rannsóknarfé

Rannsóknarfé, or research funding, refers to the money allocated to support research and development activities. It is used to cover costs associated with designing and conducting studies, including personnel salaries, equipment and materials, data collection, travel, and dissemination of results, as well as overhead and administrative costs.

Funding is typically distributed through competitive processes run by public authorities, universities, and foundations. Researchers submit proposals that outline aims, methods, work plan, and a detailed budget. Proposals are commonly reviewed by peers or assessment panels and evaluated against criteria such as scientific excellence, potential impact, feasibility, originality, and alignment with strategic priorities. Awards can be project-specific or programmatic, short- or long-term, and may include stipends for doctoral or postdoctoral researchers.

Funding agreements specify terms of use, reporting obligations, milestones, and audit requirements. They may impose restrictions on eligibility, nationality or institutional affiliation, and may require matching funds or co-financing. Proper management requires governance structures, financial controls, and transparent reporting to maintain accountability and integrity in the use of funds.

Rannsóknarfé is essential for supporting both basic and applied research, enabling universities, research institutes, and researchers to pursue new knowledge and innovation. In Iceland, major sources include national bodies such as Rannsóknamiðstöðin Íslands (RANNÍS), universities, government ministries, and foundations, with additional support from European and international funding schemes.