Delegation of research governance to networks: research councils as multiple goal boundary organizations

The delegation of research governance to networks is increasingly seen as a potential way to resolve the paradox in research fundingi, because it would reduce the direct influence of the state on funding policies, respect the independence of scientific institutions, foster `vigorous¿ scientific institutions, and ensure scientists¿ strong commitment to user interests. This paper analyzes a system of delegation of research governance to networks in the Dutch agricultural sector, in which the research council has adopted the role of a multiple goal boundary organization that, apart from forming a bridge between government and scientists, also intermediates at several other interfaces. Several tensions are identified that emerge in the different arenas of resea