Universities in the UK are being forced to cut back on vital research projects, including work on serious illnesses like cancer, heart disease, and dementia, because of falling funding from both the government and charities, a new report has warned.
The report, published by Universities UK, found that one in five universities have already reduced their research activity in areas such as life sciences, medicine, and environmental studies. Many said they expect even deeper cuts in the coming years due to growing financial pressures.
Charities play a big role in funding medical and life sciences research, but universities are “backing away” from charity-funded projects because of the high extra costs involved.
Dan Hurley, deputy director of policy at Universities UK, said the findings are a serious warning for the country’s ability to remain competitive in global research.
He explained that inflation has reduced the value of government research grants, while falling numbers of international students have made it harder for universities to cover research costs by using tuition fee income.
The study also showed a decline in research staff
A 4% drop in biological, mathematical, and physical sciences over the past three years.
A 2% drop in medicine, dentistry, and health, especially in expensive areas such as clinical medicine.
These cuts are also harming research culture. University managers reported lower staff morale, fewer opportunities for early career researchers, and less participation in conferences and knowledge-sharing events.
University research currently contributes around £54 billion a year to the UK economy, but the report warned this contribution could shrink if financial constraints continue.
Hurley stressed that while universities are trying to improve efficiency, further efficiencies are not going to be enough.
He called on the government to urgently review funding arrangements, especially quality-related funding, which has not kept up with inflation for the past decade.
Without action, the UK risks losing its position as a world leader in research and innovation, the report concluded.
Read also: UK Universities face bankruptcy over decline in Int’l students
