Best of UK research highlighted
As the UK government continues to discuss the future shape of research assessment and funding, Universities UK has produced a book celebrating 50 years of life changing research in the country. The publication, 'Eureka UK', highlights 100 major discoveries, developments and inventions by academics at UK universities, and covers the medical, physical and social sciences as well as the arts and humanities. Included in the book are the unlocking of the DNA code, the first programmable computer, the discovery of pulsars and artificial cows combating disease in Africa. 'Who can imagine a world now without CDs and DVDs, test-tube babies, or computers? None of these would have been possible without the work and dedication of academics in the UK,' said Dianne Warwick, Chief Executive of Universities UK. 'We need continued investment from government and industry if we are to maintain our high standards and see similar groundbreaking discoveries at our universities over the next 50 years.' In particular, the authors hope the examples used will demonstrate to research funders both the unpredictable nature of research, and the length of time it can take to measure its success. Universities UK will distribute the publication to secondary schools, with the hope that it will spark an interest in discovery and inspire young people to go to university.
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United Kingdom