The 1994 Group of smaller research-intensive universities presented “skewed” data and “poor research” when making the case for greater concentration of PhD student funding, according to an adviser to the Government’s postgraduate review.
Wendy Purcell, vice-chancellor of the University of Plymouth and an external adviser to the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills’ review of postgraduate provision, said research concentration had been “the most contentious area” of its work.
She also said that publication of the review’s final report had been “accelerated”, adding that its findings may prompt the extension of the widening-participation agenda into the postgraduate arena.
The review, which finished gathering its submissions in December 2009, is being led by Adrian Smith, director-general of science and research at BIS.
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