Written evidence submitted by ICR Research (SDY0001)

1. The UK's Global Leadership in Science and Innovation and its Contribution to Soft Power

The UK continues to be recognised as a global leader in science and innovation, underpinned by its world-class universities, thriving research institutions, and vibrant technology sectors. Landmark achievements, such as the development of the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine and pioneering work in genomics, reinforce the UK's scientific standing internationally. This scientific excellence significantly enhances the UK's soft power by fostering international goodwill, building networks of influence, and showcasing British values of collaboration, innovation, and integrity.

Recent research by ICR for the British Council ("Soft Power at a Turning Point", 2024) indicates that countries' soft power rankings correlate more closely with GDP and democratic values than with traditional power metrics. The UK currently ranks second in global soft power indices according to the 2024 BrandFinance assessment, representing a strategic asset that requires sustained investment and policy coherence.

2. Impact of the Current Geopolitical Environment

The increasingly complex geopolitical environment has heightened the strategic importance of secure, trusted science collaborations. As noted in ICR Research's "Mapping Strategic ROI in UK Soft Power" (2025), countries are increasingly prioritising national interests over multilateralism, with a noticeable shift toward activities that further national policy and economic interests rather than addressing global challenges through multinational frameworks.

This evolving landscape presents both risks and opportunities. Major powers, particularly the US and China, are investing heavily in science and technology as engines of economic growth and strategic advantage, often with explicitly competitive framing. The protection of intellectual property and critical technologies is creating new tensions in international scientific collaboration, requiring more nuanced approaches to research partnerships. Additionally, countries are more actively seeking demonstrable economic returns on investment in international activities, particularly in higher education and creative sectors. While global challenges such as climate change and public health require collaborative solutions, many countries are reducing commitment to multilateral frameworks in favour of bilateral or limited multilateral arrangements.

These trends underscore the need for the UK to deepen alliances with like-minded nations while adopting a more strategic approach to partnerships that may present risks to intellectual property or national security. It also presents an opportunity for the UK to reinforce its role as a trusted science partner globally.

3. Science and Technology Innovation and National Security

Science and technology innovation directly contributes to national security through advancements in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, and biotechnology. These capabilities enhance defensive systems, protect critical infrastructure, and underpin economic resilience. The Integrated Review Refresh correctly identified the central importance of these technologies, but implementation requires further coordination across government departments.

Investment in emerging technologies directly supports the UK's ability to respond to and mitigate threats in an increasingly contested world. However, the full potential of this investment is only realised when scientific progress is effectively integrated with broader security and defence strategies.

4. Effectiveness of the UK Government's Strategy and DSIT's Role

The establishment of the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) represents a positive step, signalling high-level commitment to science and innovation. The Integrated Review Refresh and the UK Science and Technology Framework provide strong strategic direction, establishing a foundation for policy coherence.

However, comparative analysis with international approaches suggests the UK lacks the comprehensive coordination mechanisms for soft power and science diplomacy that exist in competitor countries. France's Cooperation and Cultural Action Network (SCAC), for example, brings together 12 operators including the Institut Français, Alliances Françaises, and AEFE to implement a coherent diplomatic strategy.

The effectiveness of DSIT will ultimately depend on its capacity to convene stakeholders and drive cross-government coordination; the alignment of funding commitments with strategic objectives; regulatory agility that enables innovation while protecting security interests; integration of science policy with the UK's broader international engagement strategy; and effectiveness in championing UK science internationally.

5. Need for an International Science Strategy

An International Science Strategy is essential to guide partnerships, safeguard research security, and maximise the global impact of UK science. Such a strategy should include clear prioritisation of strategic partnerships based on both scientific excellence and alignment with UK foreign policy objectives. It ought to establish mechanisms for research security that manage risk proportionately while maintaining openness and scientific freedom. Furthermore, the strategy would benefit from including capacity-building initiatives with developing nations, strategically aligned with UK development priorities, alongside science for diplomacy approaches that leverage research collaboration to build relationships in regions of strategic importance.

Drawing from ICR Research's methodology, the strategy should incorporate dual-horizon metrics for measuring impact, combining near-term indicators with assessment of long-term strategic benefits. This would address the challenging question of how to evaluate return on investment in science diplomacy activities.

The strategy should also address the concerning trend of reduced resources for soft power institutions in Western democracies at a time when competitors are potentially increasing investment. As noted in ICR Research's analysis, the UK's support from grant-in-aid to the British Council has decreased from 2023 to 2024 by approximately £12m, while there appear to be resource increases in some competitor countries.

6. Key International Scientific Relationships

The UK's key relationships include those with the United States, particularly in emerging technologies, defence research, and space science; the European Union, where despite Brexit, maintaining participation in Horizon Europe and other EU research programmes remains vital; Commonwealth nations, especially Canada, Australia, and India, leveraging shared values and historical ties; Japan and South Korea, as important partners in advanced manufacturing, robotics, and emerging technologies; and the Middle East, where growing partnerships in climate technology, renewable energy, and biomedical research offer significant promise.

Participation in multilateral organisations like CERN, the European Space Agency (ESA), and global research initiatives remains essential to UK scientific leadership and influence. These relationships should be cultivated strategically, with clear alignment to both scientific and foreign policy objectives.

7. Linking Scientific Progress with Global and National Security

The government has made important steps in recognising the link between science, technology, and security through initiatives like the Integrated Review and partnerships such as AUKUS. However, more can be done to fully leverage scientific progress for security purposes.

Enhanced investment in dual-use technologies with both civilian and defence applications would strengthen UK innovation capacity while addressing security needs. Better inter-agency coordination between DSIT, FCDO, MOD, and intelligence agencies would ensure that scientific advancements are properly integrated into national security planning. Regular horizon scanning and risk assessments would help identify emerging technology threats and opportunities, while focused skills development in critical technology areas would ensure sovereignty in key capabilities.

8. Role of the New Defence Innovation Unit

The new defence innovation unit should act as a catalyst for dual-use technologies with applications across defence and civilian sectors. It can drive rapid adoption of innovative technologies within defence systems by fostering collaboration between defence industry, academia, and the start-up ecosystem. Strengthening partnerships with allies in defence innovation, particularly through AUKUS and NATO, will enhance interoperability and burden-sharing. The unit can also provide a clear pathway for innovators to engage with defence requirements, reducing barriers to entry for non-traditional suppliers.

To succeed, the unit will need stable funding, talented personnel with diverse skills, and the authority to cut through traditional procurement barriers. Its effectiveness should be judged not only on technological achievements but also on its ability to create sustainable innovation ecosystems that benefit both defence and civilian sectors.

9. Impact of the Rebranded Science and Technology Network

The rebranded Science and Technology Network can significantly enhance the UK's global standing if it is well-resourced, with skilled science diplomats in key international locations. It should be strategically focused on priority countries and technology domains, while remaining embedded in broader diplomatic and security objectives. Effective coordination with other UK international networks, including the British Council, would maximise impact and avoid duplication.

The Network requires appropriate metrics to evaluate impact beyond traditional academic measures. Current global trends suggest an opportunity for the Network to play an expanded role in promoting UK scientific excellence while monitoring international developments in critical technology areas. Its success will depend on close alignment with the UK's overall international strategy and adequate resourcing to maintain presence in priority regions.

10. Thematic Areas for Prioritisation

Several thematic areas merit prioritisation based on both scientific potential and strategic importance. Artificial intelligence and machine learning, especially safety, ethics, and governance frameworks, represent a field where the UK has significant expertise and international credibility. Quantum technologies, particularly communications, sensing, and computing, offer transformative potential for both civilian and security applications. Space technologies, including satellite applications and space situational awareness, are increasingly important as space becomes more contested and commercialised.

Advanced materials and manufacturing techniques underpin innovation across multiple sectors, while climate technologies for mitigation, adaptation, and resilience address one of the defining global challenges of our time. Biosecurity and pandemic prevention capabilities, building on COVID-19 response experience, remain essential for future health security. Digital infrastructure and cybersecurity systems represent foundational technologies for a secure and prosperous digital economy.

These areas align with global scientific frontiers, offer economic growth potential, and address critical security challenges. Additionally, technologies that enhance societal resilience and support net-zero goals should feature prominently in UK prioritisation.

11. Science Diplomacy Impact Measurement

Science diplomacy impact can be measured through multiple dimensions. Formal agreements, including the number and quality of bilateral and multilateral science agreements, provide one indicator of diplomatic engagement. Research collaboration metrics such as joint publications, patents, and research co-funding levels demonstrate scientific cooperation. Talent mobility, including the exchange of researchers, students, and technical experts, builds long-term relationships and knowledge transfer.

Multilateral engagement through participation and leadership in international consortia demonstrates influence in global science governance. Science collaboration during global challenges, such as pandemics or natural disasters, demonstrates the value of scientific relationships during crises. Economic outcomes, including technology transfer, joint ventures, and market access, provide tangible benefits from science diplomacy. Enhanced perception of the UK as measured in global indices reflects the public diplomacy value of scientific cooperation.

Following ICR Research's recommendation, a "dual-horizon" approach to measurement is advisable, tracking both near-term indicators such as publications and funding, as well as long-term strategic benefits including diplomatic resilience and influence networks. This nuanced approach recognises that some of the most valuable impacts of science diplomacy may only materialise over years or decades.

12. UK ODA and S&T Innovation

UK Official Development Assistance (ODA) spending plays a crucial role in building science capacity in developing countries, addressing global challenges, and fostering sustainable development. The Newton Fund and Global Challenges Research Fund have demonstrated how scientific collaboration can advance development goals while creating lasting partnerships.

However, there is scope for more strategic alignment between ODA investments and broader UK foreign policy objectives. Clear mechanisms to track and report outcomes are needed to optimise impact and justify continued investment. The concerning trend of reduced ODA resources should be addressed, as comparative analysis suggests some competitor nations are increasing their development-focused activities.

Science and technology ODA can be particularly effective in building relationships with emerging powers and regions of strategic importance, while simultaneously addressing shared challenges such as climate change, antimicrobial resistance, and food security. These investments create enduring networks of influence that benefit the UK diplomatically, scientifically, and economically.

13. Assessing the Value of International Science Collaborations

The UK should assess the value of international science collaborations based on multiple criteria. Scientific excellence, reflected in the quality and impact of research outputs, remains a fundamental measure of successful collaboration. Economic returns, including commercial opportunities, inward investment, and export potential, provide tangible benefits to the UK economy. Access to global research talent and skills enhances UK innovation capacity and addresses skills gaps.

Alignment with UK foreign policy priorities and values ensures that scientific collaboration supports broader strategic objectives. Contribution to solving shared problems like climate change demonstrates the UK's commitment to global challenges while advancing scientific knowledge.

Participation in major international science infrastructures like CERN, the Square Kilometre Array, and vaccine development consortia brings substantial reputational and economic benefits that justify continued investment. These large-scale collaborations enable research that would be impossible for any single country to undertake alone and position the UK at the forefront of global science.

14. Benefits of Bilateral and Global Collaborations

Bilateral agreements and participation in global organisations offer substantial benefits by facilitating talent mobility and knowledge exchange. They enable sharing of research infrastructure costs for large-scale facilities that would be prohibitively expensive for any single country. UK innovation ecosystems are enhanced through access to cutting-edge research and diverse perspectives. Global markets for UK science-based companies and technologies become more accessible through international scientific relationships. Collaborations allow the UK to address challenges that transcend national boundaries, from climate change to pandemics.

Analysis from ICR Research indicates that while countries are becoming more selective in their international engagements, the fundamental value of research collaboration remains high, particularly with trusted partners sharing similar values. The UK should take a strategic approach to collaboration, focusing resources on partnerships that offer the greatest scientific, economic, and diplomatic value while maintaining openness to emerging opportunities.

15. Attracting Global R&D Investment

The UK can enhance its attractiveness for global R&D investment by offering competitive tax incentives for research and innovation activities. Maintaining high regulatory standards while ensuring agility to adapt to emerging technologies provides certainty for investors while enabling innovation. Ensuring access to talent through appropriate immigration policies for researchers addresses a primary concern for R&D-intensive companies.

Fostering vibrant innovation clusters around universities and research institutions creates ecosystems that attract both established companies and start-ups. Providing excellent infrastructure and quality of life helps attract international companies and their employees. The UK's strong tradition of intellectual property protection and rule of law represents an additional advantage in the global competition for R&D investment.

Recent trends suggest increased competition for R&D investment, with emerging economies enhancing their value propositions through targeted incentives and growing talent pools. The UK must remain vigilant and responsive to maintain its competitive position.

16. Retaining Leading Scientific Researchers

Key measures to retain leading scientific researchers include maintaining generous research funding through UKRI and other sources. Ensuring an open and welcoming immigration system for researchers and their families addresses both practical and psychological aspects of researcher retention. Offering competitive salaries and research autonomy in academic institutions recognises both the economic and professional needs of top scientists.

Creating a vibrant academic ecosystem that supports interdisciplinary research enables scientists to pursue cutting-edge questions that often lie at the boundaries between traditional disciplines. Facilitating commercialisation pathways for research with economic potential allows researchers to see their work make tangible impact. Addressing housing, healthcare, and education concerns that affect quality of life removes practical barriers to retention.

Global competition for scientific talent is intensifying, with countries like China, Singapore, and Gulf states offering substantial incentives to attract leading researchers. The UK must remain competitive in this environment by offering a compelling combination of research opportunities, career development, and quality of life.

Conclusion

The UK has formidable strengths in science and technology, but maintaining leadership requires strategic investment, international engagement, and robust integration of science policy with broader diplomatic and security strategies. The establishment of DSIT and the Soft Power Council represent positive steps, but continued attention to coordination, funding, and strategic alignment is essential.

In an increasingly contested world, the UK's scientific excellence represents both a competitive advantage and a platform for building the international partnerships essential for addressing shared challenges. By aligning its scientific assets with clear foreign policy priorities while maintaining commitment to core values, the UK can strengthen both its prosperity and security.

This submission draws on evidence from the relevant academic literature, comparative studies of international approaches to science diplomacy, and recent analyses by ICR Research into global soft power trends.

25 April 2025

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