László Palkovics has said the reorganization of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences (MTA) will boost the freedom and independence of scientific research.
Lawmakers voted on Tuesday to relocate MTA research institutes to the Eötvös Lorand Research Network (ELKH), a new body with its own, independent budget chapter.
During an interview with Magyar Hirlap, the Innovation and Technology Minister said the research network will operate more effectively in the new framework. He said state funding for research should “show a tangible return on investment” for the Hungarian economy and society, adding that taxpayer money should serve the interests of the community.
Palkovics said the 2020 budget will allocate 32 billion HUF (EUR 99.1m) more for R+D+I. He added that the new framework will create the conditions for unified, performance-based funding. The funds MTA had received to operate the research network will not be nationalized but will have to be integrated into the new system.
The Minister revealed that ELKH will be managed by a board of 12 people, with the government and the MTA each delegating six members. A National Council of Academic Policy will also be set up with members representing both academia and economic players to determine R+D+I strategy in Hungary.