Fingertips.

Don’t forget, even after you toss your cap in the air, you still have access to Student Futures’ career support for up to two years post-graduation. If entrepreneurship has caught your interest, you’ll benefit from lifelong access to Bright Red Triangle, the University’s enterprise hub. Plus, the Alumni Team offers digital networking groups to support you throughout your career journey.

Exploring Further Study Opportunities:

If you’re considering postgraduate study at Edinburgh Napier, we have good news! As an alumnus, you’re eligible for a 20% discount on tuition fees for the first year of a full-time course (terms and conditions apply). Additionally, alumni can apply for free library access during the 12 months following graduation. After that, you can maintain access to our library resources at a 50% discount, allowing you full use of library books and study spaces for just £20. Please keep in mind that electronic resources aren’t included in this offer.

Stay Connected Class of 2026

These perks are just a glimpse into the many ways the Alumni Team supports the Edinburgh Napier alumni community. To stay in the loop about opportunities and benefits, we encourage you to keep your contact information up to date and follow our alumni social media channels. This way, you’ll be the first to know about the latest news, events, and exciting opportunities. And remember, education doesn’t have to end here. If you are interested in furthering your studies, why not consider pursuing a postgraduate degree at Napier? The journey of learning never truly stops! Here’s to your bright future ahead. Congratulations again, Class of 2026!

International Women in Engineering Day

23/06/2026 / julietkinsey / 1 Comment

International Women in Engineering Day

Celebrating Women Engineers: Breaking Barriers, Building Futures

Every year on 23 June, we celebrate International Women in Engineering Day. First launched in the UK by the Women’s Engineering Society, it’s now a global movement. It shines a light on the achievements of women in engineering and encourages more girls and young women to see this as a path for them.

The numbers are improving, but slowly. According to EngineeringUK, women make up 16.5% of the engineering workforce. In 2010, it was just 9%. There’s progress, but much more work is needed.

So, why does it matter?

Diverse teams are better at solving problems. They bring fresh ideas, challenge assumptions, and drive innovation. In engineering, where solutions shape lives—that matters. Gender diversity isn’t a tick-box exercise; it’s essential for future-ready industries.

The UK is home to many trailblazers. Dr. Nike Folayan MBE, co-founder of the Association for Black and Minority Ethnic Engineers (AFBE-UK), champions inclusion across STEM fields. Professor Sarah Hainsworth, a forensic engineering expert and senior leader at the University of Bath, is another standout figure. Their stories are powerful. But for many young women, engineering still feels out of reach.

Education

To get women into engineering, we need to start with early education. A 2022 WISE report showed that girls are much less likely to choose A-level physics, despite doing just as well as boys in GCSE science. Why? A lack of role models. Limited exposure. Persistent stereotypes.

This is where schools, universities, and employers can make a real difference.

Edinburgh Napier University and Women in STEM

At Edinburgh Napier University, change is happening. The School of Computing, Engineering & the Built Environment offers strong support for women entering technical fields. From dedicated mentoring schemes to outreach in schools, the university actively promotes gender balance. Female lecturers and researchers at Napier lead projects in sustainable energy, transport systems, and digital engineering.

Take for example, the work of female PhD students at Napier who are developing smart materials for construction or working on green transport solutions. Their research not only contributes to global challenges but also inspires the next generation of engineers.

Sarah Taylor, a lecturer at Edinburgh Napier University, has been conducting research in smart, light-emitting textiles since 1995. Her work involves integrating optical fibres into woven textile structures, contributing to advancements in smart materials applicable in various fields, including construction.

In 2023, a team of Edinburgh Napier University students participated in a pioneering construction project in Guangxi, China. They collaborated with local universities to build the world’s first bamboo-timber composite gridshell structure. This innovative project aimed to explore sustainable building methods to combat climate change. Among the participants were female students like Devika Vijayan, Alice June Davyson, and Zara Anam Rafiq, who contributed their expertise in architectural technology and civil engineering. The project was led by PhD student Yanghao Pei and supervised by faculty members, including Dr. Ahmed Mohamed.

Women in Engineering campaigns

Elsewhere in the UK, campaigns like Tomorrow’s Engineers Week, run by EngineeringUK, and events such as She Can Engineer at UCL, continue to highlight female success in the field. INWED itself is packed with virtual events, talks, and case studies—many of them accessible to teachers, students, and parents.

At the same time, the industry is evolving. Companies like Arup, Rolls-Royce, and AtkinsRéalis are investing in inclusive hiring, leadership development for women, and mentoring programmes. But culture still matters. A welcoming workplace—where all voices are heard—makes it easier for women to succeed and lead.

And it’s not just about big firms. Start-ups and SMEs across Scotland and the UK are building inclusive teams, often led by women who studied at universities like Edinburgh Napier.

So, what can you do this International Women in Engineering Day?

Share a story of a woman engineer who inspires you.
Encourage a girl to explore STEM subjects.
Attend a local or virtual event through WES or your local university.
Support or volunteer with STEM outreach programmes.
Thank the mentors, colleagues, and leaders who make a difference.

Small actions lead to big changes.

Because the future of engineering isn’t defined by gender—it’s built by collaboration, creativity, and courage. Edinburgh Napier University and institutions across the UK are proving that when you back women in engineering, you’re backing innovation for everyone.

By Juliet Kinsey

Read more on women in Science on our blog here: Scottish Women in Science

University Mental Health Day

13/03/2026 / julietkinsey / 0 Comments

University Mental Health Day

University Mental Health DayThe twelfth of March 2026 marked the 18^th annual University Mental Health Day, a day dedicated to raising visibility of mental health issues among student communities, and to combat stigma associated with discussions of mental health.

Originally started by members of the University Mental Health Advisers Network (UMHAN). University Mental Health Day has been held every March since 2008 and has grown to cover campuses across the UK, with mental health activist group Student Minds officially becoming involved since 2012.

So, to mark this year’s University Mental Health Day, we’re going to talk a little about this year’s UMHD theme and tell you about all the ways that Edinburgh Napier can support your mental health during your time studying with us.

This Year’s Theme

Every year, a new theme is selected to focus that year’s University Mental Health Day events. For example, 2024 was centred around the theme of anxiety, with an emphasis on the scenarios students encounter that can cause them to feel anxious, and discussing the techniques students can learn to manage their anxiety.

This year’s theme is human connection, focusing on the issue of university students reporting increased feelings of isolation, and the role of student communities in combatting these feelings of isolation. Despite how large the student population is, government reporting indicates that many students have experienced increased feelings of loneliness over the past few years, along with a fear that they would be judged by others if they express these feelings. This is despite the same government studies indicating that the vast majority of students wouldn’t want to judge others for feeling lonely, highlighting how important it is to reassure students of the support they can get in their own community.

University Mental Health Day at Edinburgh Napier

SMHA

Here at Napier, we have our Student Mental Health Agreement (SMHA) created in collaboration between our Counselling and Wellbeing staff and the members of the Edinburgh Napier Student Association (ENSA) to lay out the goals and activities for both teams and to guarantee the mental health services the university provides to the student population.

You can learn about the SMHA (and read it for yourself!) on the NapierStudents website.

The current edition of the SMHA has been in place since 2024, ensuring that the university offers a range of services through our Counselling & Wellbeing team to support students during their studies. These include counselling services, single session therapy services where students can discuss a specific issue they are having, as well as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy aimed at helping you tackle unhelpful thought patterns.

You can learn all about these services on the MyNapier Wellbeing, Support & Inclusion page, where you’ll also find contact details for our Wellbeing support teams and links to pages that will explain our wellbeing resources in greater depth.

Togetherall

Also, as part of the SMHA, the university provides all our students with access to Togetherall. A 24/7 online community where you’ll have access to free online support, allowing you to talk with others and receive advice in a safe and anonymous environment.

Fittingly for this year’s theme, one of the main goals of the 2024-2026 SMHA is to help nurture a sense of community and belonging in the student population through increasing participation in student-run events and student clubs/societies.

Clubs & Societies

Speaking from experience, becoming involved in a university club or society can be a great way to connect with students who have similar hobbies and interests to you. Some of the greatest friendships I have come from my own participation in different university clubs during my undergraduate studies. I’ve no doubt that many of you who aren’t currently involved in any clubs would benefit from doing so.

You can see what clubs and societies are on offer at Napier at the ENSA website. I’d also recommend the ENSA Events Calendar to see if there are any upcoming student events that might catch your interest.

The Library

Additionally, we have our Wellbeing Collection at each of our campus libraries, with books advising you on how to look after your mental, emotional, and physical health. Furthermore, several members of our library team are trained mental health first aiders, prepared to offer you support whenever you need it.

So please, if you’re ever feeling lonely during your time at Napier, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

By Matthew Ferrie

Read more about wellbeing on the blog with our article: Wellbeing in the library

Healthy Eating Guide for Students

02/03/2026 / julietkinsey / 0 Comments

Healthy Eating Guide for Students

When preparing for exams and assignment deadlines, it is particularly important to feed and fuel your body as well as your brain. Eating well and eating satiating meals is essential for boosting your cognitive function, concentration, memory and energy levels when studying – many studies have shown that eating a satiating breakfast on the day of an exam and staying adequately hydrated can boost exam performance and results.

With regards to the basics of healthy eating, you should ultimately ensure that you are eating plenty of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats. As we care about your academic career and aim to help you get the best out of your studies, we have put together this blog post on how to utilise food as fuel to help maximise your chances of achieving the best grades possible, as well as get the best out of university life and your time with us here at Edinburgh Napier University, too!

The 5 key elements of healthy eating

There are at least five key elements of eating a healthy diet:

Water

After all, we are made up of 70% water! Particularly, our brains and blood which is 90% water. A typical guideline for staying adequately hydrated is to drink at least 2 litres of water a day. It helps us to flush out toxins from our bodies, aid our digestion and avoid experiencing the often-debilitating side effects that come with dehydration, such as fatigue, dizziness, impaired concentration, lower energy levels and headaches. You can get roughly 30% of your required daily fluid intake by consuming lots of fruit and vegetables; however, it is recommended that you also drink lots of fluids as well, with water being the most efficient and cost-effective option. Herbal and fruit teas are also a good source of hydration.

Fibre

This is essential for your gut health, a healthy digestive system and regulating bowel movements as well as your blood sugar levels. Since a majority of your immune system is based in your gut as well, this makes fibre a stable part of keeping your gut bacteria healthy, as well as your immune health. Most of us generally do not get enough fibre in our diet – you need at least 30g to reach the recommended daily intake. Nevertheless, a diet high in fruit and vegetables can help reach this, followed by foods such as brown rice, brown pasta, wholegrain or rye bread, beans, pulses, lentils, nuts and seeds. Most of these can be incorporated into a variety of meals, such as curries and casseroles.

Fats

Fat is a fundamental element of a healthy diet – we need it for our bodies to produce hormones, which reduce inflammation. Examples of good-quality fats include olive oil, nuts such as almonds and peanuts, oily fish such as salmon and sardines, and avocados. Saturated fats are okay in moderation – these include fatty cuts of meat and poultry, butter, cream, cheese, and baked goods. These do offer some health benefits themselves, but too much can heighten your risk of stroke and heart disease.

Protein

This macronutrient is essential for maintaining muscle mass, healthy skin and bones as it acts as a vital building block which aids with growth, immune and cell function, repair and enzyme/hormone production. It also provides a satiating source of food, which keeps us fuller for longer. Some of the best quality sources of protein include the following: Milk, eggs, yoghurt, chicken, turkey, beans, pulses, nuts, seeds, fish and seafood, beef and soya (a good dairy alternative)!

Colour

As the saying goes – eat the rainbow! You should try to eat a variety of different coloured foods as they each offer a range of different benefits for your health as well as disease risk reduction. For example, orange and yellow fruits such as mangos, carrots, sweet potatoes and peaches contain carotenoids which our bodies convert into vitamin A – an essential nutrient for maintaining our eye health and vision, immunity, skin health and cell growth.

Red, blue and purple fruits and vegetables have various properties that are preventative against some forms of cancer – blue and purple ones are also thought to be preventative against dementia as well. Some examples of these fruits and vegetables consist of tomatoes, apples, black grapes, plums, blueberries, aubergine and red berries.

Then there’s green foods such as kale, spinach, broccoli and cucumber, which support your vision, keep your bones strong and can be preventative against some forms of cancer as well as blood clotting.

Recommendations

We have some great reads and recipe books if you are looking for some inspiration and to improve your nutritional intake. All of these titles can be found and requested through our LibrarySearch catalogue.

Cooking on a bootstrap: over 100 simple, budget recipes. Monroe, Jack (Journalist), author. 2018. Available at Craiglockhart, Merchiston and Sighthill Campus Libraries.
Eat Up! Tandoh, Ruby, author. 2018. Available at Craiglockhart, Merchiston and Sighthill Campus Libraries.
The female factor: making women’s health count – and what it means for you. Wallace, Hazel, author.; Mayson, Lizzie, photographer (expression); Food medic, associated with work. 2022. Available at Sighthill Campus Library.

You can find more recommendations in our Wellbeing Collection, and why not check out the Virtual Relaxation Space too?

By Rachel Downie

Photo by Vanessa Loring on Pexels

Spring Dissertation Studies

25/02/2026 / julietkinsey / 0 Comments

Spring Dissertation Studies

The worst of the winter is behind us, and spring is almost here! That does, however, mean that you will have assignments to do. Your dissertation hand in date is fast approaching, so the library is here to help. There’s lots of information on our web pages which can help with all your information gathering and writing.

Library Search

We have an extensive book stock, which can be requested using Library Search and many different titles on how to plan and write a dissertation. Books which are not at your home campus can be requested using the Click and Collect service and collected from the Click and Collect shelf at your chosen campus. Library Search also gives access to electronic articles to help with your studies. There are database and journal search functions and facets to allow you to refine your searches by date, format, etc.

Other libraries

If you know there is an item you are interested in looking at and it is available at another university, then the Sconul Access scheme may help. This allows you to borrow books from or have reference access to other university libraries, and applications can be made through the Sconul Access website. It may also be useful to become a member of the National Library of Scotland. With access to millions of print and digital items, it is certainly worth searching here for information, and it is easy to join.

Inter library loans

Unable to access a book or journal article through Library Search? Is it too far to travel to another university? You could try requesting the item from our interlibrary loan service, and we will try to source it from one of our partner libraries. Articles and book chapters are supplied electronically, and print books will be sent to the campus of your choice.

Subject librarians

Taken a look at the Reference Guidelines, but still need some help with referencing? Our subject librarians can assist, and they also have in-depth knowledge of databases and literature reviewing. They have prepared LibGuides for each school, full of useful information and links. Subject guides provide access to subject information by school, and Research guides offer tips on how to develop research and digital information skills.

Training and events

Check out Training and Events calendar to find out if there are any sessions you may find useful.

Opening hours and contacts

Libraries are currently observing term time hours with 24 hour opening at Merchiston campus for those who need a suitable place to work at any time.

To contact your subject librarian or for general library enquiries: My Librarian

Out-of-hours assistance is also provided by the NorMAN service: Out of hours

For general library enquiries and information:

Email: library@napier.ac.uk
Telephone 0131 455 3500
Follow us on Instagram @ENU_Library

Wellbeing

At this time important to take care of your wellbeing as you may be working hard for long periods of time. Creating a work routine and setting achievable goals can help with your work schedule. Make detailed plans and stick to them remembering to take breaks, keep active and eat well and get enough good quality sleep. Here in the library we have several books in our Wellbeing Collection to provide all the information you need to look after yourself ranging from healthy eating to stress management.

Each campus library has a Relaxation Space where you can take some time out if you are working on campus. There are jigsaws and colouring sheets to help you de-stress and our Virtual Relaxation Space can be accessed from outwith the university. It offers links tips on mindfulness, breathing exercises, relaxing music and more!

Sleep

Getting enough quality sleep is also important. Lack of sleep can affect you and some of the consequences of this are:

Irritability
Daytime fatigue
Increased anxiety
Trouble concentrating
Lack of creativity
Negative impact on your overall mental health

Staying awake for 18 hours can have the same effect as a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.05%, which is the same as the Scottish drink drive limit. Staying awake for 24 hours can equate to a BAC of 0.10% which is well over it so for getting off to sleep the following tips are worth considering:

Consistency-try going to bed at the same time and waking up at the same time each morning
Make sure your bedroom is quiet and at a comfortable temperature.
Remove electronic devices an hour before you want to sleep.
Exercise during the day.
Avoid alcohol, caffeine or large meals before sleeping.
Structure your day and plan ahead of your exams, assignments and due dates and activities so you don’t end up cramming or working late into the night.

Always remember help is at hand:

For research advice and to contact your subject librarian: Subject Librarian

For help with academic writing and skills: Improve your academic & study skills

For mental wellbeing: Counselling & Mental Wellbeing

We wish all our students the best of luck with their submissions and exams.

By Vivienne Hamilton

Read more on Study Help in our post: Academic skills and study support

Scottish Women in Science

11/02/2026 / julietkinsey / 0 Comments

Scottish Women in Science

To celebrate International Women and Girls in Science Day, let’s celebrate some amazing Scottish female Scientists.

Scotland has a rich history of scientific achievements, and Scottish women have played a pivotal role in shaping these accomplishments. From groundbreaking discoveries to innovative research, these remarkable women have defied societal norms and overcome countless obstacles to leave an indelible mark on the field of science.

Historical Scottish Women Pioneers in Science

Even in times when opportunities for women were severely limited, Scottish women managed to push the boundaries and excel in various scientific disciplines. One such pioneer was Mary Somerville, who became a renowned mathematician and astronomer in the 19th century. Her work in celestial mechanics and her influential book “The Mechanism of the Heavens” significantly contributed to our understanding of the universe.

Another trailblazer was Elizabeth Blackwell, who became the first woman to graduate from medical school in the United States in 1849. Born in Aberdeen, Scotland, Blackwell faced immense challenges and discrimination in her pursuit of a medical career. Her determination and resilience not only opened doors for women in medicine but also paved the way for future generations of female physicians.

In the field of medicine, Dr. Elsie Inglis revolutionised healthcare by establishing the Scottish Women’s Hospitals during World War I. Her tireless efforts saved countless lives and challenged the prevailing gender norms of the time.

Modern Scottish Women Making Strides in the Scientific World

Professor Linda Bauld is a public health expert, Bauld has been instrumental in shaping Scotland’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Her research on public health behaviour and interventions has had a significant impact on policy both in Scotland and internationally.

In the realm of environmental science, Professor Sheila Rowan has made groundbreaking discoveries in gravitational wave detection. Her research has opened up new possibilities for studying the universe, earning her international acclaim and recognition.

The primatologist and neuroethologist Professor Dame Anne Glover is a world-leading expert on animal behaviour and cognition. She has served as Chief Scientific Adviser to the UK Government and has received many honours and awards.

Scientists of Edinburgh Napier University

Edinburgh Napier University is home to many talented women scientists who are making significant contributions in various fields.

Prof Yvonne Kuipers, Professor of Midwifery, has over 20 years of experience in women’s reproductive health. She has conducted research on a variety of topics, including home birth, traumatic childbirth experiences, and midwifery-led care.
Dr. Fiona Lees, Professor of Occupational Therapy, is an expert in disability studies. She has conducted research on a variety of topics, including wheelchair use, falls prevention, and social care.
Prof Emma Hart is a professor of computational intelligence here at Edinburgh Napier. She is known for her work in artificial immune systems (AIS), evolutionary computation and optimisation.
Dr. Clare Taylor is a Senior Lecturer in Medical Microbiology and is a passionate advocate of equality and inclusion

These are just a few examples of the many accomplished women scientists working at Edinburgh Napier University. Their research is making a real difference in the world, and they are inspiring the next generation of female scientists. In addition to these individual researchers, Edinburgh Napier University is committed to supporting women in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) more broadly.

The university has several initiatives in place to encourage girls and young women to pursue careers in science. Such as the EQUATE Scotland program, which provides mentoring and support to women in the built environment, engineering, technology, and science sectors.

Celebrating the Achievements of Scottish Women in Science

Scottish women have played a vital role in shaping the scientific world. Defying societal expectations and making groundbreaking discoveries. From the pioneers of the past to the trailblazers of today, their contributions have paved the way for future generations of scientists. It is crucial to celebrate and recognise their achievements, while also working towards creating a more inclusive and equitable scientific community. By supporting and empowering Scottish women in science, we can ensure that their remarkable legacy continues to inspire and drive scientific progress for years to come.

Join us in celebrating the achievements of Scottish women in science by sharing their stories and advocating for gender equality in STEM fields. Together, we can break down barriers and create a more inclusive scientific community.

By Juliet Kinsey

Campus guide

Merchiston Campus

Craiglockhart Campus

Sighthill Campus

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Five Research Mistakes Students Make (and How to Avoid Them)

1. Starting Your Research Too Late

2. Relying Too Much on Google/A.I.

3. Using Weak or Unreliable Sources

4. Searching with Only One Keyword

5. Forgetting to Keep Track of Your Sources

Build Better Research Habits

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Top Video Games of All Time (according to us)

There’s a Stat for that

What Makes a Video Game Great?

Grand Theft Auto V

Minecraft

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

Tetris

Super Mario Bros.

The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim

Stardew Valley

Edinburgh Napier University and the Future of Gaming

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The Ultimate Dissertation Survival Guide

How to Structure, Write and Add References

Sections

References

Managing Stress and Wellbeing…

Recommended Reads

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Class of 2026

Join the ENU Alumni Network

Benefits of Being Part of the Alumni Community:

Engaging Events Programme Throughout the year:

Career Support at Your Fingertips.

Exploring Further Study Opportunities:

Stay Connected Class of 2026

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International Women in Engineering Day

Celebrating Women Engineers: Breaking Barriers, Building Futures

So, why does it matter?

Education

Edinburgh Napier University and Women in STEM

Women in Engineering campaigns

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University Mental Health Day

This Year’s Theme

University Mental Health Day at Edinburgh Napier

SMHA

Togetherall

Clubs & Societies

The Library

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Healthy Eating Guide for Students

The 5 key elements of healthy eating

Water

Fibre

Fats

Protein

Colour

Recommendations

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Spring Dissertation Studies

Library Search

Other libraries

Inter library loans

Subject librarians

Training and events

Opening hours and contacts

Wellbeing