Boosting scientific research: evidence from a public program Articles uri icon

publication date

  • October 2013

start page

  • 115

end page

  • 128

issue

  • 62

volume

  • 21

International Standard Serial Number (ISSN)

  • 1133-455X

abstract

  • We analyze the design of a unique Spanish public program aimed at recruiting high-quality researchers in public research centers: the Ramon y Cajal Program. We claim that, after a number of calls for applicants, the program design changed in response to agents' needs. Exploiting data on applications and candidates, we find that the new program design led to significant changes in the probability of being awarded a contract. In particular, opportunities for candidates with no attachment to the system were equalized.

keywords

  • brain gain; government research programs; human capital; policy evaluation