Is UK business missing out on science talent?
15 Dec 2008 by Evoluted New Media
The UK risks losing out on top talent unless the Government and business works harder to foster a culture of innovation in the UK, according to new research by Toshiba.
The UK risks losing out on top talent unless the Government and business works harder to foster a culture of innovation in the UK, according to new research by Toshiba.
The study asked over 300 post-graduates in science and technology about their career plans and experience of how academia and industry work together. 76% of post-graduates would consider moving to another country in order to gain experiences in research and development.
David Gleaves, a former Toshiba Fellow who is now chief executive of NHS innovation hub Midtech, said: “The UK is known for being home to some of the best universities in the world. The results of this survey show that businesses still aren’t taking advantage of this knowledge. Companies need to work closely with academic institutions to spot innovative opportunities at the root.”
These results indicate that the security of the nation’s industrial and economical progress will be at risk unless Government and businesses make the UK a more attractive place to pursue a career in R&D.
The study commissioned by the Toshiba Fellowship Programme, a UK-Japanese cross-cultural exchange aimed at sharing scientific and technological research knowledge and experience, which is run in association with the EPSRC, and conducted by ICM Research also showed that 90% of the post-graduates asked have concerns about their future. Competitiveness for jobs, choices available for employment and potential salary are the biggest concerns, suggesting these are the key reasons why many do not continue to invest their knowledge into science and technology after university.
