The need for stability...in an unpredictable world
On research funding cycles and uncertainties.
Dear fellow progress enthusiast,
Another day, another great opportunity to delve into the dynamic realm of scientific research funding.
This time, we shed light on a significant challenge faced by researchers worldwide: funding cycles and uncertainties.
The availability of research funding is subject to the ebb and flow of cycles, often influenced by budget fluctuations and shifts in government priorities.
So what are some other consequences? Well, researchers find themselves navigating through shifting landscapes, where funding prospects can change unexpectedly.
This can disrupt the continuity and progress of ongoing research, impacting scientific advancements and delaying potential breakthroughs. It also creates an environment of uncertainty, making it challenging for researchers to plan and execute long-term projects effectively.
The unpredictable nature of funding cycles poses unique challenges for scientists embarking on ambitious, multi-year projects. It becomes difficult to ensure the stability and sustainability of research efforts, hindering the exploration of complex scientific questions and innovative solutions.
As advocates for scientific progress, it is crucial for us to recognise the significance of stable and sustained funding. So what can be done?
Diversifying funding sources is one of the main starting points. The more places you can look for funding, over different time points, the more you are likely to find continuous financial support. This goes hand in hand with increasing funding overall.
Seeking collaborations is something more and more research teams are currently doing. This opens the door to seek funding from several sources as well as creating useful knowledge exchange, larger data sets and combined expertise.
Exploring alternative ways to find financial support. With the advent of web3 and blockchain solutions, new funding systems are being developed creating entirely new avenues of funding. Through decentralisation of science we can work on deconstructing bias and exclusivity within research funding and create better prerequisites for the scientific process.
Researchers world-wide deserve working conditions that support their well-being. When we remove lack of resources and administrative barriers, we create a space for scientific solutions to thrive and true progress to happen.
Stay tuned for future editions of Change in sight, where we will delve further into the challenges and trends shaping the world of scientific research funding.
Wishing you a wonderful weekend,
The Change In Sight Team