Universities are a crucial component of the research and development (R&D) ecosystem. A thriving research system generates significant benefits for the UK, driving not only economic growth but also societal advancements, sometimes in ways that are hard to measure.
In this latest briefing from the Campaign for Science and Engineering (CaSE), we have drawn on the breadth of expertise of our membership to capture the diverse benefits that university-led R&D brings to both the research landscape and to society more broadly. We have highlighted key themes and case studies, expanding the evidence base on the value university R&D brings across the UK, and ultimately supporting the sector’s advocacy for these vital institutions.
Read the full briefing
Read moreBenefits of University R&D
Knowledge and Expertise
Infrastructure and Facilities
Convener and Arbitrator
Civic and Cultural Contributor
Talent and Skills
De-risking Research and Innovation
Universities are under significant financial pressure. To deliver their role in the R&D ecosystem effectively, universities must be supported to achieve long-term financial sustainability.
CaSE heard overwhelmingly from stakeholders within the sector that universities are so intertwined in our research ecosystem that we can’t begin to predict the full cost of losing their R&D contribution at the regional and national level. These six benefits, although not always easily measured nor necessarily accompanied with clear and direct financial returns, underpin all UK R&D and its associated benefits to society and the economy.
Companies and service providers that rely on the supply of R&D and innovations universities provide will simply go and find it elsewhere rather than stay in the region, or even in the country. To retain this vital resource, it is imperative that the new Government supports UK universities to achieve long-term financial sustainability.
“The financial challenges facing universities across the UK are significant. Our briefing demonstrates that all those that care about the future of UK R&D must also care about the future of our universities.
“We will be working with policymakers to ensure they are aware of this strong evidence from our members and act to support a crucial component of UK R&D”
Dr Daniel Rathbone
Deputy Executive Director, Campaign for Science and Engineering (CaSE)
“University led R&D is a crucial part of the UK’s research system. The direct economic value is well documented, however we want to see more recognition of the many intangible benefits, highlighted in this briefing, that are just as critical.
“Drawing on the knowledge and experience of our membership, we have established a picture of how structurally embedded universities are in the UK research system. If we lose this vital component, the impact will be wide and hard to recover.”
Dr Florence Young
Policy Officer, Campaign for Science and Engineering (CaSE)
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