UK-Brazil Collaborative Research Networks: Evaluation of pilot project
Summary
1. This report is an evaluation of the Brazil-UK Collaborative Research Networks pilot project which ran from 2000 to 2003. It is intended as a basis of developing good practice for further similar collaborations. The project arose from discussions between the UK and Brazilian governments during a visit to Brazil in 1998 by the Minister for Education and Employment, Baroness Blackstone. A number of federal- and state-funded research networks with links to industry had been established in Brazil, and it was proposed that the UK establish similar networks and that international collaborations might ensue. The principal partner in Brazil was the Carlos Chagas Filho Rio de Janeiro State Foundation for the Endowment of Research (FAPERJ).
2. Three academic networks were established in the UK in the areas of catalysis in the petroleum industry, corrosion protection and phytopharmaceuticals. The HEFCE's primary interest in funding this project was to pioneer a new form of international research collaboration with a strong applied focus.
3. Proposals for funding were submitted to the HEFCE and each was considered by an independent assessor. The total funding released to the UK networks over the period of the pilot was £200,070.
4. Conclusions in this report include the need to build in sufficient time in the early stages of the network for relationships to be established, and a need to consider cultural expectations in the countries involved in joint working. Also emphasised is the need to include in initial discussions all with a stake in the network, such as industrial partners, to ensure that its work is focused and relevant. In particular, ways to involve industry actively as well as identify and address national research priorities should be considered.
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Report
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Appendix 1 - Framework for Brazil-UK Research Networks Pilot Programme
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Appendix 2 - Statement of Process and Request for Proposals
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Appendix 3 - Project Milestones
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Appendix 4 - Brazilian-UK Collaboration in International Research Networks
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Appendix 5 - Framework for Annual Report of UK Network Co-ordinators
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Appendix 6 - Terms of Reference
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Appendix 7.1 - Final Report of Networks - Catalysis
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Appendix 7.2 - Final Report of Networks - Corrosion
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Appendix 7.3 - Final Report of Networks - Phytopharmaceuticals
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Appendix 8 - Websites of the Three Networks
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Appendix 9 - Intellectual Property Rights
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Last updated 4 September 2003