Over-Emnhasis On Research Work In Universities Today

Wanganui Chronicle, 21 August 1950, Page 8

Over-Emnhasis On Research Work In Universities Today

WELLINGTON, Last Night (PA)— “We must learn to use the discoveries of scientists. However, I think their work, which is only one branch of university activity, is over-emphasised today.” Sir Raymond Priestley, vicechancellor of the University of Birmingham and leader of members of the executive council of the Association of Universities of the British Commonwealth visiting New Zealand, expressed this view in an interview today. . , Sir Raymond said that Birmingham University was recently granted £25,000 for nuclear research, and added: “This is out of proportion. It is only a branch of the university.” He considered that fundamental research was the task of the universities and that the development of fundamental discoveries was the work of individual firms, trade associations or depart mental laboratories. "Universities in Britain, deprived by the changing social structure oi large personal bequests, find the balance mor e than restored by research grants by large firms.. These are accepted only on condition that all the work conducted may be published.” said Sir Raymond. “A further source of university revenue may be imminent with the establishment of a National Research Foundation to safeguard research in the universities. One result o£ this may be that royalties from discoveries may accrue to the discoverer 'and the university,” he said. The delegation was given a Government reception in Wellington today.