Research and innovation

Investing in research and innovation is essential for tackling global-scale challenges from climate, planetary heath and security, to our ability to manage future shocks, from manmade disasters to pandemics. It generates the new knowledge, technologies and jobs that power a successful economy and improve people’s lives and opportunities.

Building on the UK’s strengths in science, research and innovation can deliver a better future.  However, the country faces rapidly increasing global competition for R&D talent and investment. The UK should be pushing to lead the G7 group of nations on R&D intensity, while developing a long-term plan for science that ensures a stable environment for pursuing ground-breaking discoveries and innovations.

Since its early focus on the application of the experimental method, the Society has been a leader in shaping the character of the scientific enterprise. The Royal Society is working to create a strong and healthy science system in the UK, built on the ideas and talents of researchers across academia, industry, and other sectors, which can benefit us all.