Scientists and engineers make many vital contributions to the UK’s economy,but one of the most important in today’s high-technology world is that of innovative research and development (R&D).For the UK ’s world-class science base to provide a firm foundation for R&D,it is important that businesses,universities and the public sector are able to attract and retain high-quality scientists and engineers from the UK and around the world.
In response to concerns that innovative businesses in the UK sometimes find it difficult to recruit the skilled researchers they need,the Government has asked me to lead an independent review of the supply of scientists and engineers in the UK. As well as examining the numbers of scientists and engineers in the UK and the jobs they do,I will be looking at the skills needed by businesses for their R&D activity,and at the skills gained by science and engineering graduates and postgraduate students,particularly PhD students.A major focus of the work will be to investigate how businesses and universities communicate and collaborate in providing relevant training to students.
My team and I will be discussing the issues in this paper with people from business and universities,including students,in a series of meetings over the coming months.I would be very grateful for your comments on the key issues described here.Your views will inform future work,leading to a final report in February 2002 which is expected to influence the Government ’s next spending review.I very much look forward to hearing from you.
The preferred deadline for responses is 31 July 2001. If you are unable to meet this deadline, your views would still be welcome as soon as is practical.
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