MEPs are calling for its withdrawal
Controversial researcher Harry Pettit's ERC grant under fire
Harry Pettit. Photo: Johannes Fiebig / Vox
Until recently, Pettit worked as a lecturer at Radboud University Nijmegen. He is known for his radical tweets about Israel and the war in Gaza. He also speaks highly of the late Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.
His comments cost him his new job at VU Brussels, where he was due to start working this summer. He may continue his research elsewhere, as a European grant is personal: he is allowed to take the money with him.
However, Dutch MPs from the right-wing parties VVD, BBB and SGP want the European Research Council to withdraw the grant, reported the Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf.
Misconduct?
The European Commission has confirmed that it is investigating allegations against Pettit and examining the possible consequences for his grant. According to a spokesperson, a grant can be withdrawn due to "professional misconduct". They must therefore determine whether that is Pettit's case.
Pettit's grant has not yet been signed, the ERC reports. Probably because he does not have an institution where he can carry out his research.
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