An evidence-based approach to optimising Malta’s research funding systems

Abstract

This dissertation investigates the optimisation of Malta’s research funding systems, focusing on challenges and opportunities for enhancing the effectiveness of funding mechanisms. Malta, as a small EU member state, faces unique hurdles, including heavy reliance on EU funding, administrative burdens, and limited national research resources. Through qualitative in-depth interviews with key stakeholders, this research identifies critical barriers to research funding such as administrative inefficiencies, lack of stable funding, and insufficient collaboration between academia and industry. The study highlights how these factors limit researchers' capacity to pursue long-term, impactful projects and align research efforts with national priorities. The findings reveal that Malta’s over-dependence on EU grants forces local researchers to align with EU priorities, often at the expense of addressing Malta-specific needs. Additionally, the current funding landscape, characterised by short-term grants, disrupts project continuity and deters researchers from engaging in ambitious initiatives. The research emphasises the need for a centralised national research fund with more flexible, sustainable funding mechanisms to support long-term projects and encourage industry academia collaboration. The study also underscores the importance of reducing administrative burdens, particularly for early-career researchers and smaller institutions, by streamlining application processes and introducing tiered reporting requirements. Enhancing capacity-building initiatives, establishing dedicated support structures, and fostering stronger industry partnerships are recommended to drive innovation and economic growth. Overall, the research provides actionable recommendations for optimising Malta’s research funding system, suggesting that strategic policy changes, collaborative efforts, and investments in sustainable funding models can strengthen the nation’s research ecosystem. By addressing these challenges, Malta can better leverage its research potential to achieve socioeconomic growth, positioning itself as a competitive player in the EU research landscape.