Several newly appointed British Academy fellows at the University of Exeter have been told they are at risk of redundancy, just weeks after learning they had achieved the honour.
One of Exeter’s most successful years for the fellowships, given to those who have “achieved distinction in any branch of the humanities and social sciences”, coincides with the university making deep cuts to its faculty that teaches these subjects.
Five academics received fellowships this year; historians Jane Whittle and Mark Jackson, professor of Christian history Morwenna Ludlow, human geographer Neil Adger, and professor of Arabic studies Rob Gleave. All but Adger are now at risk of losing their job.
The scholars say their achievements show the strength of their subjects at Exeter, and warn the proposed cuts put this at risk. The university has insisted it must take action to remain sustainable and has promised to retain one of the biggest humanities faculties in the country.
Speaking to Times Higher Education, Whittle, whose research explores the history of work, said that she had been “absolutely delighted” to receive the fellowship, and was considering advocating for a pay rise following the news. However, a week later, she found out that she was at risk of redundancy.
