As we enter into lockdown 3.0 I urge UKRI to revisit this decision. Our PhD students deserve better. Our current circumstances are clearly a valid reason for an extension. Researchers cannot be asked to compromise or change their projects because this pandemic has stolen time.
We have been asked to clarify that though the letter was supported by UCU and published on its website, it was organised by the wider academic community. We are happy to make that correction.