OBJECTIVES

One of the most innovative features of the remit of UKTRC is the opportunity it provides to carry out policy-related analysis directly for DfT, using a form of call-off contract designed for use by academics, which draws on and feeds the long-term research programme. This is an interactive process, and the relationship with the Department is something that is more than a conventional contractor/client relationship.

UKTRC is taking a pro-active role in understanding policy concerns, generating research ideas, interacting with officials and building a partnership, thereby closing the gap between Research Council grants and DfT contracts. This component of UKTRC’s work is being led by Professor Peter Mackie at ITS Leeds, as the Short-term Analysis Director.

RANGE OF ACTIVITIES

The various types of activity envisaged for this component of UKTRC work include:

1. Substantial analysis projects with a policy nature and focus

2. Smaller research inquiries

3. Contributions to DfT policy formulation via short think pieces, membership of groups such as the Eddington 'friends' and the provision of/chairing of seminars

Projects of this nature and scale involve less multi-partner collaboration than the long-term research projects, and involve bilateral partnerships and links with dedicated experts. This includes a wide range of University researchers and the involvement of international experts through the Advisory Council where required.

An important task for UKTRC is to foster and develop the links between the long-term research programme and this policy related analysis. These occur at a thematic or methodological level, and involve the development, modification or application of data for related purposes, thus extracting better value for money from the resources.