Underfunded scientists sell expertise abroad

Article Abstract:

Many scientists in the UK are finding that the government is not providing sufficient funding to allow them to continue their research. Some are responding by seeking funding abroad. They point out that the Engineering and Physical Science Research Council seems not to have realized that this development means that the intellectual property of anything invented and patented by UK scientists would go abroad. There are mixed views about whether John Battle, the industry minister with responsibility for science and technology, will really be able to achieve increased funding for research.

Research Grants-Science, United Kingdom, Science and technology policy, Science, Research funding

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The strange case of the rats, the 'cover-up' and a political hot potato

Article Abstract:

There has been renewed controversy about work undertaken by Dr Arpad Pusztai at the Rowett Institute in Aberdeen, Scotland, about the impact of genetically modified potatoes on rats. Pusztai was forced to resign after he leaked results of his research, which indicated that potatoes containing lectins damage the immune systems of rats, before the work had been properly assessed and reviewed. More than 20 scientists have now signed a letter claiming that his work was misrepresented, but it is uncertain why they have spoken out at this particular time.

Science & research, Plant Genetics, Scotland, Health aspects, Genetically modified plants

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If it ain't broke, sell it

Article Abstract:

The Babraham Institute in Cambridge, England, which is 50% funded by the UK government, has gained a very strong reputation for its work, especially in the area of cell signalling. Like other public-sector research establishments, it has been subject to scrutiny under the 'Prior Options' scheme to assess whether its work is required. It is possible that the government may decide to privatise this institution, and the uncertainty about its future is hampering the valuable work which it is undertaking.

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