MSHE/MNiSW

Partner 17: Poland - Ministry of Science and Higher Education (MSHE/MNiSW)

Replaced by Partner 19, NCBiR, on 1st March 2008

The Ministry of Science and Higher Education  is a governmental body whereas the Minister is the supreme authority on state policy in the area of science and technology. It is the central governmental source of funds for research. The Minister of Science and Higher Education is assisted and advised by the Council of Science that is divided into three main branches: Scientific Policy Committee, Commission of Research for Development of Science, Commission of Research for Development of Economy. Decisions on financing research projects (basic, applied and industrial) are made by the Minister, taking into consideration the opinion of the Commissions, consisted of working units, specialised units and interdisciplinary units.

ERA-NET activities are coordinated by the Department of International Cooperation and European Integration of MSHE and the responsibility for steering committees belongs to the Ministry.

Main tasks of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education in the field of science are to:

• present to the government and the parliament guidelines for the country’s scientific policy,
• submit to the government plans for budgetary expenditure in the area of research in science and technology,
• elaborate country’s framework programmes and multiannual research agenda,
• fund and control institutions and research teams,
• sign international agreements on co-operation in the field of science and technology.

MSHE finances research and development from funds earmarked for that purpose in the budget and in accordance with specific budgetary categories. At present, the following financing schemes are available:

• statutory tasks of research centres,
• target-oriented research projects for industrial purposes,
• commissioned projects managed by consortia,
• research grants for individual researchers and research teams through open calls twice a year,
• construction, investments, purchase of equipment and infrastructure (earmarked subsidies),
• international scientific cooperation,
• research-aiding activity (publications, libraries, databases, scientific conferences, promotion of science).

Role:

• Co-leader of Work Package 5