University of Brighton alumni battle it out on University Challenge Christmas Special

Captained by world-leading pharmacist, Professor David Taylor, the University of Brighton team also includes celebrated author, illustrator and former Children’s Laureate, Chris Riddell OBE, actor and disability rights campaigner Adam Pearson, and award-winning comic artist and former Comics Laureate, Hannah Berry.

The team showcases the amazing reach of the Brighton effect and the impact that the university’s teaching, learning and research has on people and communities all over the world.

Chris Riddell OBE, known for his children’s books and political cartoons, graduated with a degree in Graphic Design in 1984 and received an honorary doctorate in 2019. Hannah Berry, who was the first female Comics Laureate, graduated with a degree in Illustration in 2004. Actor and campaigner Adam Pearson, fresh from his recent starring role in ‘Under the Skin; A Different Man’, graduated with a degree in Business Management in 2007. 

University of Brighton team with University Challenge host

Team captain Professor David Taylor graduated with a master’s degree in clinical pharmacy in 1986 following his undergraduate Pharmacy degree. The University of Brighton team are among 56 distinguished alumni from 14 universities across the UK appearing on the special University Challenge Christmas Special series over the festive period.

Marnie Middlemiss, Director of Philanthropy and Alumni Engagement at the University of Brighton said: “We are immensely proud to see our talented alumni representing the University of Brighton on the University Challenge Christmas Special. Their participation highlights the incredible diversity of achievements our graduates go on to accomplish, from groundbreaking work in pharmacy and disability advocacy to award-winning contributions in the arts. We can’t wait to cheer on the team as they showcase their intellect and creativity on this iconic programme.”

First airing in 1962, University Challenge pits teams of university students and alumni against each other in a battle of wits, speed, and knowledge. Hosted by Amol Rajan, the programme features challenging questions spanning diverse subjects, from science and history to arts and culture.

The University Challenge Christmas series starts on 23 December on BBC iPlayer and BBC Two featuring University of Brighton on Boxing Day at 8:30pm.