Poaching of researchers forecast in 6* scramble

Leading research universities could start poaching promising departments from weaker institutions to secure the 6* research rating, according to analysis of the higher education white paper.

Business analyst KPMG warned that entire research departments, particularly high-performing departments in otherwise non-research intensive universities, could be lured to wealthy research institutions by the promise of better pay and facilities.

KPMG says: "Such shifts of research staff en masse will obviously have an impact on the teaching provision and marketing of that subject area and might ultimately damage the viability of the whole institution."

The report proposes a body acting as an "honest broker" to drive forward the collaboration agenda.

Details: www.kpmg.co.uk