The National Research Organisations (NRO) Group has been officially launched at the Royal Academy of Sciences, London.
The collective, a first of its kind for the UK, brings together more than 100 leaders from government, research, academia, industry and funding organisations, marking a new chapter for the UK's research landscape.
The event formally launches the NRO Group as the collective voice of more than 40 of the UK's national science and research organisations, including the John Innes Centre and its near neighbours at Norwich Research Park, Quadram Institute and Earlham Institute.
Dr Clare Stevenson, FRS, Head of Science Co-ordination and Research Culture, at the John Innes Centre, said: "I was honoured to represent the John Innes Centre at this event. The sheer depth of collective knowledge and experience was inspiring, collectively representing over 41,000 dedicated people working across these vital organisations. I am looking forward to what this collaborative initiative can achieve. We are always stronger together."
Together, these organisations represent a unique national research capability dedicated to advancing science that benefits people, communities, the economy, the environment and national resilience.
The launch was attended by Science Minister Lord Patrick Vallance, and the Government Chief Scientific Adviser, Professor Dame Angela McLean, alongside directors of NRO member organisations and senior representatives from across the UK's research and innovation ecosystem.
The NRO Group was established in response to growing recognition that the UK research landscape would benefit from stronger strategic alignment, clearer governance and greater visibility of the capabilities provided by national research organisations. Bringing together these organisations under a single alliance, has never been more important: providing a coherent and authoritative voice on science, research policy and long-term investment.
The launch event highlighted how the NRO Group will work alongside Government, UKRI, academia and industry to support national priorities, strengthen research excellence and help deliver economic growth through science and innovation.
Science Minister Lord Patrick Vallance said: "The UK's strength in science and innovation depends on collaboration across our research ecosystem. National research organisations play a vital role in generating the knowledge, infrastructure and expertise that support economic growth, improve lives and help address the major challenges facing the country.
"I welcome the launch of the National Research Organisations Group and look forward to working with its members to maximise the impact of UK science and research."
Professor Sir Ian Chapman, Chief Executive of UK Research and Innovation, said: "The UK's national research organisations make an essential contribution to our research and innovation landscape. Their expertise, facilities and long-term capabilities are fundamental to delivering world-leading research and supporting the ambitions set out in UKRI's strategy."
Government Chief Scientific Adviser Professor Dame Angela McLean said: "The launch of the National Research Organisations Group marks an important step in harnessing science advice and expert knowledge to shape better policy for everyone. By working together, these organisations will be able to provide science-based insight which underpins decisions that benefit society as a whole."
Looking ahead to 2030, the NRO Group has set out an ambitious vision to become an indispensable strategic partner across the UK's research system. Its priorities include delivering measurable impact against Government priorities, aligning research with national needs, securing sustainable investment in research infrastructure and capability, fostering innovation and skills, and strengthening the UK's global scientific leadership.
Main Image – Lord Patrick Vallance launches the NRO event at the Royal Society of Sciences, London.
Images – UK Atomic Energy Authority
