Minister launches international strategy to place UK as leader in science
Science minister Chris Skidmore has launched the International Research and Innovation Strategy in a bid to ensure the UK is a global leader in science.
At the EUREKA Global Innovation Summit, the minister also announced £4 million funding competitions to help companies get their new innovations to market.
Science minister Chris Skidmore said: “In future, our businesses won’t just be entering new markets – they’ll be making them. We are living through enormous technological, social and environmental change.
“Science and innovation have no borders, and this new strategy reflects our aspirations to see the UK draw systemically on research and innovation collaboration to build its economic growth while tackling global challenges. We’ve already backed this ambition by committing £7 billion over 5 years by 2022.”
The competitions are:
- GlobalStars call with Singapore (£1 million) - GlobalStars funding competition between Singapore, the Netherlands and UK – focused on medical technology, smart mobility and logistics and advanced manufacturing
- Smart Manufacturing Cluster call (£2 million) - applicants are invited to submit R&D&I project proposals in the area of Advanced Manufacturing applications and technologies
- Artificial Intelligence and Quantum (£1 million) – collaboration between Austria, Belgium, Canada, Israel, Denmark, Spain, Switzerland, South Korea, Turkey and the UK
At the heart of these projects is building business relationships whilst developing new technologies such as artificial intelligence, quantum technologies and using technology in healthcare to improve life chances.
Graham Stuart, Minister for Investment, said: “The UK’s record levels of foreign investment are sustained by our reputation as a world leader in technology and innovation.
“This announcement will ensure the UK and UK businesses remain on the forefront of cutting-edge innovation and we retain our status among global investors as the top destination for investment in Europe.”
UKRI chief executive, Professor Sir Mark Walport, added: “UK Research and Innovation welcomes the publication of the International Research and Innovation Strategy, which emphasises the importance of global collaboration to the research and innovation sector.
“Working with international partners is essential for addressing major global and societal challenges, while also helping to deliver economic impact and enhance quality of life across the UK.”