Intersectoral researcher mobility ‘vital’ to boost economy

Intersectoral mobility means researchers building careers that cross academia, industry, government and other sectors of the economy, and could include researchers changing roles from one research position to another in a different sector or undertaking secondments.

The connections formed between organisations in the research and innovation system when staff are mobile allow for more efficient and effective translation of research into real world impacts, according to the report, which was published to mark a year since the launch of the Researcher Mobility Taskforce set up to explore the issue.

An analysis published in the report found that mobility could correspond with outcomes including innovation, growth, productivity and skills development.

The report outlines four key priorities for further action, including enhancing public mobility initiatives, embedding mobility within the Research Excellence Framework, and scaling up best practices for organisations across sectors. 

Rosalind Gill, head of policy and engagement at NCUB, said: “Intersectoral career mobility isn’t just about moving researchers between academia and industry – it’s about creating a vibrant and responsive research ecosystem. We’ve made encouraging progress over the past year, but it’s clear that more needs to be done to remove barriers and foster a culture where researchers can move fluidly between sectors. By facilitating these transitions, we can unlock new innovations, drive productivity, and ultimately boost the UK economy.”

Gill added: “Today’s new report shows that greater intersectoral mobility benefits both researchers and businesses, creating a mutually beneficial exchange of skills and ideas. We are calling on universities, businesses, and policymakers to work together to build the structures and mechanisms that support these opportunities. Only then will we ensure that the UK remains at the forefront of global research and innovation.”