million+ comments on allocation of research funding
Following the publication of research funding allocations to universities in England by the Higher Education Funding Council, HEFCE, the university think-tank has said that the allocations confirm the strength of research in modern universities and called on governments north and south of the border to invest in research infrastructure across the sector and translational research which supports growth and innovation.
Pam Tatlow, Chief Executive of the university think-tank million+, said:
"In spite of the fact that different formulas were used by the Funding Councils in Scotland and England to allocate research funding, it is clear that modern universities have performed well. While there are inevitably winners and losers across the sector, the message to government is clear. There is huge talent and the potential to drive innovation in universities which play a key role in their localities and regions.
"The allocation of this research funding should not be the end of the story. There is an urgent need to invest in the research infrastructure and translational research in universities which still get a relatively small slice of the taxpayer-funded research 'cake'. This would benefit local economies, support private and public sector organisations to innovate and provide important opportunities for the students and academics of the future in universities which have excelled at attracting undergraduate and postgraduate students of all ages and from a wide range of backgrounds."
