UK must adapt to keep research lead

This was the warning given by the Council of Science and Technology (CST) following the release of its report on the future of scientific research in the UK.

The report, by senior figures from across the field of science, engineering and technology, analyses the state of science and research within the UK against a rapidly changing global situation.

The CST called for the government to increase the timescale for achieving a PhD degree to four years, with the first one or two years potentially leading to a masters degree.

It is argued that this would more likely allow students to develop specific and widely deployable skills.

The report also addressed potential budget cuts, stressing that investment should be sustained in UK research despite the difficult period for public spending.

The government, the CST stated, should invest in a new framework for research to allow it to be more easily translated into real-world benefits and help tackle global challenges.