Calls for action to protect thriving future of UK R&D
The Campaign for Science and Engineering has presented recommendations to achieve its vision for UK R&D in 2045.
The Campaign for Science and Engineering (CaSE) says that to remain relevant and resilient and meet future economic, societal and geopolitical challenges, the research (R&D) sector must strengthen its foundations, increase collaboration, and be more strategic.
CaSE's Reimagining R&D report, which was formed via consultation with UK R&D, recommends four actions for government and the sector :
- Nurture and strengthen the foundations of the R&D base with policies that recognise the sector’s diversity and support the pathways of both research and development.
- Provide sustained support and continuity through long-term funding to secure infrastructure, build lasting partnerships and maintain public confidence.
- Prioritise and be more strategic to compete globally, attract investment, and deepen international collaboration.
- Make the R&D sector more visible and clearer about its value so it earns lasting public and political support.
The vision, published earlier this year, identifies the need to strengthen the R&D base if by 2045 the R&D system is to be one that: delivers benefits for the economy and society; is embedded in society with greater public involvement; fosters national capability while being outward looking and features in an open innovation system, with strong public and private collaboration.
CaSE carried out a deeper exploration of the vision through a series of roundtables. Each roundtable had representatives from CaSE’s members and the wider sector, spanning universities, research institutes, Government, not-for profits, industry and learned and professional societies. The three roundtables focused on the different themes of the vision, with conversations considering the current policy environme
Dr Daniel Rathbone, Deputy Executive Director at CaSE, says, 'Achieving this vision will require deliberate choices by the sector and by policymakers. We live in a rapidly changing world that presents a deep challenge for the R&D sector but also a real opportunity for positive change.
'By enacting the policies we need now and by telling a compelling story about how R&D contributes to a better future we can take the first steps towards a positive vision.'
