The RDC discussed the proposals of the Estonian Research Council (ERC) regarding the organisation of research and development (R&D) activities within ministries so that field-specific research is guided more by Estonia’s long-term development goals and ministries implement standardised quality criteria when commissioning scientific studies. Among the things the ERC is willing to offer ministries is the organisation of application rounds for R&D activities within the Estonian Research Information System, assessment of the quality of applications and the results of research and the identification of research groups with the competence required by the ministries. The RDC supported the ERC’s proposal to undertake a pilot round with interested ministries this autumn. The key objectives of the field-specific R&D activities commissioned by ministries are to support cohesion between Estonian research and Estonian society, to place more emphasis on a scientific basis in the making of state governance decisions and to contribute to the implementation of the state’s main strategies, in particular Estonia 2035.
Also discussed during the session were matters pertaining to the funding of the Teaming centres of excellence (COE). Teaming is an EU funding measure which promotes the development of breakthrough knowledge transfer capabilities in new Member States. EU support for a single COE represents a major shot in the arm for any state’s research funding, to a value of up to 15 million euros. The same amount must also be invested by the Member State, which is why decisions must be made as to where the state’s contribution will be invested. There are currently three Teaming COEs in Estonia. The RDC discussed the creation of a list of priorities from Estonia’s point of view and how to ensure that as many Teaming applications as possible are approved whilst guaranteeing funding for other R&D groups. It was decided that the state’s own financing would be invested in Teaming projects contributing to the fulfilment of the development goals of Estonia 2035. The Teaming co-financing priorities will be confirmed by the government in due course following consultation with the RDC.
The RDC was also given an overview of progress in the development of Estonia’s innovation narrative, which aims to expedite R&D activities and growth in innovation-intensive entrepreneurship.
The RDC advises the government on strategy matters pertaining to R&D and guides the development of the national R&D and innovation system.
