Interesting if true

Back page gossip from the 18 April issue of Research Fortnight.

Not a minute too soon An end to the pensions dispute is in sight after University and College Union members endorsed Universities UK’s proposal on 13 April to set up a panel to take an independent look at the valuations used to make decisions about the Universities Superannuation Scheme. Ahead of the vote, some had hoped the minutes of a USS board of trustees meeting on 11 April might shed some light on whether universities would adhere to the panel’s recommendations.But they were disappointed: when your correspondent called about the meeting, a USS spokeswoman said in no uncertain terms they would not be released.

Great power The United States’ National Science Foundation recently asked schoolchildren to invent superheroes “who use the power of science and technology”. Their creations—including Doctor DNA, Peppy T Polymer, and the solar-powered Heliora—are certainly compelling. But your correspondent thinks the world needs Evidence Woman, who knocks political heads together when they say stupid things about climate change or vaccines. Perhaps her origins could involve a mild-mannered science policy journalist and a radioactive grant application.