This report responds to the request by FCCSET that the Working Group examine the effects 

 of these changes on the relationship between the Federal government and the RIUs. The report 

 reviews the basis of the Federal relationship with the research-intensive universities in the current 

 context, affirms the principles that will ensure that it will continue to flourish in the future to the 

 mutual benefit of both parties, and makes recommendations in areas where the Federal govern- 

 ment has a specific interest or role. In so doing, the Working Group notes that some respon- 

 sibilities for the health of the relationship are shared, and some are beyond the Federal purview. 



The Working Group affirms the vital and continuing importance of the Federal-RIU 

 relationship for the Nation. In addressing the challenges posed by new demands, limited 

 resources, and changes in the geopolitical and research environments, the activities of the 

 Federal agencies with respect to the research-intensive universities should be guided by the fol- 

 io wing principles: 



1. Federal policies and requirements should contribute to the health of universities and 

 their operations and to the strength of the research infrastructure. 



2. Federal policies should serve to maximize the benefits resulting from the Nation's in- 

 vestment in universities and provide increasing dividends in the form of improved 

 quality of life and economic growth. 



3. Federal policies and investments in university research and education should en- 

 courage the full utilization of the rich and varied demographic base of the Nation, the 

 maintenance of a highly educated pool of scientists and engineers, and the develop- 

 ment of a scientifically literate citizenry. 



4. In implementing its policies and regulations with respect to public funding to univer- 

 sities, the Federal government should seek accountability and simplicity, maintain in- 

 teragency uniformity and compatibility, and reduce duplication. 



RECOMMENDA TION 



• The WGRIU recommends that FCCSET establish a standing subcommittee to serve as a 

 forum for continued discussion of issues related to RIUs, to provide continuing oversight 

 for the process of implementing the recommendations of this report, to provide oversight 

 for implementation of other Federal/university initiatives and recommendations, and to 

 serve as a resource for other FCCSET committees. 



