Optimal circulation, access to and transfer of scientific knowledge

To guarantee access to and uptake of knowledge by all.

Research and innovation benefit from scientists, research institutions, businesses and citizens accessing, sharing and using existing scientific knowledge and the possibility to express timely expectations or concerns on such activities. A major challenge is to broadly implement Open Access - i.e. free internet access to and use of publicly-funded scientific publications and data - given the uneven state of advancement of Member State policies in this area. More generally, to increase the economic impact of research, we need to foster Open Innovation, links between research, business and education (the knowledge triangle) as via EIT and in particular knowledge transfer between public research institutions and the private sector while respecting intellectual property rights. As most knowledge creation and transfer uses digital means, all barriers preventing seamless online access to digital research services for collaboration, computing and accessing scientific information (e-Science) and to einfrastructures must also be removed by promoting a digital ERA. The different types of knowledge transfer, circulation and access should also be judiciously factored into research cooperation with non-EU countries.

Member States are invited to:

• Define and coordinate their policies on access to and preservation of scientific information

• Ensure that public research contributes to Open Innovation and foster knowledge transfer between public and private sectors through national knowledge transfer strategies

• Harmonise access and usage policies for research and education-related public einfrastructures and for associated digital research services enabling consortia of different types of public and private partners

• Adopt and implement national strategies for electronic identity for researchers giving them transnational access to digital research services

Research stakeholder organisations are invited to:

• Adopt and implement open access measures for publications and data resulting from publicly funded research

• Implement and promote the uptake of electronic identity and digital research services

• Ensure optimal interaction and linkages and strategic partnering between academia and industry and define joint collaborative research agendas to maximize the use of research results

• Improve recognition and professionalization of knowledge transfer activities and strengthen the role of knowledge transfer offices

The Commission will:

• Establish open access to scientific publications as a general principle for all EU funded projects in Horizon 2020. For research data, develop a flexible approach that takes into account different scientific areas and business-related interests

• Continue to fund projects related to open access

• Adopt a Communication and Recommendation to Member States on access to and preservation of scientific information in the digital age

• Propose a roadmap for e-infrastructure development to support e-Science through open access to research tools and resources

• Support activities to raise stakeholder awareness of open access and e-Science

• Develop through assessment of existing initiatives a comprehensive policy approach to Open innovation and knowledge transfer, and consult stakeholders on it.

• Work with stakeholders to develop a set of model consortium agreements to enhance knowledge transfer

• Facilitate a Member State forum for regular exchange and reporting on national developments on the provision, take-up and use of digital research services