UK’s world-class research organisations launch new collective

The National Research Organisations (NRO) Group officially launched on Thursday 9 July 2026 at the Royal Academy of Sciences in London. A first-of-its-kind collective for the UK, the NRO brings together more than 100 leaders from Government, research, academia, industry and funding organisations, marking a new chapter for the UK’s research landscape.

The event will formally introduce the NRO Group as the collective voice of more than 40 of the UK’s national science and research organisations, including BGS. Together, these organisations represent a unique national research capability dedicated to advancing science that benefits people, communities, the economy, the environment and national resilience.

The launch was attended by Science Minister Lord Patrick Vallance and the Government Chief Scientific Adviser Prof Dame Angela McLean, alongside directors of NRO member organisations and senior representatives from across the UK’s research and innovation ecosystem.

The NRO Group was established in response to growing recognition that the UK research landscape would benefit from stronger strategic alignment, clearer governance and greater visibility of the capabilities provided by national research organisations. Bringing together these organisations under a single alliance has never been more important, providing a coherent and authoritative voice on science, research policy and long-term investment.

The launch event highlighted how the NRO Group will work alongside the Government, UKRI, academia and industry to support national priorities, strengthen research excellence and help deliver economic growth through science and innovation.

The launch of the National Research Organisations Group marks an important step in harnessing science advice and expert knowledge to shape better policy for everyone. By working together, these organisations will be able to provide science-based insight that underpins decisions that benefit society as a whole.

Prof Dame Angela McLean, Government Chief Scientific Adviser. 

BGS has a long history of working closely with fellow research institutes and organisations and we are delighted to be part of the National Research Organisations Group. Geoscience has a crucial role to play in addressing societal challenges and enabling economic growth, and we look forward to continuing our work as part of this initiative, delivering geoscience for benefit of society.

Dr Karen Hanghøj, BGS Director.

As the UK’s national geological survey, our purpose is to deliver impact for the UK. We are proud to be part of the NRO Group, maximising the benefits of our combined expertise and providing a shared voice for UK research organisations.

Dr Corinna Abesser, director of BGS Policy.

Looking ahead to 2030, the NRO Group has set out an ambitious vision to become an indispensable strategic partner across the UK’s research system. Its priorities include:

• delivering measurable impact against Government priorities
• aligning research with national needs
• securing sustainable investment in research infrastructure and capability
• fostering innovation and skills
• strengthening the UK’s global scientific leadership