The 2021 National Research Infrastructure (NRI) Roadmap recognises the key role research-intensive universities play in boosting productivity, commercialising R&D, and delivering life-changing and life-saving technologies.
Group of Eight (Go8) Chief Executive Vicki Thomson said investment in research infrastructure will be a critical investment in Australia’s future and economic prosperity.
“The Roadmap addresses one of Australia’s most critical issues – the importance of a skilled workforce – with the recommendation for the Expert NRI Advisory Group to immediately develop a NRI Workforce Strategy to enhance the skills base and career pathways of NRI specialists and support staff.
“It also identifies as critical, support for fundamental research – which we strongly endorse,” Ms Thomson said.
‘We also strongly support the acknowledgement of the contribution national research infrastructure can and should make to humanities, arts and social sciences (HASS) research, which is critical to the health and well-being of the nation.
“Our world-class researchers need funding certainty and ongoing investment in research infrastructure provides the framework necessary to attract and retain the highly skilled research workforce necessary to deliver on national priorities and leverage international collaboration.
“The Go8 contributed to the development of the NRI Roadmap, and this 10-year strategy will ensure Australia’s research infrastructure is capable of meeting the needs of our world class research and innovation sector.”
Go8 universities undertake 70 per cent of all university based research in Australia and are partners, hosts and/or lead organisations in almost every current National Research Infrastructure (NRI) facility.
“We urge the Government to adopt the eight recommendations developed by the expert advisory group which aim to strengthen, modernise and future-proof the national research infrastructure system and ensure our university sector has the capability to meet emerging challenges.
“The Go8 is committed to working with Government to implement the 2021 National Research Infrastructure Roadmap and contribute to the economic and social well-being of the nation.”
