New HEPI Report ‘Interconnected Innovation: Physical connectivity as the missing ingredient in UK research and innovation policy’

“The UK’s research strengths are world-class, but too often they operate in isolation rather than as part of a connected national system. A new HEPI report argues that better transport and infrastructure links could unlock significant gains in collaboration, innovation and economic growth. Interconnected Innovation: Physical connectivity as the missing ingredient in UK research and innovation policy (Report 202) challenges policymakers to rethink how research investment is assessed and delivered. The report highlights evidence that improving physical connections between places can have a dramatic impact on collaboration, with one study finding that linking cities through cost-effective flights can increase scientific partnerships by as much as 30 to 50 per cent. Yet despite these potential gains, transport connectivity remains largely absent from discussions about research funding and innovation policy. The authors argue that the UK’s relatively compact geography should be a major competitive advantage, but that current approaches often focus too heavily on individual institutions or regions rather than the networks that connect them. The report calls for greater investment not only in research assets but also in the “connective tissue” of the research ecosystem, including transport links, shared infrastructure, mobility schemes and collaborative networks. In doing so, it offers a fresh perspective on how the UK can maximise the value of its existing research strengths. At a time when policymakers are searching for ways to boost productivity, innovation and economic growth, this report makes the case for a more joined-up approach that aligns research policy with infrastructure planning. To read the press release and find a download link to the full report, click here. The post New HEPI Report ‘Interconnected Innovation: Physical connectivity as the missing ingredient in UK research and innovation policy’ appeared first on HEPI .

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