Research Infrastructures

Evaluation of research infrastructures for inclusion in a national roadmap

Aside from researchers and institutions, an efficient scientific system also needs large research infrastructures. In many cases, science depends on the employment of large research infrastructures to deal with complex scientific subjects and engage in top-level research at international standards. Research infrastructures have become indispensable in all disciplines of research and teaching and in the fostering of new generations of academics.

In the last few years, the investment and operating costs associated with research infrastructures have risen considerably while public sector budgets are contracting. In the context of research and finance policy, decisions regarding investment in large research infrastructures as well as their operation and utilisation are therefore gaining importance at the national and European research level.

Given this background, in July 2011, the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research requested the German Council of Science and Humanities to develop a process for the science-driven evaluation of large research infrastructures within the framework of a pilot process.