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As someone who makes rapid transitions between being a foreigner (of Sri Lankan origin) and an ethnic minority Brit (I gained UK citizenship two years ago), I find the report on Manchester University's aim to operate close to the thresholds of positive discrimination disappointing ("Wider net for top jobs", July 7).

There are two factors that would motivate me to apply for a senior position at Manchester: that I can demonstrate potential to do a good job and that it is a good university to work for.

I would not want to be, nor allow myself to be seen to be, the "black and minority ethnic dean of physical sciences".

I applaud Manchester's intentions, but it has prob-ably reduced its pool of applicants as a result.

Mahesan Niranjan

Sheffield University