Innovation researcher Janger: more competition for research funding important, but no universal remedy

However, competitive research funding is not a panacea – rather a package of measures is needed: competitively allocated research funds "are enormously important for increasing scientific productivity in the EU, but alone they cannot ensure the convergence of weaker research systems, for example in Eastern Europe," says Janger. "This will require specific instruments, such as structural reforms of the research institutions in these countries”.

In order to close the gap between Austria and leading research countries, improvements are needed in the area of research careers, such as the introduction of tenure-track models throughout the country and flatter hierarchies at universities. According to Janger, a hierarchical chair principle with a professor at the top and assistants under it is unattractive for young researchers: "They want to be independent and implement their own research agendas."

To the "Research" article "Europe must focus on careers to close research divide"