A study of research infrastructures
As the world advances at an unprecedented rate, more research is required in many new and important fields such as energy, water resources, epidemic diseases, climate change, security and sustainability. In this light, the EU-funded project 'European research infrastructures development watch' (ERID-WATCH) sought to strengthen research infrastructures in Europe. It studied the impact of research and exploitation of research results, as well as the relationship between research institutions and industry. Importantly, the project aimed to contribute to the impact assessment of research results in the future. ERID-WATCH conducted two important studies on the efficiency and impact of the European research infrastructures market, producing two reports that addressed the roles of government and industry as well. The project also outlined recommendations to funding parties, users, suppliers and research infrastructures themselves. Dividing the research infrastructure market into two categories, i.e. the scientific market and the industrial market, the project identified weak points and areas for improvement. It addressed areas such as staff mobility and development of new tools among others. In conclusion, ERID-WATCH proposed the formation of a European information forum for research infrastructures through a web portal, containing key information on key research facilities. It aimed to support the development of a 'marketplace' between research infrastructures and companies, particularly SMEs, encouraging early involvement in projects and intensive networking. The project results were highlighted on its website, as well as through a handbook on its findings.
