THE DILEMMA OF

PUBLIC FUNDING BALANCE

More funding,

more findings?

In the countries we’ve studied, governments are generally seen as supportive of R&D. Despite this, the proportion of government funding as a percentage of total R&D funding declined between 2000 to 2018. This could be a problem for long-term, greenfield research which is a springboard for innovation. What can be done to ensure the right balance between public and private-sector funding? What’s the most effective way for funding to be utilized in order to increase the productivity of scientific research?   

  • 77%

    say their country’s government has adequately prioritized scientific research

  • 25%

    say the balance between funding and focus on the three different stages of research is about right

  • 3-13%

    Percentage points by which the share of government funding for R&D fell between 2000 and 2018

    graphical view of a small microscope under a microscope
    Do we need

    research on scientific research?

    What's the current state of scientific research productivity? What questions need to be asked to ensure such research is more productive in the future? We’ve conducted a study to explore which levers need to be pulled to increase productivity.

    Download Whitepaper
    Join the

    conversation

    What are your thoughts on the current state of productivity in scientific research? Do you have ideas on how scientific research can be more productive? Join the discussion in our LinkedIn group or participate in one of our other social media channels using the hashtag #productivescience

    The other Key Findings

    • The Short-Termism Hamster Wheel

      Researchers are under pressure to produce results faster. Ironically, many scientists can't keep up with what's being published as they’re busy publishing. How do we get off this Hamster Wheel?

      Learn More

    • The Collaboration Paradox

      Internal collaboration drives research productivity, half our survey respondents claim. But large teams are seen as a significant barrier to research productivity. How can we ensure productive collaboration?

      Learn More

    • The Complexity Trap

      These days, research requires larger teams with greater individual specialization. But larger teams are harder to manage. This may negatively impact productivity. What’s the solution?

      Learn More

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      Let’s keep the heart

      OF HUMAN PROGRESS BEATING

      Societal and economic developments are changing our lives. Our constant curiosity and passion for science and technology enable human progress. Are you curious about our mission and our study on scientific research productivity? If so, tap here.

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