Main characteristics to classify CRC programmes

Many of the characteristics that define a CRC can be derived from the underlying CRC programme goals.

The characteristics of the CRC differ from programme to programme mainly due to the objectives of the programme and are also dependent on historical, regional, political, geographical and other reasons. In Agencies supporting a range of CRC-models even opposed values of a parameter may be found.

 Main Characteristics that may help to categorize CRC programmes are:

• Physical Centre vs. Network or Virtual Centre
• Type of Organisation:
  • Legal entity vs. Centre within a host Institution (e.g. University)
• Regional vs. National vs. International Focus
• Industry led vs. Academia led
• Thematically open vs. thematic focus
• Participation of companies:
  • Active Participation (In-Kind Contribution) vs. Cash Contribution
• Funding profile (Share of public funding)
• Duration of funding (strict time limit or possible extension, interim evaluations, life after funding)
• Typical annual budget

The mentioned features result in a mix that ultimately distinguishes CRC programmes from each other. Each CRC programme has its own set of characteristics.

Nevertheless, the combination of certain features may help to categorize:

For example, a connection between thematically open centres and the active participation of companies to a relevant extent in combination with Industry led centres could be seen. These CRC Programmes tend to focus on physical centres with its own legal entity. Most CRC programmes have a strong national focus with international participation.

Type of research activities within the Centres:

Most of the CRC Programmes see their field of activity in the use-inspired (needs-driven) basic research, often referred to as “Pasteur’s Quadrant”. Although this distinction is not always clear as some CRC programmes also see their activity in industrial research with innovation focus. This gives an impression of the goals and purpose of the funded centres.