MCST advises Government on R&I policy matters, both in terms of national and international matters, particularly in EU affairs. At the national level, MCST drives the national R&I Strategy, whilst liaising with various stakeholders (public, private, academic and civil society). Since 2012, MCST has also been responsible for the development of the national innovation strategy for smart specialisation, which is a conditionality for accessing ERDF funding. MCST also monitors the R&I Strategy through a dedicated monitoring mechanism. MCST is also responsible for guiding and advising on EU R&I policy affairs in both the European Council and Parliament. MCST ensure s that national interests are safeguarded in the relevant EU-level discussions... MCST champions R&I engagement across public, academic and private sectors and provides support measures across the research eco-system to help your ideas become a reality. MCST also creates a basis for science education, popularisation and..