OREANDA-NEWS One of Britain’s most prestigious research institutes has apologised to a young scientist who was told that an offer to her was being withdrawn because she is Russian, and is to offer her a role.

The Beatson Institute, a biological research facility in Glasgow that conducts research into the basic biology of cancer, faced criticism after it emerged that an applicant for a PhD place had been rejected on the grounds of her nationality.

A message apparently sent by a member of staff at the institute, which was subsequently posted on Twitter by a friend of the applicant, said an offer to her was being withdrawn.

“I have just been told that very recently the Beatson has established a new policy upon which I am unable to appoint you because you are Russian,” it said. “I’m so deeply sorry for this. I find so [sic] unfair that what is going on in Russia affects very talented young scientists like you … I really hope that you can find a place to do your PhD!”

In a statement on Thursday, the Beatson said it did not have a policy of declining applications from Russian students on the basis of their nationality.