THE uncertainties facing universities following the Scottish Parliament's backing for a second independence referendum and Brexit have been highlighted by a leading principal.

Professor Sally Mapstone, principal of St Andrews University, said the institution was "materially affected" by the decision of the Scottish Government to demand a second independence referendum.

In a message to staff she said: "This opens up a further layer of complexity, from the constitutional arrangements and timing of any vote to its influence on Scotland’s membership of and future relations with the EU.

"Everybody at St Andrews will have a view individually on where they think we should be positioned in these debates, but there is also much still to be clarified on some essential matters within both the Brexit negotiations and the independence discussions.

"How the UK and Scottish Governments handle questions around present and future staff and student mobility and access to European and UK research funding are crucial to the future identity, well-being, and sustainability of our university."

Ms Mapstone and other principals also moved to reassure academics from across the EU by offering a range of services including subsidised legal advice.

Ms Mapstone said: "I have asked that we explore the opportunity to provide subsidised expert legal advice from Scottish solicitors’ firms with particular expertise in these matters, should there be demand from colleagues for this type of service.

"We will be strengthening the practical advice that we offer and I have asked that we put in place arrangements to cover the cost of application for permanent residence."

Professor Anton Muscatelli, principal of Glasgow University, echoed the concerns over staff.

He said: "In terms of our staff, one of the things we said we would do was hold some legal seminars to make sure they understand their rights because some of them have been concerned.

"Potentially, if there is demand, we will also look at the possibility of giving some one-to-one support and, if people have concerns about their residency rights or citizenship support, we will encourage them to go to human resources and seek that advice."

Professor Sir Timothy O'Shea, principal of Edinburgh University, added: "The importance of securing the rights of EU citizens already working in the UK is paramount and long term access to EU research funding programmes remains central to the overall success of our Universities.

"I know that for many people there will be further concern around whether staff and students, or members of their family, might be impacted by changes to residency rights.

"In order to support those members of staff who might be affected we are now offering loans for residency fees and a new set of targeted free legal information sessions, as well as providing further advice to our students."

Meanwhile, Shona Struthers, chief executive of Colleges Scotland, said there were also significant concerns in further education.

She said: "Scottish colleges could lose significant EU funding, partnership and exchange programme opportunities, which have benefitted students, business and communities across the country.

"Scotland’s colleges have received approximately £46m from EU funding strands over the past two academic years and it is important that the Scottish Government works with the sector to mitigate the impact that this will have on the sector’s finances and students."