Associate Fellow Professor Charles Foster shortlisted for Wainwright Prize
Associate Fellow Professor Charles Foster’s book ‘The Screaming Sky’ has been shortlisted for the Wainwright Prize for UK Nature Writing.
The awards are named after the nature writer Alfred Wainwright and celebrate books which inspire readers to explore the outdoors and nurture a respect for the natural world.
Charles’ book ‘The Screaming Sky’, published by Little Toller, is a study of Common Swifts. It documents Charles’ journey as he follows them across the world, exploring their movements.
The full shortlist of books can be found on the Wainwright Prize website.
This year’s Nature Writing judging panel is chaired by TV presenter Julia Bradbury. The winners’ ceremony will be held on 7 September at The London Wetlands Centre. Alongside the UK Nature Writing prize winner, the winner of the Wainwright Prize for Writing on Global Conservation will also be announced.
In addition to being an Associate Fellow of Green Templeton, Charles is a Visiting Professor at the Oxford Law Faculty, Senior Research Associate at the Uehiro Institute for Practical Ethics and a Research Associate at the Ethox Centre and the Helex Centre.
He is a qualified veterinarian, practising barrister and writer of both fiction and non-fiction.
Charles’ new book, ‘Being a Human: Adventures in 40,000 Years of Consciousness’ is published on 26 August. In this book, Charles sets out to understand what a human is, inhabiting the sensory worlds of humans at three pivotal points in history from hunter-gatherers to the Neolithic to the Enlightenment.
As conservation work continues on the Radcliffe Observatory, we were delighted to climb to the very top of the impressive scaffold and enjoy a unique perspective on this iconic landmark.
Along the way, we uncovered some fascinating details—and a few cheeky surprises—carved into parts of the stonework. ✨
These hidden marks offer a glimpse into the stories, craftsmanship, and personalities that have become part of the building’s rich history. Stay tuned as we continue to share more behind-the-scenes moments from this remarkable conservation project.
Congratulations to all of the @gtcball2026 survivors 🪼🫧🪸🧜🌊✨
From the ocean floor to the dance floor 🌊🪸🫧💙🧜 🐙🪼
We had an incredible evening at the Nautilus Ball! @gtcball2026
The Radcliffe Observatory is having a conservation makeover...
Behind the printed wrap is a complex network of poles and platforms, giving specialist teams access to every part of this remarkable building.
The Observatory is now undergoing a new phase of work that combines careful conservation of its historic fabric with major environmental upgrades.
Protecting one of Oxford`s most iconic landmarks for generations to come. 🏛️
Over the past week, we have celebrated the extraordinary Green Templeton community through events, volunteering, competitions, challenges and fundraising for student support. It has been wonderful to see alumni, fellows, supporters, friends, staff and students coming together to show our support for students.
From the Garden Party and the Photography Competition, to the Memory Wall and Biscuit Decorating Competition, the week has been filled with moments that reflect the warmth, inclusivity and spirit of our college.
Thank you to everyone who made a gift, attended an event, volunteered their time or followed along throughout the week. Together, we have raised over £65,000 for student support. These gifts will help students pursue opportunities, navigate financial pressures, participate fully in college life and thrive during their time at Oxford.
#ThankYou
#GivingWeek
#Fundraising
#StudentSupport
#Oxford
