British Academy: The UK's National Academy for the Humanities and Social Sciences

Investing in excellence: the needs and contribution of the UK research base

The British Academy is delighted to have been asked by Professor Adrian Smith, Director General of Science and Research at BIS, to submit evidence for a consultation on the priorities and impact of the UK research base, in the context of the upcoming Spending Review.

In its submission, the Academy has emphasised the importance of excellent research – across a range of disciplines, including the social and natural sciences, and humanities – to the UK’s economic, social and cultural life.

Investing in excellence: The needs and contribution of the UK research base identifies seven key recommendations to which government should pay close attention when deciding how funding will fall:
• Focus on Excellence. 
• Develop a long term framework for research.
• Maintain diversity and breadth in funding.
• Maintain the current balance between QR and project funding.
• Adjust the distribution of non-QR research funding.
• Encourage international networks and collaboration.
• Invest in the most talented researchers.

The advice was submitted with a joint covering letter from the presidents of the British Academy and the Royal Society, highlighting the necessity of supporting funding for UK research across the spectrum, in order to tackle the challenges faced by the UK, now and in the future.