At the same time, the Nurse Report – a review of UK science funding commissioned by the Government – is calling for one independent agency to liaise with ministers in order to determine priorities when it comes to UK research and science funding.
The report, produced by Sir Paul Nurse, president of the Royal Society, suggests the UK’s seven Research Councils should evolve into one body called Research UK, headed by a highly distinguished scientist.
Research UK, he continues, should report to a single oversight board and have connections with and representation from Government departments, HEFCE and Innovate UK, better linking the various strands of government funded research.
The report’s author believes that, in return for proposed reforms, the research community will enjoy increased financial security and greater engagement from politicians, while helping to place science at the heart of government.
Protecting science is crucial. But do we want greater political control over funding in the UK?
