Supplementary memorandum submitted by
the John Innes Centre (SFS 36a)
FURTHER THINKING
ON HOW
FUNDING SHOULD
FLOW
We believe that funding for LINK projects has
to be based on a developed, mutually beneficial relationship between
an industrial partner and an academic partner. This is a process
that requires dialogue and considerable effort from both parties
and when done effectively will ensure that the best possible science
is achieved along with the best possible outcomes, academically
and in application. It is not a process that can be conceived
through identification of an industrial, end-user need to which
academic institutions would bid to on a purely contractual basis.
This is unlikely to lead to the best science quality. Mechanisms
are required that will simplify building and strengthening links
between academia and industry.
We understand that Sustainable Arable LINK committee
will only have a few more meetings this year before it's absorbed
into the Technology Strategy Board. The TSB would need to be cognizant
of the arguments given above on science quality and the impact
of relationship development and mechanism on this. We are seeking
to engage with the TSB on this specific issue.
April 2009
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