Marvin OnumonuA new group called ‘ResearchPlus’ has been set up by 10 research-focused universities to give these institutions a stronger say in UK research and innovation.
The group aims to work closely with Government, business and civil society, focusing on economic growth and societal wellbeing across the UK.
ResearchPlus plans to support the Government’s Industrial Strategy across all eight high-growth sectors.
The group will start collaborative work over the next few months, with a formal launch in parliament expected in the autumn.
A spokesperson for ResearchPlus said: “Currently, a significant number of research-focused universities are not aligned to any university mission group.
“This is a particular problem for the research and innovation challenges the UK faces.
“We cannot afford not to make the most of the UK’s research and innovation capabilities and capacities.”
“Through the creation of a new collaborative, ResearchPlus, leading research-focused universities can make a stronger collective contribution to public and policy debates on research and innovation, research-informed higher education, and advanced skills, supporting policymakers and public goals.”
The spokesperson added: “Each ResearchPlus partner has outstanding research teams and specialist areas that are recognised as being amongst the very best in the world, attracting global talent in staff and students.
“Each is essential to the success of the industrial and business ecosystems, public services, and community and cultural life in their places.
“Together, they – and other similar universities – play the same role UK-wide.
“Today we are announcing our initial group of ten partners. Our intention is to grow the partnership with other leading research-focused universities and to develop a programme of work and activities to support our goals.”
Peter Kyle, secretary of state for science, innovation and technology, said: “The UK is home to some of the best universities in the world, making ResearchPlus an exciting opportunity to bring that top talent together to solve challenges and unlock new innovations that improve lives across our country.
“By strengthening collaboration between universities, industry and government we can break down barriers to opportunity and work together to drive the economic growth that is central to the Government’s Plan for Change.”
The initial ResearchPlus partners are Brunel University of London, City St George’s University of London, Keele University, Royal Holloway University of London, SOAS University of London, the University of Essex, the University of Hull, the Open University, the University of Sussex and Ulster University.
The group plans to expand to include other research-focused universities and develop further activities.
