The Swedish Research Council to demonstrate how basic research generates societal benefits

“We are pleased to have been entrusted with this important assignment. Basic research is essential for generating new knowledge, for the development and well-being of society, and for enabling us to address both the challenges we face today and those we cannot yet imagine,” says Katarina Bjelke, Director General of the Swedish Research Council.

However, the path from new knowledge to societal benefit can take many different forms, she emphasises.

“This includes, among other things, the development of knowledge, the commercialisation of research ideas, innovations, evidence-based decision-making, and the dissemination of research to the public. This assignment gives us an opportunity to deepen our understanding of the factors that promote greater research impact, as well as the barriers that may prevent it.”

What the new assignment involves

• analysing how basic research of the highest scientific quality generates benefits within universities and higher education institutions, the public sector, business and society at large
• drawing on international experience of research impact, as well as experience from other research funding organisations and higher education institutions
• where appropriate, proposing funding instruments or other measures to strengthen the uptake and use of basic research
• developing indicators for follow-up, where possible.

The assignment is to be reported by 1 September 2027 at the latest.

The Swedish Research Council has an overarching responsibility for coordinating communication about research and research results in Sweden. We encourage dialogue and collaboration between researchers, other societal actors and the general public.

Read more about the assignment on the Government’s website External link.