Barriers

Abstract

We are in a time of grand challenges. At all levels of research policy, funding and scientific practice the impetus is to address major societal problems, using innovative approaches, drawing on the expertise of multiple disciplines. A number of shifts can be understood to underpin this challenge-led form of working, including: evolving modes of knowledge production; economics, both local and global; material transformations in the climate, Earth and food systems and the demand for accountability in the public realm. In response to this, research structures are being reorganised to facilitate delivery on these challenges. One such change regards the increasing participation of industrial partners in academic research projects, co-funding of academic work by companies and the rise of co-production of knowledge, scientific objects and new technologies as an ideal mode of implementing these partnerships. In this regard, the involvement of industry in academic work is becoming normalised in particular ways.

Here’s an invitation to the world! Can anyone solve this problem?

(Water Company R&D Manager 1)