The group of experts from the European Commission has delivered to the Minister of Economy and Competitiveness, Luis de Guindos, the conclusions of the report that analyzes the situation of Spanish R & D & I. The main recommendation made by the so-called European Research Area Committee (ERAC) peer review en "Increase available resources, although this increase must be associated with structural reforms". Among these improvements, the definition of a new research career stands out through a “radical” change, facing an institutional reform, carrying out an “effective” follow-up and an evaluation by objectives that considers the quality and impact of the actions, achieving greater level of coordination between the different actors in the system, increase the number of companies that invest in R + D + I, launch the Research Agency and increase synergies to support the private sector and business creation.
The report, carried out at the initiative of the Ministry of Economy and Competitiveness, recognizes the levels of excellence achieved in research, although it points out that the average is low. In the business sphere, it points out the small number of large companies and SMEs with R&D capabilities. Regarding regional coordination mechanisms, he explains that they are insufficient, leading to duplication and divided governance, especially in the case of universities.
Among the ten recommendations in the summary of the report delivered today to the minister – the final one will be announced soon – the panel of experts proposes greater strategic planning that has broad political consensus and that public resources reach 0.7% of GDP in the next three years (currently it is 0.61%) to boost business spending on R&D. Regarding human resources, he warns about the need to change the structure and management of the research career so that mobility is promoted, talent and merit are promoted and alternatives to the civil service model are sought.
Experts suggest that public research organizations (OPIs) and universities undergo an evaluation system that ensures that public resources are allocated to the best centers, projects and researchers, as well as recommending that administrations equip these institutions of greater autonomy and to tackle a reform of the IPOs.
Regarding innovation, the report considers that public-private collaboration aimed at innovation must be promoted and initiatives in strategic and competitive areas that are led by companies must be established. Furthermore, it highlights the need to increase the number of small and, above all, medium-sized companies that invest in R + D + I through new measures. Finally, it invites to erect an innovative culture and to encourage regional synergies in support of the private sector and the creation of companies.
The so-called peer review It also recommends the creation of an Agency for Research that implements part of the proposed reforms and suggests that an evaluation and effective monitoring of R & D & I policies and results be carried out.
