The present draft bill considers the increasingly decisive role that research plays in the current economic context, particularly in the most advanced European economies. Worldwide, changes stemming from competitive dynamics add to those taking place in companies in relation to organisation. They are the result of technological innovations and new demographic trends and affect working and manufacturing practices. Consequently, and in consideration of the developments in the way of doing business referred to above, researchers can play a pivotal role in meeting the needs of the market. With a view of ensuring their acknowledgment, it is necessary to put in place a modern legal and industrial relations system. This will help to appreciate the work of these professionals and to ensure them adequate contractual arrangements, while also assessing and offsetting their different levels of productivity.