Uncertainty is undermining the previously positive relationship between Ireland’s scientific research community and the main State body that funds research, Science Foundation Ireland. Scientists in pure mathematics, astrophysics and other so-called “blue skies” research areas believe funding will dry up for their disciplines. Their concerns arise following last March’s report by the Research Prioritisation Steering Group, set up to provide advice about how the Government should spend its science budget, including the €150 million spent annually by the foundation.
Since then Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation Richard Bruton and the Minister of State for Research and Innovation Seán Sherlock have repeatedly declared research should lead to practical outcomes and a return must be received from the State investment in science. The director general of the foundation, Mark Ferguson, has echoed this call, stressing the need to support research excellence but also “impact science” that returns benefits to the State in terms of jobs and wealth. News that the office of the chief scientific adviser was to be abolished and this role transferred to Ferguson has deepened academic concerns.
While scientists are not opposed to the idea that their discoveries could lead to products, services and jobs, those working in disciplines where the returns are less obvious feel under pressure. If they cannot demonstrate their work has societal impact, is funding to be withdrawn? This is what the general research community now fears. Research must also be about education and student development and not just impact, academics argue. There are serious consequences for Ireland if the feeling persists that funding for research is drying up. Our vibrant research community is a major draw for foreign direct investment, and this could be put under threat. Funding cuts will also force too many of our post-doctoral researchers to seek positions abroad. The uncertainty has persisted for too long.