University Research in Transition Summary of OECD Report

Abstract

Universities are key elements of the system of science in all OECD countries. Not only do they conduct scientific studies, but they also train scientists and highly qualified personnel. Important changes have taken place in recent years in the university setting that have had an impact on their research mission. Universities are becoming ever more diversified in respect to structure and more oriented to economic and industrial needs, but at the same time, which is especially evident in the countries of Continental Europe, they are admitting more students. All of this gives rise to the question, what to do so that universities will continue to make their unique contribution to long-range basic research and maintain a proper balance between research, teaching and the transfer of knowledge? Generally speaking, universities are reacting positively to the changes taking place around them and are able to adapt to them. They are evolving to new roles and tasks awaiting them in the 21st century. The article also discusses current trends and some of their long term implications, including the funding of university research studies and their internationalisation.