At the Nuclear Institute, we share the concerns expressed by the Science Council about recent cuts to science research and development funding.
We recognise the inevitable funding pressures facing Government, but we fear that what appear to be short-term savings could have unforeseen longer-term consequences which are damaging to many important UK national missions.
The Government’s Nuclear Skills Plan is committed to increasing the number of specialist science and nuclear fission PhDs, in order to generate sufficient subject-matter experts to meet the sector's growing needs.
In the nuclear sector, we rely heavily on a vibrant and robust research landscape to provide both scientific innovations and highly-skilled, talented individuals to our industry.
A steady supply of both is vital if we are to meet the UK's nuclear ambitions, including those related to energy security, emissions reduction, nuclear remediation, defence, space and public health.
We stand ready to support the Science Council and our other licensing bodies to engage with UKRI and the Government to support a strong, sustainable and globally competitive UK science system.