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Study of science research infrastructure: a report by JM Consulting

Summary

In May 2001 the UK higher education funding bodies - with the DfES, the Office of Science and Technology, the Treasury and Universities UK - commissioned independent consultants JM Consulting to look at investment in university research infrastructure.

This report presents the outcomes of the study for science research. Related reports have been published by the HEFCE on the infrastructure for learning and teaching (HEFCE 2002/31) and for research in the arts and humanities (HEFCE 2002/35).

The science report reviews the past investment in infrastructure for science research in UK HEIs, assesses the extent of remedial investment required, and sets out the conditions needed to manage the research infrastructure on a sustainable basis in future.

It recommends a package of measures including:

  • self-help by the HE sector taking greater responsibility of managing its own assets
  • a funding programme to address capital back-logs
  • action by research funders to ensure that research grants reflect the true costs of the activities
  • continuing government support for leading-edge infrastructure projects.

The findings are not government policy, but will be used to inform the Science and Research Cross Cutting Review being undertaken by the Treasury.

Last updated 26 October 2006