University College London has admitted that "unacceptable behaviour takes place" and appointed external agency Howlett Brown to investigate allegations of discrimination at The Bartlett School of Architecture.
"UCL has been deeply troubled to learn about allegations of unacceptable behaviour at The Bartlett School of Architecture and we have appointed an external agency, Howlett Brown, to carry out an independent investigation into the culture and behaviours in the School," said Sasha Roseneil, pro-provost of equity and inclusion at UCL.
"We are aware that unacceptable behaviour takes place at UCL"
Consultancy Howlett Brown will investigate a series of claims that were first brought to light by former student Eleni Kyriacou and revealed in the Guardian in May. Initially, Kyriacou compiled a dossier from 21 people who alleged staff sexually harassed female students and made derogatory comments about race.
Since then, further students have come forward, with a group named Bartlett United now representing 70 former students and staff.
"We are aware that unacceptable behaviour takes place at UCL, and we are committed to fully understanding the issues and to addressing them," said Roseneil.
"This is a complex investigation and we ask for patience"
According to UCL, the investigation will be carried out independently, with Howlett Brown set to make recommendations to the university early next year.
"UCL has asked Howlett ...