Dundee University academics are “deeply shocked and worried” about impending job cuts, their union has said.
The University and College Union (UCU) was reacting to the announcement of proposals to introduce a voluntary severance scheme.
There are more than 1,300 academic members of staff at Dundee University and, pending approval of the scheme next week, they will be asked if they wish to leave their jobs in return for a pay-off.
Principal and vice-chancellor Professor Pete Downes insists no specific target has been set for the reduction in staffing, although a source told The Courier that up to 150 people may be allowed to go.
UCU Scotland official Mary Senior said: “Staff at the University of Dundee are deeply shocked and worried at claims of significant job cuts at the university.
“UCU is currently seeking clarification from management about these claims.
“Three years ago the union and the university agreed a comprehensive policy on avoiding job cuts, and it is now vital that the employer consults with unions on any restructuring plans that it has.
“Preserving jobs and providing high quality education at the university remain the priority of UCU.”
Asked about the union’s comments, a university spokesman said management would continue to consult unions and staff throughout the process.
Dundee University Students’ Association president Iain MacKinnon said: “I cannot comment on any specific proposal from the university as I have not yet seen the paper which will be presented to university court.
“However, as DUSA president and an elected student member of university court, I fully intend to challenge the senior management of the university on any proposal which they make.
“Whatever decisions are taken, it is imperative to me that the student experience is at the heart of any future plans.”
The Scottish Funding Council, which distributes public money to universities and colleges, has told Dundee University its likely funding package for the 2014-15 academic year will be £65.8 million, made up of £40.8m in teaching grants and £24.9m for research.
The total is about £3.5m more than this academic year.
University management have said they need to reduce staffing to deal with financial pressures despite having a total budget including research grants, tuition fees and other income, of about £220m.
Neighbouring Abertay University has been running a voluntary severance scheme open to all of its 500-plus staff since mid-January. No specific target has been set for cutting employee numbers and the closing date for applications is March 28.