SOAS University of London

- 1 - EMPLOYMENT TRIBUNALS BETWEEN Claimant: Ms J Jiang Respondent: SOAS University of London Heard at: in public On: 27, 28, 29, 30 May, 2 June 2025 (3 June in chambers) Before: Employment Judge Adkin Ms J Marshall Mr P Alleyne Appearances For the claimant: in person For the respondent: Miss K Barry, Counsel JUDGMENT (1) The following complaints are not well founded and are dismissed: a. automatic unfair dismissal because of a protected disclosure pursuant to section 103A of the Employment Rights Act 1996 (“ERA”); b. detriment because of a protected disclosure pursuant to section 47B of the ERA; c. unlawful deduction from wages pursuant to section 13 of the ERA. - 2 - REASONS Overview 1. The Claimant Dr Jue Jiang (“the Claimant”) was a post-doctorate student researching the Chinese criminal justice system being paid from funding provided from a European Commission fellowship. 2. The Claimant worked for the Respondent as a Marie Curie Research Fellow, from 16 September 2022 until 19 October 2023. Early conciliation started on 2 December 2023 and ended on 4 January 2024. The Claimant presented her claim on 11 February 2024. 3. She initially started work under the fellowship under supervision at the Newcastle University, but then changed supervisor and moved to the School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London (“SOAS”, “Respondent”). This claim is about her dismissal and events leading up to and after her dismissal. 4. The Respondent dismissed the Claimant purportedly for a breakdown in trust and confidence described as “some other substantial reason” without giving her the opportunity to comment nor a hearing nor an appeal right. They contend that despite repeated requests the Claimant failed to provide evidence of producing work as she was required to under her fellowship. 5. The...