Science and the University: Challenges for Future Research

Abstract

Scientific research has played a critical role in the life of the university for a considerable period of time, both in Europe and in the US. While much remains the same in the relationship between science and the university, considerable change has occurred in recent years. Here we outline three changes in this relationship, focusing both on the consequences for the university and on questions of research interest to those interested in higher education. The three changes are: (i) increased incentives to publish; (ii) changes in the reward system and (iii) increased reliance by governments and communities on universities and institutes as a source of economic growth. (JEL codes: I23)

Keywords: Science policy, research, universities.