A London university has been promoted to join Britain’s “Ivy League” of top research institutions.
Queen Mary, University of London, is one of four new members of the Russell Group, recognised around the world as one of the most powerful brands in higher education.
Professor Simon Gaskell, principal of Queen Mary, said the move is recognition that the Mile End university has been improving its research for the past 10 years. It now has an annual turnover of £300 million and research income worth £70 million.
Durham, Exeter and York universities have also been invited to join the Russell Group, taking its membership to 24. Four other London universities are already members. Professor Gaskell said: “We are delighted to accept the invitation to join the group. The Russell Group includes the top research-intensive universities in the UK.
“The invitation to join the Russell Group is a result of our achievements over the last decade, notably the considerable improvement in research strength across a broad academic range, and the expansion in student numbers with steadily increasing entry standards.”
There are no formal criteria for joining the Russell Group, but members are committed to maintaining the best research, providing outstanding teaching and strong business links, which help students get jobs.
Being a member can help universities attract academic staff and research students. In London, Imperial College, King’s College, LSE and UCL are already members.
