Towards a Unified Policy and Evidence Capacity for the UK Research and Innovation System

Amid rapid technological change, geopolitical uncertainty and fiscal pressure, the UK faces an increasing imperative to modernise research and innovation governance through stronger and more integrated evidence. This report draws on comparative insights from eight OECD countries to examine how analytical capacity is organised, funded and used to support research and innovation policy and translate data into strategic action. While the UK benefits from world-class research institutions and well-established evaluation frameworks, gaps remain in system-level analysis and the effective integration of evidence into policy delivery.

The report argues that these gaps can be addressed by more systematically transforming evidence into policy learning – strengthening links between researchers and policymakers, developing a coherent annual narrative of progress, and establishing clear, mission-aligned metrics for better monitoring and evaluation. It sets out practical recommendations to strengthen analytical capability, improve transparency and accountability, and better align research and innovation policy with national missions. Strengthening evidence-based governance will be central to translating research excellence into societal and economic impact and enabling the UK to navigate rapid technological change with agility and strategic direction.

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