The paper sets out the slow and problematic development of university research in France, and its academic focus and lack of connection to policy and practice. At the same time France has a strong state administration with a highly developed capacity to use scientific knowledge and tools in specific ways. There has been competition between the two sectors as a result of the expansion and diffusion of scientific knowledge, and more open conceptions of policy. Researchers are more keen to develop useful knowledge and have become more dependent on local and national politicians. The paper will consider the possible future developments in relation to the effects of European steering of research policy on France. Up to now, France has attempted to withdraw symbolically from globalisation. However there are effects, such as OECD evaluations, which have led to a small network of researchers and policy makers oriented towards international models. Another development that will be considered is the growing dissasociation between internationaised research in psychology and areas that resist such internationalization, like sociology of education.