Policy briefings

Policy briefings

We use a robust evidence base to inform sound political decision-making so UK and devolved governments can leverage the full capabilities of research-intensive universities.

Education

Higher education funding

Updated modelling demonstrates the combined impact of funding deficits and growing costs across teaching and research

International
Research

Seizing opportunities in Horizon Europe

Russell Group universities are driving up participation in the world’s largest R&D programme to make association a success for the UK and the EU

The flag of the European Union hangs beneath a stone archway
International
Research

The value of the UK’s international research partnerships

Including new analysis from Jisc conducted for the Russell Group, this briefing explains why UK universities engage in international research partnerships and the value they bring to economic growth

A group of colleagues work together around a meeting table with laptops and coffees
Research

Drivers of low cost-recovery on research grants

The gap between funding and cost is growing, putting at risk the long-term sustainability and global competitiveness of the UK’s research base

Botany researchers look at plants in a large greenhouse
Research

Sustainability of university R&D

Ground-breaking research, and the valuable economic contribution it makes to the UK, is at risk from mounting financial pressures

Nottingham Engineering Lab
Access & participation

Building opportunity for all

Tackling educational inequality and improving life chances for learners across the UK

A group of students on campus
International

International students driving economic growth

International students and graduates are helping drive economic growth across the UK.

Smiling group of students
Education

Local partnerships to deliver skills

Russell Group universities are collaborating with local partners to deliver the high-level skills needed to support growth and productivity across the UK

A group of students on campus chatting and laughing
Research

Optimising UK R&D funding: lessons from global competitors

By learning from other leading research nations, we can maximise the value and effectiveness of the UK’s world-leading R&D base — crucial to driving growth, improving public services and raising living standards…

Researchers stand in front of large wall-to-wall digital screens displaying cloud patterns on global maps
Innovation

Uplifting HEIF funding to drive regional productivity and growth

The Higher Education Innovation Fund (HEIF) is a vital driver of economic growth and regional development delivering on key government objectives

Engineers working with a robotic arm
Education

Educating our future NHS workforce

Universities are ready to work with government to refresh the long-term workforce plan and expand training further.

Crop unrecognizable doctor with stethoscope
Research

The impact of QR funding

Quality-related Research (QR) funding plays an essential and unique role in achieving breakthrough research

A female student soldering in an electronics class