Coordination of research
9.41. Our conclusion is that the attempts at
coordination so far made under the aegis of the research councils
are woefully inadequate. The image we have is of a series of ill-thought-out
initiatives which have long titles, short lives, vague terms of
reference, little infrastructure, and no sense of purpose. A radical
reorganisation is essential. (8.58)
9.42. We conclude that the bodies currently responsible
for the coordination of ageing-related research in the UK are
not doing the job. The situation needs to be transformed. We believe
however that this can be done without setting up a body modelled
on the United States National Institute on Aging. (8.83)
9.43. The responsibility for coordination must
lie with the Department of Trade and Industry and the Office of
Science and Technology. The Government's Chief Scientific Adviser
will have an important part to play. (8.84)
9.44. DTI and OST should set up a body with the
membership, constitution, powers and funding necessary to provide
the strategic oversight and direction of ageing-related research.
(8.85)
9.45. When deciding on the structure of this
body, DTI and OST should learn from the successful structure of
the National Cancer Research Institute. (8.86)
9.46. Close collaboration with charities and
private funders must be ensured by allowing them suitable representation.
(8.87)
9.47. There must be liaison with similar bodies
in other countries, and developments in those countries must be
taken into account. (8.88)
9.48. Among the most important responsibilities
of this body will be to promote research into ageing as a career
for the best young researchers, and to supervise career development.
(8.89)