Research & Development (R & D)

• Research involves original investigation in order to increase knowledge and understanding. e.g. understanding how specific diseases arise.
• Development refers to the use of ideas and existing knowledge to produce new products and processes.
• In some cases the research and development is not done ‘in house’ by a company or organisation but contracted out – contract research.
• Many companies require access to research and development support in order to develop their products and maintain a competitive market position. Some companies cannot justify development of internal research and development capabilities and expertise. Therefore access to third party suppliers of research and development support e.g. academic labs is an excellent solution.
• The outcome from the research contract could result in improved knowledge about a specific aspect of the business or an improved product, process or service or indeed allow the company to expand into new markets with an existing product.
• Contract Research can be part funded in a number of ways. Further information is available at Funding Solutions.
• Consideration of legal issues must also be taken. Further information on this is available at Legal Terms Explained.
• Interface offers an easy reference point of HEI and Research Institute specialisations and research capabilities with accurate, up to date information. We can help you to identify which groups of academic researchers have expertise in the area you require.
• For example, an engineering company who are wishing to develop a new programme for their production line could contract academic expertise from a computing department to help set up a database or wireless technology.
• The expertise within Scottish Universities and Research Institutes can be accessed by companies via a research contract.

If you want to find out more about research & development, please call 0131 651 4791. Alternatively, please complete our feedback form.