1) There is a culture of acceptance around mental health issues in academia
This piece generated a huge response from our readers and sparked us to dedicate a series to mental health in universities. Our coverage was shortlisted for a Mind media award.
2) Female academics: don’t power dress, forget heels – and no flowing hair allowed
In a response to Jonathan Wolff’s column, professor Francesca Stavrakopoulou wrote a blog which prompted an unprecedented reaction and debate worldwide about the way women in academia are judged on their appearance.
3) How 1,000 years of Arabic scholarship advanced scientific debate – in pictures
The British Library and Qatar Foundation joined forces in October to launch a new bilingual online portal, the Qatar Digital Library, providing free access to 25,000 pages of fascinating medieval Arabic manuscript. We pulled together a selection of some of the most influential scientific texts in history.
4) Life as a PhD student – in pictures
From crumbling 17th century historical documents to desk sabotage, we featured some of the best submissions from our Guardian Witness project on a day in the life of a PhD student.
5) Struggle for top research grades fuels bullying among university staff
Our survey findings revealed that more than half of university staff who responded said recent policy changes have caused an increase in bullying – and that institutions aren’t doing enough to tackle the issue.
6) Teaching religion: my students are trying to run my course
One academic told us why their job is no longer the joy it once was.
7) Studying a PhD: don’t suffer in silence
Alan Percy, head of counselling at the University of Oxford, provided some helpful advice on how to cope with some of the challenges of studying for a PhD.
8) International students: where do they go to study?
Our interactive map illustrated which countries attract the majority of international students.
9) “Why are you doing a PhD at your age?”
“I’m concerned that my age will render my PhD worthless, at least as a passport to an academic career,” wrote our anonymous academic.
10) Ada Lovelace Day: how much do you know about women in science? – quiz
To mark Ada Lovelace Day, a celebration of women in science, technology, engineering and maths (Stem), we decided to see what our readers’ knew about women’s scientific achievements and the barriers they face.
What stood out for you this year? Tweet us your favourite higher education reads of 2014 to @gdnhighered or pitch us your ideas for 2015 by email – it could be your blog on next year’s list.
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