Scientists at the Pasteur Institute in Paris have praised British mediator John Skehel for doing "a great job" in helping resolve a row over whether the institute should relocate. They believe his decision to side with staff and recommend staying put has swayed the argument in favor of those opposed to the move.
Skehel's influence in Paris contrasts starkly with recent events at the organization he heads in London, the National Institute of Medical Research (NIMR), which has been embroiled in its own relocation dispute.
The Medical Research Council, which runs the NIMR, recently opted to merge the institute with University College London and sell-off its long-time home in north London, in the face of vocal opposition from researchers.
But Pasteur scientists are adamant the NIMR outcome did not affect Skehel's verdict on their own institute. "I think staff have really welcomed his report," said one leading cell biologist, who ...
