The Research Council of Norway (RCN) is a Norwegian governmental body responsible for the development and coordination of all research activities in Norway. The council also allocates funds to researchers and institutions, and provides advice on national science policy.
The RCN was established in 1965, with the goal of promoting scientific research in Norway and ensuring that this research contributes to the country’s economic and social development. Today, the council is one of the largest public funding bodies for research in Europe, with an annual budget of over NOK 10 billion (approximately EUR 1.1 billion).
Norwegian research has made significant contributions to a number of fields, including medicine, engineering, and environmental science. In recent years, Norwegian researchers have been involved in groundbreaking work on topics such as cancer treatment, renewable energy sources, and climate change.
The RCN plays an important role in supporting these efforts by funding basic and applied research across all disciplines. In addition to financial support, the RCN provides advice and guidance on national science policy issues. The council is also responsible for promoting international cooperation within the scientific community.
The RCN is headed by a board of 15 members appointed by the Norwegian government. The board elects a president from among its members; currently Dag Rune Olsen holds this position.