Preview of Tour Theme 2: The impact of research and changes in research funding on the HE sector

In common with the UK, many HE systems performance manage the research funding of universities. It therefore is of interest to compare the experiences in the Dutch and Flemish systems, and the strategies their HEIs have adopted in response to this.

This theme is being led by Ruth Coomber and Marion Malcolm. Topics include the following.

1. What is your funding portfolio strategy ie mix of national government, EU, charity, industry, other funders? 
2. How do you seek to collaborate with researchers/institutions in your country, in Europe and internationally? (Or do you compete more?)
3. How do you measure the impact of the research you carry out and how do you define impact?  eg for the UK REF – (Research Excellence Framework) exercise, impact is defined as ‘an effect on, change or benefit to the economy, society, culture, public policy or services, health, the environment or quality of life, beyond academia’. 
4. What is your strategy for building research capacity to develop the research leaders of the future? eg developing your own students and staff internally (through PhD studentships or fellowships) or external appointments.  Who are the main funders for PhD studentships and fellowships?
5. What is your quality assurance process for research? Eg peer reviewing of grant applications internally within your university, research monitoring visits etc
6. What is your strategy on innovation and engagement activities?  eg knowledge exchange projects within communities and innovation and development links with businesses.

As always comments or suggested resources are always welcome.