Crossword Genius

University can back assembly (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

unit

'assembly' is the definition.
(a group of people)

'university can back' is the wordplay.
'university' becomes 'u' (abbreviation for university).
'can' becomes 'tin' (synonyms).
'back' is a reversal indicator.
'tin' back-to-front is 'nit'.
'u'+'nit'='UNIT'

(Other definitions for unit that I've seen before include "A considerable number of soldiers" , "Building block - small military force" , "Part of a kit" , "Element or part" , "One; military group" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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