Viewpoint

Two researchers critique the methodology the Commission uses to compile its annual innovation rankings – and urge a different approach

The Commission turned to expert foresight analysis to help it design its next big research programme for the 2020s. Nikos Kastrinos, who led the study, describes how it worked

After ten long years, the European economy has recovered from the crash. Now it is time to power ahead by boosting investment, says Werner Hoyer at a Science|Business conference

Money for research and infrastructure helps, but really, the east of Europe needs to attract and retain talent

If science diplomacy is to thrive, researchers need to spend quality time on producing summaries of their work that can be digested by busy officials, businesspeople and politicians

President Trump’s move to impose tariffs on steel and aluminum imports has fired the starting gun on an innovation war, in which the US aims to protect advanced technologies from Chinese incursions. Europe risks being caught in the cross fire

The Commission has proposed a big rise in research funding – but in coming negotiations it will face stiff budget competition from politically stronger interests, from agriculture to regions 

Sweden’s experience in shifting the focus of EU-funded research from a thematic base to a defined, higher-impact approach could provide a template for mission-oriented research in Framework Programme 9. That would also open up FP9 to less-developed regions and third countries

Viewpoint: More EU ministers and commissioners are voicing support for bigger research and innovation funding – but the political argument is a long way from won