This report argues that Western universities need to brace for a geopolitical shock that could dislocate global research networks and dramatically narrow the range of potential collaborative partners.

This study suggests that on its current trajectory, China is set to overtake the United States to become the world’s biggest spender on research and development, and the UK’s most significant research partner - raising pressing questions for policymakers at a time of rising geopolitical tensions.

Creating public value requires entrepreneurial imagination, empirical rigor, political skill and strategic action. This concept note offers an overview of the process, conceptual frameworks and vocabulary that thousands of public leaders have relied on to advance this work.