Final evaluation of Sêr Cymru II

Overview

This report evaluates the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) funded Sêr Cymru II programme, which ran from December 2015 to June 2023.

The programme aimed to boost research capacity in STEMM fields within Welsh Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) by attracting world-class talent and supporting researchers at various career stages.

The evaluation focuses on the programme’s alignment with strategic goals, performance against targets, and its broader impacts.

The report includes recommendations for the structure of any successor programmes.

Main findings

• Wales continues to have a low share of UK research income and STEMM staff. While Sêr Cymru II supported subject areas in growing research income faster than comparator institutions, overall disparities remain. Future programmes should focus on areas with the greatest social and economic impact.
• The programme aligns with Welsh and UK government policies to increase RD&I investment outside London and the South East. Future iterations should strategically target internationally competitive areas and national priorities.
• Sêr Cymru II met or exceeded most business plan targets, including £78.8m in research income (target: £45m) and 179 new researchers (target: 102). Research Chairs and Fellows were particularly successful, though some awards faced eligibility and evidence challenges.
• Supported subject areas experienced faster growth in research income and publications.
• The programme fostered interdisciplinary research and improved publication quality.
• However, only 41% of researchers remained in Wales post-funding.
• Administrative demands limited strategic engagement and researcher support. Future programmes should streamline processes and enhance support for early career researchers.
• The programme contributed to equal opportunities, sustainability, and outreach, but had limited impact on poverty alleviation and Welsh language promotion.