Norwegian research priorities in 2014

Active and healthy for many years

In 15 years Norway will have twice as many people over age 70 as it does today. More research is needed on diseases that strike the elderly in particular and on anticipated changes in care needs. Innovation and new welfare technology must be applied to improve the quality and efficiency of health, care and welfare services. Knowledge about the factors that lead to higher labour force participation is critical for ensuring a welfare society that is economically sustainable.

The Research Council is recommending an increase of NOK 75 million for the initiative Active and healthy for many years.

Renewable energy and petroleum

Resources as well as technological expertise have made Norway a leading energy nation. To generate more renewable energy and achieve more efficient, sustainable oil and gas recovery, the specialised Norwegian resource groups in this area must be further expanded. Access to the right knowledge and expertise will create greater opportunities for Norwegian trade and industry and enhance its competitiveness.

The Research Council is recommending an increase of NOK 55 million for the initiative Renewable energy and petroleum.

Norwegian bioresources from land and sea

Effective management and utilisation of fisheries, aquaculture and agriculture resources are dependent on sound research. Expertise on biological production adapted to Norwegian conditions is needed to promote a biobased industrial sector that provides safe, healthy food for Norway and the world market alike. New knowledge will enable Norway to utilise its marine resources even more effectively and boost value creation in its seafood industries.

The Research Council is recommending an increase of NOK 40 million for the initiative Norwegian bioresources from land and sea.

Climate change and climate adaptation

Climate research provides the insight needed to prepare trade and industry and society in the best possible manner for a climate-neutral future. Climate researchers can develop better prognoses for temperature, precipitation and flooding, and describe the changes to society and the needs for adaptation that are necessary in the long term. Good warning systems are essential for ensuring that society can prepare agriculture, buildings, roads and power grids to deal effectively with climate change.

The Research Council is recommending an increase of NOK 50 million for the initiative Climate change and climate adaptation.

EU cooperation: Horizon 2020

In 2014 the EU will expand its research investment. The areas of focus – such as climate, energy, bioresources, the elderly and innovation – are of strategic importance to Norway as well. Under the new framework programme, Horizon 2020, the participation fees paid by Norway to the EU will rise significantly. Norway must strengthen its participation in order to take better advantage of these opportunities. The Research Council will therefore take steps to encourage Norwegian research groups to increase their involvement in EU research cooperation.

The Research Council is recommending an increase of NOK 68 million to increase participation of Norwegian researchers in Horizon 2020.

More research-oriented and innovative trade and industry

Companies can apply research and innovation to reach new markets and compete successfully in the global marketplace. A stronger initiative targeting companies with great potential for research and innovation is called for. Funding from the Research Council, along with the companies’ own investments, will also build expertise and enhance cooperation with research groups in Norway and abroad. Moreover, an innovative industrial sector will make a good partner for an innovative public sector.

The Research Council is recommending an increase of NOK 80 million for the initiative More research-oriented and innovative trade and industry.

Talented young researchers

Norway loses out on the best ideas and educational institutions fall behind when many of the greatest talents choose not to pursue research as a career. There are difficulties associated with the transition period between a research fellowship and a permanent position in the research sector. Particularly gifted researchers from all subject areas must be offered attractive framework conditions at this critical stage in their research careers. This is how world-class educational and research institutions are built.

The Research Council is recommending an increase of NOK 50 million for the initiative Talented young researchers.

Joint European research infrastructure

European countries are cooperating on building a number of large-scale infrastructure facilities – also on Norwegian soil. Investments in 2014 will enable Norwegian researchers to use world-class scientific equipment further down the line. Access to modern laboratories and equipment is essential to promoting the pioneering research needed to address crucial social challenges and stimulate value creation.

The Research Council is recommending an increase of NOK 50 million for the initiative Joint European research infrastructure.