New report says “Scotland as ideal test-bed” for improvements to research-policy exchange

A new report suggests how we can better bridge university research and policy needs, to improve how research feeds into policy. The report, commissioned by the Royal Society of Edinburgh and Universities Scotland, points to the massive uptick in research-policy exchange over the past two decades.

However, it warns that activity is too often uncoordinated and unfocused. A key barrier is the divergent motivations and needs of research organisations and government in engaging in RPE. The report sets out a simple framework to help both researchers and policy-makers understand the different functions of research in policy, and design exchange in more targeted and cost-effective way.

The report focuses on the Scottish case, which represents an excellent test bed for new approaches.

It is part of a wider initiative to improve RPE in Scotland, which is developing a shared pledge for research organisations, policy organisations and knowledge brokers to strengthen RPE.

The report, entitled Research-Policy Exchange in Scotland, highlights the potential for improvements to the interface between academic research and implementation of policy, if Scotland’s relatively small scale, interconnectivity and collaboration are properly harnessed.

Professor Christina Boswell FRSE, who chaired the report, said: “There have been a lot of encouraging developments in RPE in the last decade or so. We have seen higher education institutions up their efforts, while governments at all levels have acknowledged the crucial need for robust knowledge to inform their policy decisions.

“But we still run up against challenges in aligning research with policy. Much of this reflects limited understanding of the different motivations guiding RPE – often leading to unfocused and fragmented activity. This report offers a simple framework to help researchers and policy-makers understand the different motivations which drive either government or research organisations.

“Scotland offers an excellent test-bed for trying out new approaches – hosting a national government, parliament, and outstanding universities. Its smaller scale and strong connectivity also enable coordinated initiatives that can get buy-in from across the research-policy ecosystem.

“We hope the findings of this report can help us better align goals and activities across research and government – and look forward to working with partners across the ecosystem to implement its recommendations.”

Professor Calum Semple, Chief Scientific Adviser for Scotland, added: “Scotland’s world-leading universities already work with government to add value to policy. This project suggests ways to develop that relationship so that, from the latest technological developments to studies on health and social issues, the Scottish Government can benefit more from the expert input of our researchers.

“I look forward to working more closely with our universities to strengthen the links between them and the Scottish Government, for the benefit of our people, environment and economy.”