University of Aberdeen: Over 40 staff take redundancy or retire amid funding crisis

The university introduced voluntary redundancies in April this year after it identified a black hole of £5.5 million. At the time it described the measures being taken as "regrettable but necessary".

It is understood 41 staff members in total have taken redundancy or enhanced retirement, according to STV. The business school has reportedly been the hardest hit, with 14 staff leaving through the scheme.

Other cost-cutting measures included pausing recruitment. The university said the steps have helped reduce its deficit to £4.3million.

Earlier this month, a review of the institution revealed reports of “power struggles” between decision-makers and cases of “intimidating behaviour and a “toxic culture”.

The report's findings surfaced around the same time as Prof Peter Edwards began his role as the university's new principal. He took over from Prof George Boyne, who held the position since 2018.

A University of Aberdeen spokesperson said: “Wide-ranging measures including Voluntary Severance and Enhanced Retirement, a pause on recruitment, income generation opportunities and identifying savings have enabled the University to reduce its deficit for 2024/2025 to £4.3m.

‘‘The University is on track to achieve the budget approved by its governing body court for this year and work continues on the trajectory to return to break even by 2028″.