In a visit marked by optimism and determination, Education Secretary Jenny Gilruth toured the University of Dundee’s renowned School of Life Sciences on April 15, 2025, underscoring the Scottish Government’s commitment to supporting the institution through its financial challenges. The visit coincided with the announcement of a new Taskforce comprising diverse stakeholders to advise on the university’s recovery strategy.
During her visit, Ms. Gilruth explored the Drug Discovery and Medical Research units, where groundbreaking work in treating conditions such as Parkinson’s disease is being conducted. The university’s research in biological sciences has earned it the top ranking in the UK-wide Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021, solidifying its position as a leader in scientific innovation.
Reflecting on her experience, Ms. Gilruth expressed admiration for the pioneering work being undertaken at Dundee. “It was inspiring to hear about the world-leading and life-changing research here at Dundee’s School of Life Sciences. This vitally important work highlights Scotland’s academic excellence and innovation,” she said. She emphasized that such research not only advances global health but also attracts inward investment, making it a cornerstone of Scotland’s knowledge economy.
The visit also marked the unveiling of a Taskforce designed to guide the university through its financial recovery. The membership includes representatives from academia, business, trade unions, enterprise agencies, NHS Education for Scotland, and alumni groups. This diverse coalition aims to leverage expertise across sectors to address Dundee’s financial challenges and ensure its long-term sustainability.
Professor Shane O’Neill, Interim Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Dundee, welcomed the initiative. “We are extremely grateful to the Scottish Government for their continued support. The Taskforce will be instrumental in helping us navigate this critical period while maintaining our impact on Dundee and beyond,” he stated.
The University of Dundee is currently facing a £35 million deficit for 2024-25, prompting significant restructuring efforts. Plans include reducing staffing by over 600 full-time equivalent posts and selling off assets such as property and intellectual property rights. These measures are part of a broader recovery plan aimed at stabilizing finances while preserving academic excellence.
To support this effort, the Scottish Government has allocated an additional £25 million to the Scottish Funding Council (SFC), including a recent £10 million package announced in March 2025. This funding complements £1.1 billion already earmarked for university teaching and research across Scotland. Ms. Gilruth reiterated her government’s commitment to ensuring that Dundee emerges stronger from this crisis: “We are determined to provide the necessary financial support and expertise to secure its future”.
The School of Life Sciences at Dundee continues to make strides in addressing global health challenges. Its groundbreaking research into Parkinson’s disease has led to clinical trials utilizing LRRK2 inhibitors developed by Denali Therapeutics and Biogen. These trials represent a significant milestone in developing treatments for one of the most debilitating neurodegenerative conditions affecting millions worldwide.
Professor Dario Alessi, Director of Dundee’s Medical Research Council Protein Phosphorylation and Ubiquitylation Unit (MRC-PPU), described the journey as both challenging and rewarding. “Unlocking LRRK2 was one of my toughest challenges, but knowing our research has led to clinical trials is deeply gratifying,” he said. Despite ongoing hurdles in drug development timelines, researchers remain committed to advancing therapies that could transform lives.
The University of Dundee’s financial recovery is not just about numbers; it is about preserving its legacy as a hub for innovation and education. As Professor O’Neill noted, “This crisis has challenged us to rethink our size, structure, and balance as an institution. While difficult decisions lie ahead, we are committed to learning from past mistakes and building a sustainable future”.
The Scottish Government’s proactive approach—combining financial aid with expert guidance—offers hope for universities across Scotland facing similar challenges. The collaborative spirit embodied by the Taskforce underscores the importance of partnerships in overcoming adversity.
As Ms. Gilruth concluded her visit, she left a message of resilience: “The University of Dundee is not just an academic institution; it is a global beacon of research excellence. We will stand by it every step of the way”.
