News
Latest College News
Stay up to date with the latest from Magdalene, including College announcements, academic achievements, alumni updates, feature articles, and highlights from recent events.
Mrs Jo Hornsby (1955-2026)
It is with great regret that the College has to announce that Mrs Jo Hornsby (2026), the Master's Secretary for almost forty years and an Honorary Member of the College, died on 6 September.
Magdalene Maths History: The First to Come First Since 1778
For the first time since 1778, a Magdalene student and Prince Philip Scholar, Eaton Liu (2023), has been named Senior Wrangler, following in the footsteps of William Farish and Edward Waring, Senior Wranglers at Magdalene in 1778 and 1757 respectively.
Magdalene Admits New Honorary Fellows
We are pleased to welcome five new Honorary Fellows to Magdalene. Each has made an outstanding contribution in their field and will bring valuable experience and insight to our community.
The (Many) End(s) of History
Dr Amelia Urry, Lumley Research Fellow in the History of Science, examines how scientific narratives of apocalypse have shaped thinking about climate change, risk and the future.
Precision Neuroscience Brain–Computer Interface
Michael Mager (2012) explains how Precision Neuroscience is developing brain–computer interfaces that could transform treatment for paralysis and neurological conditions.
Armstrong Arts and Humanities Essay Competition Winner Announced 2026
Magdalene College is delighted to announce the winners of the Armstrong Arts and Humanities Essay Competition 2026. The competition invited Year 12 students from UK state-maintained schools to submit a response to one of twelve essay questions, which encompassed a variety of Arts & Humanities subjects available to study at undergraduate level at the University of Cambridge.
Peckard Prize Winner 2026
Congratulations to Ms Anna Viehhauser, winner of the Peter Peckard Memorial Prize 2026, for her essay on Roma and Sinti Activism and Holocaust Memory Politics.
Admissions, Outreach and Support
Magdalene’s expanded outreach and admissions work has driven record application numbers, helping attract talented students from diverse backgrounds across the UK and beyond.
The Pepys Building Restoration Update
The Pepys Building has undergone major restoration, including stripping back its interior and a new roof, revealing the historic 17th-century roof timbers. Work is now focused on installing services and finishing details, with completion expected for the 2026/27 academic year
Magdalene Matters 56
The latest Magdalene Matters is out now! Issue 56 features College news and stories from Members, including an update on the Pepys Restoration Project, insights from Admissions, Outreach and Support, a look at Magdalene maintenance in the 18th century, new developments in neurotechnology, coverage of the Magdalen and Magdalene Sports Day, and more.
Mr Denis Murphy (1937-2026)
It is with deep sadness that the College announces the death of Mr Denis Murphy (1957), Honorary Fellow, Emeritus Fellow and former Senior Bursar of Magdalene College.
Magdalene alumna prepares for historic Indian Ocean rowing expedition
Dr Susannah Cass (2006), a Magdalene alumna and experienced ocean rower, is preparing to attempt a world‑first 5,500 mile unsupported crossing of the Indian Ocean as part of the Brainwaves crew.