Scientific output and collaboration of European research public organisations

This report is part of a broader study aimed at characterising the scientific performance - including impact and collaboration patterns - of countries, regions, and research performers (such as universities, public research institutes, and companies) with an emphasis on the European Research Area (ERA). The analyses presented in the report rely on a series of indicators designed to take into account national and sector specificities. These indicators also allow for a comprehensive analysis of the evolution, interconnectivity, performance, and impact of national research and innovation systems in Europe. In measuring progress towards past and current objectives, this information aims to support the coherent development of research policies for the ERA. The current report examines the scientific performance and collaboration profile of the most publishing Research Performing Organisations (i.e., top 150 RPOs in 2007−2011) within the ERA across 22 fields representing somewhat traditional scientific disciplines, as well as across 17 thematic priorities funded under the Seventh Framework Programme for Research and Technological Development (FP7). RPOs are not-for-profit organisations performing research. Generally, they do not have direct association to universities. Three categories of RPOs are distinguished based on their size, multidisciplinarity and geographic dispersion: Level 1 RPOs are multidisciplinary in scope and often comprise several small to medium research institutions and centres across a country; Level 2 RPOs perform research in a specific scientific domain. Smaller than the level 1 RPOs, they may also have small centres and/or institutions across the country. For example, hospitals and affiliated centres without affiliation to universities fall in this category; and Level 3 RPOs conduct research internationally or across the ERA.