A new independent review has been launched by the Science Minister Amanda Solloway into how red tape can be cut to allow researchers to carry out their work better. The review will identify hurdles of UK research bureaucracy that hold the UK back in terms of securing a world-class research output. The study will be led by Professor Adam Tickell, Vice Chancellor at University of Sussex and delivers on the commitment by the UK Government in the strategic Research and Development Roadmap to minimise bureaucracy and help cement the UK’s status as a science superpower.

The study will provide recommendations to help reduce time-consuming administrative demands, freeing up researchers to work on pioneering research. This will also empower them to develop and mentor their teams and make a full contribution to the wider research community. Hurdles facing researchers include ambiguity over funding, overly complicated grant forms that require in-depth financial knowledge and the obligation of providing the same data multiple times in different formats to different funders.

“As we build back better by unleashing innovation, it’s crucial that we create a research environment that harnesses this same scientific speed and endeavour”, said Amanda Solloway. “This review will identify how we can free up our brightest minds from unnecessary red tape so they can continue making cutting edge discoveries, while cementing UK’s status as a science superpower”, she added. The system-wide review will conclude by early 2022, with interim findings due to be published this autumn. Broad engagement will be carried out with the entire research community in the UK, with a particular focus on higher education institutions.