RSS joins call to protect mathematics at the University of Sussex

We have joined three other leading organisations in the mathematical sciences in urging the University of Sussex to reconsider proposed compulsory redundancies in its Department of Mathematics. In a joint letter sent to Vice-Chancellor Professor Sasha Roseneil, we expressed our deep concern about plans that could put a substantial proportion of the department's academic staff at risk.   

Alongside the London Mathematical Society (LMS), Edinburgh Mathematical Society (EMS) and the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications (IMA), we recognise the significant financial pressures facing universities. However, we believe the proposed reduction in mathematics capacity at Sussex raises serious strategic concerns given the department's strong performance in teaching, research and student recruitment.   

Our letter raised a number of further points, including:  

  • Growing demand for mathematics courses is reflected in rising mathematics applications and new data science programmes. 

  • Expected income from new initiatives and international partnerships is projected to exceed redundancy-related savings. 

  • Reducing provision could damage reputation, student confidence and staff recruitment. 

  • Mathematical sciences capacity is difficult to rebuild once lost. 

  • Mathematics supports innovation across science, engineering, medicine, business and emerging technologies. 

Together with our partner societies, we have called on the university's leadership to work openly with staff and the wider mathematical sciences community to identify sustainable alternatives. We have also offered our support through the Campaign for Mathematical Sciences and our wider professional networks to help secure a positive future for mathematics at Sussex.   

Read the letter in full.  

Image credit: Charles Rawding, CC BY-SA 2.0

Load more