Breadcrumb links

Navigation

MRC Strategic Plan 2009-2014

Research to people - Strategic Aim Two - Bringing the benefits of excellent research to all sections of society IMAGE: Extracted DNA. Close-up of DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) in its purified form. © Patrick Landmann/Science Photo Library

The MRC will work with researchers in both public and private sectors, regulators, and the breadth of stakeholder communities to ensure that research of the highest quality is translated into tangible benefits for society as a whole.

OBJECTIVES:

Translation of research: To bring the health impacts of fundamental research to people more quickly.

Regulation, ethics, governance and working with decision-makers: To uphold and guide ethical research practice and the highest standards of research governance; to enhance the regulatory process by providing innovative approaches.

Communication: To enhance communication with scientists, the public, policy-makers and partners.

Achieving our strategic aims and objectives

A VISIONARY PAST;
A PIONEERING FUTURE
Sixty years ago, smoking was generally regarded as innocuous. Now it is recognised as the main cause of lung cancer, the world’s most common fatal cancer. Pioneering MRC researchers helped establish a link between smoking and cancer 50 years ago. Over several decades, they identified the full hazards of smoking and the benefits of stopping, which has influenced public policy and behaviour. This has prevented millions of untimely deaths and culminated in government bans on smoking in enclosed places that will save the country billions of pounds.