International Research: a Strategy for the UK Research Councils

Since the submission of evidence to this inquiry, Research Councils UK has published its strategy for international engagement. This document sets out five aims:

A1.  Encourage collaboration between UK researchers and the best researchers around the world. International collaboration exposes UK researchers to new ideas and fresh approaches, and enables them to compare their work with the best elsewhere. Much world class research for the public good can be achieved only through global collaboration. RCUK aims to make it simpler for UK researchers to collaborate with their preferred research partners around the world by supporting enabling activities and removing barriers.

A2.  Promote the movement of researchers to and from the UK. Many researchers benefit from working overseas, particularly in the early part of their careers. It provides them with different skills and ideas and lays the foundation for career-long collaborations. RCUK will promote the UK as a place to undertake research, encourage UK researchers to spend time overseas, and equip them with the skills they need to thrive there.

A3.  Give UK researchers access to data, facilities and resources. The Research Councils aim to provide UK researchers with the best national facilities, but in many cases research needs to be undertaken overseas or in international facilities and we will continue to work to facilitate access to the resources necessary for research, whether in the UK or overseas.

A4.  Influence the international agenda. As a strong research nation, the UK has a major role to play in influencing international research policy and delivery, and in maximising its impact. As well as its reputation in research, the UK is seen as a world leader in areas such as research ethics, peer review and public engagement. By exerting their influence overseas, Research Councils will enhance the reputation of UK research and make it the international partner of choice.

A5.  Promote the UK as a world centre for research and innovation. The UK is a favoured location for research by companies from around the world. Several of the UK's most successful industries, notably pharmaceutical, have a world perspective. They are dependent on research and need to know that UK science is of world standard. RCUK will work to ensure that Britain remains an attractive environment for research and innovation.

The full strategy can be found at:

http://www.rcuk.ac.uk/cmsweb/downloads/rcuk/publications/international.pdf.

September 2007