Top Dutch scientist slams research investment

Robbert Dijkgraaf says the quality of learning in the Netherlands will suffer unless research and development funding is rapidly increased. He took over as new president of the Royal Dutch Academy of Arts and Sciences on Monday. Professor Dijkgraaf believes Dutch scholars are still highly thought of, but that their kudos is largely the result of past funding.

He complains that government and business investment in Dutch research and development is among the lowest in Europe. He fears that the country’s competitive power and its ability to produce innovation will be damaged unless more money is pumped into scientific research.

Source: Radio Netherlands, 19 May 2008