On scientific excellence and research universities in context of Law 2.0

Abstract

Since mid-2016 a debate has been going on about the necessary changes in the system of science and higher education in Poland. One of its elements is the discussion on how to improve the level of scientific excellence, recognition of Polish science worldwide and its internationalization. The paper puts forward proposals for several solutions helping to attain those goals. This concerns in particular an increase in the number of prestigious international grants redeemed at Polish universities, particularly those awarded by ERC. The paper also proposes criteria for selection of the universities that might obtain additional financing for transformation into research intensive universities. They would be based on demonstration of the path of the changes to be carried out, which require additional financing. The main aim of the paper is to propose specific solutions that might be applied in a new legislation regulating the issues of science and higher education.