The University of Aberdeen will mark the 531st anniversary of its foundation with a vibrant programme of public events celebrating its history, research excellence and enduring connections with the local community.
Taking place from Monday 9 to Friday 13 February 2026, Founders’ Week will bring together staff, students, alumni, partners and the public for a series of talks, tours, lectures and celebrations across the city.
It is the second time the University has celebrated with a week-long programme of events and follows a successful launch in 2025, when more than 1,000 visitors attended events.
The 2026 Founders’ Week will open with a public engagement Discovery Day at the University’s King’s College Campus on Monday, inviting families and visitors onto campus during the school holidays to explore boundary-breaking research through hands-on activities, demonstrations and interactive stalls. Throughout the week, a range of events will showcase the University’s commitment to making research accessible and relevant to wider society.
Highlights include Café Sci at Aberdeen Art Gallery on Tuesday, focusing on the history of MRI scanning and the city and the cutting-edge breakthroughs happening in Aberdeen which could shape the future of medical imaging.
The prestigious Andrew Carnegie Lecture will be delivered on Wednesday by Dr Suzanne O’Sullivan who will consider the. ways in which diagnosis can change the relationship with our bodies
The University’s historic setting will take centre stage on Thursday with guided and self-guided campus and chapel tours offering the public an opportunity to explore King’s College Chapel and the Old Aberdeen campus.
The week will also include celebrations marking the 25th anniversary of the Aberdeen University Students’ Association (AUSA), with a panel discussion and social events bringing together past and present student leaders, alumni and supporters.
A Chapel Service, followed by a tea and coffee reception, celebrating the University’s origins and benefactors will conclude events on Friday. The service will be live-streamed to allow wider participation. Later, the presentation of the Benefactor’s Award will recognise the vital role of philanthropic support in the University’s success.
Visitors can also take in the Gallery at the Sir Duncan Rice Library and the Zoology Museum where there will be a lunchtime tour on the Wednesday at Zoology.
Professor Nick Forsyth, Acting Senior Vice-Principal and Vice-Principal Research, said: “Founders’ Week is an opportunity to celebrate the University’s past and to share the important work happening in the institution today.
“From pioneering the world’s first full-body MRI scanner to the internationally recognised medical imaging research taking place in Aberdeen today, our work has consistently pushed boundaries and delivered real-world benefit.
“Our 2026 programme offers something for people of all ages to explore, question and engage with the ideas shaping the future.
“Founders’ Week reflects our commitment to sharing the important research underway at the University in a way which is accessible, relevant and inspiring for all.”
For more information in the Founders’ Week programme or to book your place visit https://www.abdn.ac.uk/events/founders-week/