UCU at the University of Wolverhampton are seeking your help to stop the immediate compulsory redundancy of up to 19 Professors who are unfairly blamed for alleged poor results of their subject areas at the last research excellence exercise (REF). The results were very good across the University, and better than ever before, but the Vice Chancellor is nevertheless picking on 4 areas which have not done as well as anticipated, and blamed the Professors in these areas (and not other staff, especially not the management of the University research strategy who took unwise strategic decisions which were challenged by the very Professors who are now at risk).
The VC is also very firm, dismissing UCU’s alternative options, and of offering no option of voluntary redundancy, early retirement, or else. Further to this, demotions of other Professors to Senior Lectureships are also imminent, and the University does not appear to be following due process on this either.
This restructure will have a negative impact on the University reputation, on all staff and students, especially research students at the institution. The damage done to local links with industry, especially in areas of engineering, is also deplorable.
UCU are lobbying the Board of Governors of the University who are meeting on Thursday 2nd July. Please come and rally by 4.30 pm outside the Main University Entrance, Wulfruna Street, Wolverhampton, WV1 1LY (only a 5 minute walk from the Wolverhampton train and bus station, next to the Cathedral and Civic Centre)
Many thanks in advance for your support.
Cécile Hatier
UCU NC Secretary
The University of Wolverhampton