The steps we are taking to help displaced Ukrainian academics and their families are progressing and we can now update you where we are so far.
We announced our support for displaced scholars last month and since then we have been approved as a sponsor under the Homes for Ukraine scheme.
The University houses we will be able to make available for refugees will be ready in the next week or two and we are also liaising with Aberdeen City Council about the additional accommodation they can offer.
We would like to thank those who have been in touch with us to say that you have registered under the Homes for Ukraine scheme. Anyone else who has done so and who would like to let us know can contact Heather Crabb on h.crabb@abdn.ac.uk.
Several names of Ukrainian academic and academic-related staff who might benefit from our support have been passed to us and a process is being established to help facilitate those able to provide accommodation to connect with those seeking accommodation.
We are also exploring how we support applications for external Fellowships and the provision of Visiting Professorships and stipends for refugees in Aberdeen, together with the possibility of granting honorary status to allow those coming here to have use of our library and other facilities.
Financial hardship and accommodation support for students from Ukraine and the region impacted by the war and sanctions will also available.
You will recall from our statement on Ukraine that the University has suspended its bilateral agreements with Russian organisations indefinitely. This does not, however, change our on-going support for Russian colleagues and students. Nor does it prevent individual research or scholarly collaborations involving Russian scholars, who oppose the attack on Ukraine, and which do not involve direct financial benefits for Russian institutions.
Finally, we also have a new Ukraine webpage containing information and support for staff and students.
If you have any further suggestions around the support we might be able to provide please email Heather Crabb. In the meantime, we will keep you updated as our plans progress further.
Best wishes
Karl & Tracey