The structure and basis of operation of Estonia’s research and development (R&D) system are established in the Research and Development Organisation Act (RDOA)1. The Government of the Republic prepares national R&D development plans, submits them to the Riigikogu (parliament), approves national R&D programmes, ensures the cooperation between the ministries and enacts legislation. The Research and Development Council advises the Government of the Republic on matters related to R&D2. The Ministry of Education and Research (MER)3 implements national research policy, organizes the financing and evaluation of the activities of R&D institutions and coordinates international research cooperation at the national level. The MER is also responsible for the planning, coordination, execution and monitoring of research policy related to the activities of universities and research institutes.