University backs 'stay' campaign over EU vote
Bosses at the University of Wolverhampton - which has a campus in Telford - have thrown their support behind the campaign to remain within the EU.
They warned that leaving would send 'the wrong message' about UK universities' international outlook.
Professor Geoff Layer, vice-chancellor of the university, said Britain being a member of the EU had allowed the university to 'bring an enormous range of benefits' to the local economy and to society.
The university, which has a campus at Priorslee in Telford which includes its cutting-edge engineering department, has received nearly £70 million in funding from Europe in the past 16 years.
Prof Layer said: "These grants directly impact our communities – students, staff, the Black Country, West Midlands and further afield with our world-renowned research.
"EU funding has helped us to make a difference in the areas of economic growth, access to higher education and in our campus buildings and facilities.
"Over half of our research income comes from Europe and research significantly contributes to the economy. We are internationally recognised for it."
The university's Centre for International Development and Training has benefited from more than five million euros of EU funding for a range of projects, while a business start-up programme for graduates received £8 million. The programme has seen 620 regional businesses launched, leading to the creation of almost 1,000 jobs.
"Leaving the EU would mean cutting UK universities off from unique support and established networks, undermining the UK's position as a global leader in science and innovation," Prof Layer added.
The university has also been handed almost £30m in EU funding for buildings and facilities, which has contributed to new facilities at the Telford Innovation Campus.
Prof Layer said: "Internationalisation of universities improves the student experience – and leaving the EU gives the wrong message to other countries about UK universities' international outlook."
The university's backing for the 'in' campaign has been hailed by the Britain Stronger in Europe campaign group.
Spokesman James McGrory said: "Wolverhampton University's comments demonstrate how Wolverhampton and universities and students across Britain are stronger, safer and better off in Europe. We depend on vital EU research funding, with universities in the West Midlands set to benefit from over £500 million of funding until 2020.
"The free movement of people means that universities can bring the best and most inspiring academics from across Europe to work here in Britain."
