Universities for North East England (UNEE) response to the exclusion of Northern universities from the Global Talent Fund

7th August 2025

Universities for North East England (UNEE) have issued a response echoing the concerns of the Great North Mayors regarding the exclusion of northern universities from the UKRI Global Talent Fund.

Professor Andy Long, Vice-Chancellor of Northumbria University and Chair, Universities for North East England (UNEE), said: “We share the disappointment expressed by the Mayors and appreciate their concern.

“We do not understand the rationale for overlooking the opportunity to bring global talent to the North, including North East England.  

“The five North East universities have the capability to host and nurture global talent for the benefit of the UK.

“We collaborate on research that brings considerable benefits to the country and region - economically, socially and culturally. The impact of this decision is felt by us all.”

Universities for North East England is the unified voice of higher education in North East England, advocating for evidence-based policy development, investment, and widening access and participation in higher education. It involves Durham, Newcastle, Northumbria, Sunderland and Teesside Universities.

For more information about Universities for North East England, please visit our UNEE webpages or contact: info@unee.ac.uk.