£300,000 a-year Dundee University vice-chancellor suspended for allegedly not paying rent

Institution confirms independent investigation is underway

( Lancaster University/YouTube)

The £300-000 a year vice-chancellor of Dundee University has been suspended for allegedly not paying rent on accommodation provided to him by the institution.

Professor Andrew Atherton was removed from his role in September after just nine months in the job.

The principal, who started the role in January, received a £40,000 “disruption allowance” to help with the move from Lancaster University.

An independent investigation into alleged non-payment at the institution is underway.

Professor Atherton’s £298,000 remuneration package includes pension contributions on top of a £254,000 salary.

A university spokesperson: “Professor Atherton, principal and vice-chancellor, was suspended from office on September 13, pending an investigation which remains to be completed.

“That process includes an investigation carried out by someone external to the university.

“As is our policy in any disciplinary case, it would not be appropriate for the University to comment further while the process is ongoing.”

Professor Atherton was deputy vice-chancellor and professor of enterprise at Lancaster University before taking up his role at Dundee.

He also previously worked as senior deputy vice-chancellor at Lincoln University.

The Independent has attempted to reach Professor Atherton for comment.

Additional reporting by Press Association