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Imperial College London

Public research university in London, England.
Public research university in London, England.
Imperial College London, established in 1907, focuses on science, engineering, medicine, and business. It has a main campus in South Kensington and a second campus in White City. The college has teaching hospitals throughout London and became an independent university in 2007. With an international community, it attracts students from over 140 countries.
1823
Establishment of Charing Cross Hospital Medical School
Charing Cross Hospital Medical School was founded in 1823 during a meeting led by Dr. Benjamin Golding. The school aimed to provide medical education and training facilities to address the lack of a University in West London for medical studies.
1834
Westminster Hospital Medical School opened
In 1834, Westminster Hospital Medical School was opened.
1845
Royal College of Science founded by Prince Albert
The Royal College of Science was established in 1845 by Prince Albert, the husband of Queen Victoria.
1851
Creation of the Royal School of Mines
The Government School of Mines and of Science as Applied to the Arts was established in 1851 by Sir Henry de la Beche. He was also instrumental in founding the Geological Survey of Great Britain, overseeing the Museum of Economic Geology, the Library of the Museum and Survey, and the Mining Record Office.
1853
Merger of Royal College of Chemistry and Royal School of Mines
In 1853, the Royal College of Chemistry merged with the Royal School of Mines, leading to the continuation of teaching at the Oxford Street premises until the relocation of School of Mines teaching to South Kensington in 1872.
1854
John Snow identifies source of Golden Square cholera outbreak
In 1854, John Snow identified the water supply in Broad Street as the source of the Golden Square cholera outbreak. By shutting down the contaminated water pumps, Snow successfully controlled the epidemic.
1881
Establishment of the Normal School of Science
In 1881, the Normal School of Science was established in South Kensington under the leadership of Thomas Huxley, taking over responsibility for the teaching of the natural sciences and agriculture from the Royal School of Mines.
1884
City and Guilds College founded
The City and Guilds College was established in 1884 as an independent institution.
1890
Renaming of the Normal School of Science to Royal College of Science
The Normal School of Science was renamed the Royal College of Science by royal consent in 1890.
1898
1851 Commission offers land for construction of building
In 1898, the 1851 Commission proposed offering land valued at £100,000 opposite the Imperial Institute for the construction of a building, contingent on government funding availability.
1900
Central Technical College becomes part of University of London
The Central Technical College, focused on providing technical education, became a school of the University of London in 1900. This integration marked a step towards the establishment of Imperial College of Science and Technology in the following years.
1902
Publication of The Balancing of Engines
William Ernest Dalby studied Engine Balancing between 1896 and 1904, and published the book The Balancing of Engines in 1902. He produced two, three, and four cylinder Balancing Engines, using them as teaching tools and working machines.
1904-02
Departmental Committee to investigate RSM, RCS, and C&G
In 1904, the Board of Education established a Departmental Committee to assess the potential integration of the Royal School of Mines, the Royal College of Science, and the City and Guilds College. The committee's preliminary report in February 1905 favored merging the three institutions into one, contingent on support from various entities.
1905-11
Government funding confirmed for integration
In November 1905, the government officially approved funding for the integration of the Royal School of Mines, the Royal College of Science, and the City and Guilds College into a single institution. This financial support was a crucial step towards the realization of the merger.
1906-01
Final Report recommending institution merger
The Departmental Committee's final report in January 1906 recommended the consolidation of the Royal School of Mines, the Royal College of Science, and the City and Guilds College into a unified entity. The 1851 Commissioners were also involved in providing land for the new institution.
1907-03-26
Reading of Draft Charter of Imperial College at Old RSM Old Students Dinner
On 26 March 1907, at the Old Royal School of Mines old students dinner, the President of the Board of Education, Mr McKenna, read out parts of a draft of the Charter of Imperial College.
1907-07-01
Issuance of List of Members of the Governing Body
On 1 July 1907, a list of members of the Governing Body was issued as part of the process leading to the establishment of Imperial College.
1907-07-08
Granting of Charter Forming Imperial College
The charter forming Imperial College was granted on 8 July 1907, marking a significant milestone in the establishment of the institution.
1908-06-06
Granting of the coat of arms of the college by King Edward VII
King Edward VII granted the coat of arms of the college on 6 June 1908 by royal warrant.
1908-07-22
Imperial College joins University of London
The college joined the University of London on 22 July 1908, with the City and Guilds College joining in 1910.
1909-07
Laying of the foundation stone for the Royal School of Mines building by King Edward VII
The foundation stone for the Royal School of Mines building was laid by King Edward VII in July 1909.
1910-11
Original Students Union building designed by Sir Aston Webb
The original Students Union building in the north of the quad was designed by Sir Aston Webb and built in 1910-11. The idea for a building came from Sir Arthur Acland, a member of the governing body, who emphasized the importance of a place for students to meet and develop a social life.
1911
Alfred John Sutton Pippard started working for Pontypridd and Rhondda Joint Water Board
In 1911, Alfred John Sutton Pippard began working for the Pontypridd and Rhondda Joint Water Board after being educated at Bristol University.
1912
Foundation of Imperial College Dramatic Society (DramSoc)
The Imperial College Dramatic Society (DramSoc) was founded in 1912 and is one of the major theatrical arts societies at Imperial College. It organizes multiple plays and fringe productions throughout the year.
1913
Became a Fellow of the Royal Society
William Ernest Dalby became a Fellow of the Royal Society in 1913, recognizing his significant contributions to the field of engineering. This prestigious honor highlighted his expertise and influence in the scientific community.
1914
Completion of east side for botany, plant pathology, and physiology departments
The east side of the building was completed in 1914 to house the departments of botany, plant pathology, and physiology. This expansion aimed to provide dedicated spaces for these scientific disciplines within the college.
1919-12-12
Founding of Imperial College Boat Club
Imperial College Boat Club was founded on December 12, 1919, with Charles Bristow initiating a lifelong connection with the Club. It was formed through the amalgamation of the three constituent College boat clubs.
1920
Rector of Imperial College
Became the Rector of Imperial College in 1920 and played a key role in getting the Associateship recognized as qualifying for the BSc degree with Honours by the University of London. He also contributed to the establishment of the College Hostel.
1922
George Ingle Finch's climb on Mallory's Everest Expedition
George Ingle Finch used his lighter weight oxygen supply equipment during Mallory's 1922 Everest Expedition, reaching over 8000m. This was the first expedition to be equipped with such oxygen supply equipment.
1923
First win of Imperial College Boat Club at Henley Royal Regatta
Imperial College Boat Club achieved its first victory at the Henley Royal Regatta in the 1923 Wyfold Challenge Cup.
1925
London University Agrees to Set Final Examinations for Imperial College Associateships
In 1925, London University agreed to set final examinations in subjects such as Aerodynamics, Aeronautical Engineering, Astrophysics, and others, in which Imperial College set its Associateships. This decision allowed students to receive recognition for their specialized courses.
1926-04
Opening of Student Hostel
In April 1926, a student hostel opened at Imperial College London with accommodation for 49 students and a warden.
1928
First Recorded Film Footage of Activities at Imperial College London
In 1928, the first recorded film footage of activities at Imperial College London was captured during Morphy Day. The footage includes scenes of rowing at Putney and Sports Day at Chelsea Football ground.
1929
Sir Henry Tizard's Rectorship at Imperial College
Sir Henry Tizard served as the Rector of Imperial College between 1929-1942. He was a chemist and mathematician who played a key role in national scientific institutions, aeronautics, and the development of radar technology.
1933
Appointment as Professor of Engineering at Imperial College London
In 1933, he joined Imperial College as Professor of engineering and Head of the Civil Engineering Department, focusing on reorganising and modernising structural analysis teaching methods.
1934
Hilary Bauerman Bequest
In 1934, the Hilary Bauerman Bequest was made, indicating a significant event or donation related to the college.
1936
Assistant Professor Mathematics at Imperial
Between 1936 and 1945, he served as an Assistant Professor of Mathematics at Imperial College London.
1939-10-17
Re-opening of College after War Declaration
After the declaration of war, new student admissions to the College were halted. However, on 17th October 1939, this decision was reversed and the College re-opened. Some courses were relocated, but instruction continued at South Kensington Department for students of other departments.
1941-09
Formation of "C" Company, 2 London, Home Guard at Imperial College
In September 1941, "C" Company, 2 London, Home Guard, known as Imperial's own company, was formed at Imperial College with the idea of students and later staff members joining to serve in the Home Guard Platoon during the Second World War.
1942
Sir Richard Vynne Southwell's Education and Career
Sir Richard Vynne Southwell, educated at Cambridge, excelled in Mathematical and Mechanical Science. He served in the Royal Naval Air Service during WWI and later worked at the Royal Aircraft Establishment Farnborough.
1944-05-13
Members of "C" Company at Buckingham Palace
On 13th and 14th May 1944, members of "C" Company, including Charles Benjamin Alcock, a Chemistry Undergraduate, were part of the King's Guard at Buckingham Palace.
1945-10
Visit of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth to Royal College of Science
In October 1945, King George VI and Queen Elizabeth visited the College to commemorate the centenary of the Royal College of Science, which is the oldest forerunner to Imperial College.
1946
Lord Penney of East Hendred appointed OBE
In 1946, Lord Penney of East Hendred was appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in recognition of his services to Britain.
1947
Acquisition of Silwood Park Campus
In 1947, Imperial College acquired Silwood Park as a Field Station for research and teaching in Biology. This acquisition was instrumental in expanding the college's facilities and resources.
1948
Rector of Imperial College London
In 1948, he retired from the RAF and took on the role of Rector at Imperial College London, where he emphasized the importance of a well-rounded education for students.
1949-12-09
Launch of Felix Student Newspaper
Felix, Imperial's student newspaper, was launched on 9 December 1949.
1950-01-29
Launch of Jubilee Expansion Scheme at Imperial College
On January 29, 1950, the government announced in the Commons the intention for Imperial College to expand to meet the scientific and technological challenges of the 20th century. The Rector, Sir Roderic Hill, initiated the Jubilee Expansion Scheme, which included the addition of new subjects like General Studies, Management Studies, and History for Science and Technology.
1952
Lord Penney of East Hendred appointed Knight Commander
In 1952, Lord Penney of East Hendred was appointed Knight Commander for his services to Britain.
1953-01-01
Government Mandate for Imperial College Expansion
Between 1953 and 1963, the government mandated Imperial College to double in size, with student numbers increasing to 3,000 by 1962. The Rectors during this period, Sir Roderick Hill and Sir Patrick Linstead, played key roles in meeting this challenge.
1954
Election as Fellow of the Royal Society (FRS)
In 1954, he was elected as a Fellow of the Royal Society, recognizing his significant contributions to the field of civil engineering.
1955-01-01
Donation of Jez to Royal College of Science Motor Club
In 1955, Jez was donated to the Royal College of Science Motor Club as its mascot. This donation added a symbolic touch to the club's identity and activities.
1957-12
Building Work Estimates in December 1957
In December 1957, estimates for building work included 85,000 cubic yards of cement, 3,250 tons of steel reinforcements, and 6 million bricks. However, disputes arose that were not easily resolved as Professor Blackett had hoped.
1959
Wolfson Foundation donation for Biochemistry Department
In 1959, the Wolfson Foundation provided £350,000 for the establishment of a new Biochemistry Department at an academic institution, with Sir Ernst Chain appointed as its inaugural Professor.
1960
Clem becomes Royal School of Mines mascot
In 1960, Clem joined the Royal School of Mines as its motorised mascot, adding a unique character to the institution.
1961
National Programme for Low-Power Nuclear Reactors
In 1961, the UK government announced a national programme to provide low-power nuclear reactors for universities and colleges of technology. Three reactors were approved, with one designated for the South of England. The University of London selected the Imperial College Field Station at Silwood Park to host the reactor.
1962
Funding of 'Consort' Reactor Project
The project to build the 100 kW 'Consort' Reactor Mark II at Imperial College was financed for an initial period of five years starting in 1962 by a grant from the Science Research Council and later supported by the University Grants Committee.
1963-10-08
Princess Margaret opens Southside, Electrical Engineering and Civil Engineering buildings
On October 8, 1963, HRH Princess Margaret inaugurated the Southside Halls of Residence, increasing student accommodation at Imperial College London. She also visited the Electrical Engineering and Civil Engineering buildings at South Kensington, where she witnessed demonstrations of bandwidth compression and viewed a model dam.
1965-11-04
Opening of Biochemistry Building by Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother
On November 4th, 1965, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother, Chancellor of London University, inaugurated the new Biochemistry Building at Imperial College London. She unveiled a commemorative plaque and received a bouquet from the children of Professor Ernst Chain, the head of the Biochemistry Department.
1967
Lord Penney of East Hendred appointed Rector of Imperial
Lord Penney of East Hendred was appointed as the Rector of Imperial College in 1967. He was recognized for his services to Britain with various honors including OBE, Knight Commander, and OM.
1968
Opening of Linstead Hall
Linstead Hall, originally known as New Hall, was opened in 1968 after being funded by an anonymous benefactor in 1963. It was named after Sir Patrick Linstead, who was the Rector responsible for obtaining the land for student accommodation.
1969-11
Opening of the College Block (Sherfield Building) and Library
In November 1969, the College Block, including the Administration and Library Buildings, was officially opened by Queen Elizabeth II.
1971
Completion of New Building at Imperial College
In 1971, a new building adjacent to the 'Consort' Reactor hall was finished at Imperial College, providing facilities such as radiochemistry and physics laboratories, workshops, and office and study spaces.
1972
Associated Studies Department created
In 1972, the Associated Studies Department was formed, with Sinclair Goodlad teaching technical expression to students in the Electrical Engineering Department. The department also focused on the development of foreign language teaching.
1976
Physics Building renamed Blackett Laboratory
In 1976, Prime Minister Harold Wilson delivered the Blackett Memorial Lecture and renamed the Physics Building to Blackett Laboratory.
1978
Department of Social And Economic Studies founded
Following the Huddie Report on non scientific subjects at Imperial, the Department of Social and Economic Studies was established, focusing on Industrial Sociology and Economics. Aubrey Silberston became the first Chair of Economics and Dorothy Wedderburn became the first Head of Department.
1979
Professor Abdus Salam awarded Nobel Prize in Physics
Professor Abdus Salam was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1979.
1980
Humanities Department opened
In 1980, the Humanities Department was established at Imperial College London, merging Associated Studies and History of Science. Professor David Raphael, a Philosopher, became the first Head of Department.
1982
Documentary about Silwood Park
A documentary was made about Silwood Park in 1982, showcasing its significance as a research and teaching site for Biology. This documentary likely highlighted the contributions and advancements made at the campus.
1988
Merger of Imperial College with St Mary's Hospital Medical School
In 1988, Imperial College merged with St Mary's Hospital Medical School under the Imperial College Act 1988, leading to changes in the formal name of the institution and the establishment of St Mary's as a constituent college.
1995
Merger of National Heart and Lung Institute with Imperial College
In 1995, the National Heart and Lung Institute merged with Imperial College, becoming one of the founding divisions of the School of Medicine. The merger led to pioneering research in heart, lung, and cardiovascular diseases, focusing on interdisciplinary work in biomedicine, biophysics, and bioengineering.
1996
Imperial College London wins University Challenge
In 1996, Imperial College London's team, led by captain Mark Pallen, along with team mates Jim Totty, Nick Bradshaw, and Chris Harrison, emerged victorious in the UK quiz show University Challenge by defeating LSE in the final.
1997
Formation of Imperial College School of Medicine
In 1997, the Imperial College School of Medicine was established.
1998
Opening of the Sir Alexander Fleming Building
The Sir Alexander Fleming Building was inaugurated in October 1998 by Her Majesty The Queen. It serves as a dedicated facility for medical and biomedical research at Imperial College London, designed by Sir Norman Foster and Partners.
2000-08-01
Merger of Wye College with Imperial College London
Wye College merged with Imperial College London on 1 August 2000. Wye College, founded in 1447, had a rich history starting as a college for training priests and later evolving into an agricultural school within the University of London.
2001
Imperial College team wins series championship
In 2001, the Imperial College team, consisting of Gavin Estcourt, John Douglas, Siegfried Hodgson, and Alexander Campbell, emerged as series champions by defeating St John's College, Oxford with a score of 250 to 195. They were awarded the trophy by Poet Laureate Andrew Motion.
2002-07
Establishment of Schistosomiasis Control Initiative (SCI) at Imperial College London
In July 2002, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation granted $30 million to establish the Schistosomiasis Control Initiative (SCI) at Imperial College London. The initiative aimed to combat the parasitic disease affecting millions of people in regions with poor water supply and sanitation.
2003
Imperial granted degree-awarding powers
In 2003, Imperial College was given the authority to award degrees independently by the Privy Council.
2004-06-24
Opening of College Main Entrance and Tanaka Business School
On June 24, 2004, Imperial College London officially opened its new Main Entrance and accommodation for the Tanaka Business School. The landmark building, designed by Foster and Partners, was made possible by a £27 million pledge by technology investor and Imperial alumnus Dr Gary Tanaka.
2005-12-09
Initiation of negotiations for Imperial to secede from University of London
On 9 December 2005, Imperial College announced its intention to start discussions to separate from the University of London.
2006-10-04
Imperial College's Withdrawal from University of London
Imperial College's Council decided to withdraw from the University of London and become an independent university. The request to withdraw was approved by the University of London's Council on October 4, 2006.
2007-10-01
Formation of Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust
Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust was established on 1 October 2007 through the merger of Hammersmith Hospitals NHS Trust and St Mary's NHS Trust with Imperial College London Faculty of Medicine. It manages several hospitals and is one of the largest in the UK.
2008
Imperial College London named home to greatest concentration of research
In 2008, Imperial College London was recognized as having the highest concentration of world-leading and internationally excellent research among all UK universities, based on the Research Assessment Exercise (RAE08) results.
2009
Wye Campus Closed
Due to a decrease in students pursuing agricultural-related courses, the Department of Agricultural Sciences at Wye closed in 2004, with all academic activities coming to an end in 2009.
2010-01-15
Opening of the Wohl Reach Out Lab
On January 15, 2010, the Wohl Reach Out Lab was opened. This event marked a significant milestone in the development of facilities at Imperial College London.
2011-04
Imperial and King's College London join UKCMRI
In April 2011, Imperial and King's College London became partners in the UK Centre for Medical Research and Innovation (UKCMRI) by each committing £40 million to the project.
2011-08
Kennedy Institute moves to the University of Oxford
In August 2011, the staff of the Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology transferred to the University of Oxford following an agreement between the College and the University. This marked the end of the Kennedy Institute's affiliation with the College.
2012-04
College unveils new leadership structure
In April 2012, Imperial College London introduced a new leadership arrangement that divided the responsibilities of the Rector into the roles of President and Provost.
2012-05
Inaugural Imperial Festival
In May 2012, Imperial College held its first Imperial Festival, a 2-day celebration showcasing the College's achievements and activities. The event provided opportunities for the public and stakeholders to interact with researchers, witness demonstrations, and enjoy various forms of entertainment.
2012-09
Opening of Wood Lane Studios postgraduate accommodation at Imperial West
In September 2012, Wood Lane Studios, a postgraduate accommodation facility at Imperial West, was inaugurated. This development aimed to provide housing for postgraduate students at Imperial College, enhancing the overall campus experience.
2013-03
Establishment of Brevan Howard Centre for Financial Analysis
The Brevan Howard Centre for Financial Analysis was created in March 2013 through a generous donation of £20.1 million from Brevan Howard, a prominent hedge fund founded by Imperial alumnus Alan Howard.
2013-06
Expansion of Imperial West
In June 2013, Imperial College purchased 11.5 acres in White City to expand its new campus, White City Campus, bringing the total landholding to approximately 25 acres.
2013-08
First Cohort Admitted to LKCMedicine in Singapore
In August 2013, the Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine (LKCMedicine) in Singapore, a collaboration between Imperial College London and Nanyang Technological University (NTU), welcomed its inaugural group of 54 students for a five-year Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) program. These students will graduate with a joint degree from both institutions, marking the first overseas degree course developed and delivered by Imperial.
2014-12
Imperial College's Research Excellence Framework (REF) Results
In December 2014, Imperial College London achieved its best research performance as assessed by the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2014. The results revealed that 91% of Imperial's research was rated as 'world-leading' or 'internationally excellent' (4* and 3*), the highest percentage among major universities in the UK. Additionally, the College demonstrated the highest concentration of high-impact research in the country.
2015-03
Creation of Dyson School of Design Engineering
In March 2015, the Dyson School of Design Engineering was established at Imperial College London with a £12 million donation from the James Dyson Foundation. The school offers a unique four-year undergraduate Masters degree program in Design Engineering, focusing on combining technical expertise with creativity.
2016-11-09
Opening of the Francis Crick Institute
The UK Centre for Medical Research and Innovation (UKCMRI) was renamed the Francis Crick Institute and officially opened on 9 November 2016. It is the largest single biomedical laboratory in Europe.
2017
Centenary site nominated for a Webby Award
The Centenary site of Imperial College was nominated for a prestigious Webby Award in 2017.
2018-01
Launch of UMI Abraham de Moivre at Imperial
In January 2018, the mathematics department of Imperial College London and the French National Center for Scientific Research established UMI Abraham de Moivre at Imperial, a joint research laboratory focusing on unsolved mathematical problems and fostering collaboration between British and French scientific communities.
2018-10
Inauguration of Imperial Cancer Research UK Center
In October 2018, Imperial College London launched the Imperial Cancer Research UK Center, a research initiative aimed at enhancing the precision of cancer treatments. The center was inaugurated by Joe Biden as part of his Biden Cancer Initiative.
2019
Opening of Molecular Sciences Research Hub at White City campus
The Molecular Sciences Research Hub for the Department of Chemistry was officially opened in 2019 at the White City campus, with Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, presiding over the ceremony.
2020-03-16
Neil Ferguson's COVID-19 Report
On 16th March 2020, Neil Ferguson's report titled 'Impact of non-pharmaceutical interventions to reduce COVID-19 mortality and healthcare demand' gained attention in the U.S. and the U.K. The report was highlighted for its influence on shaping responses to the coronavirus pandemic.
2020-11-24
Bullying Allegations and Cover-Up
In November 2020, bullying allegations resurfaced at Imperial College when a report by Jane McNeill QC revealed misconduct under the leadership of President Alice Gast and the Chief Financial Officer. The college faced accusations of a cover-up when it refused to publish the report.
2021-02-14
Formal Investigation by OfS
On 14 February 2021, the Office for Students (OfS) announced a formal investigation into allegations of bullying at Imperial College. This investigation marked a significant step in addressing the ongoing concerns of bullying within the institution.
2023
QS MBA Rankings: Career Specialisation in Entrepreneurship
Imperial College London achieved the 3rd position worldwide and 1st in Europe in the QS MBA Rankings for Career Specialisation in Entrepreneurship in 2023. This recognition underscores the university's focus on fostering entrepreneurial skills among its students.
2024-04-01
Scientists in UK Discover More Accurate Allergy Measurement Method
In April 2024, scientists in the UK developed a more precise method to measure the causes of allergy symptoms. This advancement is significant in the field of allergy research and could lead to improved treatments.
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Imperial College London

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Imperial College London

Public research university in London, England.
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