UK research institute apologises for rejecting Russian scientist

One of Britain’s most prestigious research institutes has apologised to a young scientist who was told that an offer to her was being withdrawn because she is Russian, and is to offer her a role.

The Beatson Institute, a biological research facility in Glasgow that conducts research into the basic biology of cancer, faced criticism after it emerged that an applicant for a PhD place had been rejected on the grounds of her nationality.

A message apparently sent by a member of staff at the institute, which was subsequently posted on Twitter by a friend of the applicant, said an offer to her was being withdrawn.

“I have just been told that very recently the Beatson has established a new policy upon which I am unable to appoint you because you are Russian,” it said. “I’m so deeply sorry for this. I find so [sic] unfair that what is going on in Russia affects very talented young scientists like you … I really hope that you can find a place to do your PhD!”

In a statement on Thursday, the Beatson said it did not have a policy of declining applications from Russian students on the basis of their nationality.

Owen Sansom, the Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute director, said in the statement: “Applications are considered on a case-by-case basis and offers are always reviewed against external checks, such as visa requirements or UK government sanctions.

“In this case there was an initial misunderstanding of these restrictions, which has been addressed. We have contacted the applicant involved to offer them a place and have apologised for any distress caused. We are reviewing our processes internally to prevent this issue from occurring again in future.”

In May the University of West London (UWL) was criticised after a Russian woman’s application for a hospitality course was rejected. An email to her cited “university policy in response to the recent events and situation in Ukraine”. A UWL spokesperson reportedly later said the email declining the application had been sent in error “due to an internal miscommunication”.

After Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the British government imposed a range of financial, trade, aircraft, shipping and immigration sanctions on Russia, while named individuals are also subject to sanctions.

The Equality Act 2010 prohibits discrimination in the workplace in respect of race, nationality, ethnic origins and national origins. Victimisation against job applicants is also prohibited.