RCUK welcomes Sir Andrew Witty’s review of universities and growth

Sir Andrew Witty’s review of universities and growth, titled Encouraging a British Invention Revolution, published today (15 October 2013), highlights the strength of the UK research base and the vital contribution that UK universities make to economic growth. Working with the Department of Business, Innovation and Skills, Research Councils UK (RCUK) will consider his recommendations.

The review focuses on the need for universities and business to work together. RCUK takes a leading role in fostering engagement between business and researchers. We take a variety of approaches to support innovation and deliver impact from research, including the development of collaborative research programmes, investment in major research capabilities, such as national facilities, and the support of impact related capabilities.

RCUK is committed to continually improving business access to research information and the RCUK Gateway to Research, which will officially launch in December 2013, will give businesses access to research data sourced from across the Research Councils, helping them identify potential partners in universities to develop and commercialise knowledge.

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Further information

Contact:
Katie Clark
Press and Communications Manager
Tel: 01793 444592 or email: Katie Clark

Notes to editors

1. Encouraging a British invention revolution: Sir Andrew Witty's review of universities and growth is available on the BIS website.

2. Research Councils UK (RCUK) is the strategic partnership of the UK's seven Research Councils who annually invest around £3 billion in research. We support excellent research, as judged by peer review, that has an impact on the growth, prosperity and wellbeing of the UK. To maintain the UK’s global research position we offer a diverse range of funding opportunities, foster international collaborations and provide access to the best facilities and infrastructure around the world. We also support the training and career development of researchers and work with them to inspire young people and engage the wider public with research. To maximise the impact of research on economic growth and societal wellbeing we work in partnership with other research funders including the Technology Strategy Board, the UK Higher Education funding bodies, business, government, and charitable organisations. www.rcuk.ac.uk.

   The seven UK Research Councils are:

   • Arts & Humanities Research Council (AHRC);
   • Biotechnology & Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC);
   • Economic & Social Research Council (ESRC);
   • Engineering & Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC);
   • Medical Research Council (MRC);
   • Natural Environment Research Council (NERC);
   • Science & Technology Facilities Council (STFC).