UK scientists now have access to Horizon Europe following UK/EU agreement
Following an agreement between the UK and European Union, UK scientists will now have access to Horizon Europe, reported to be the world’s largest research collaboration programme. It was announced that the UK is expected to participate as a fully associated member for the remaining life of the programme (up to 2027), with UK researchers now able to apply for grants and bid to take part in projects.
The move will not only open up cooperation with the EU, but also Norway, New Zealand and Israel which are part of the programme – and countries like Korea and Canada which are also looking to join.
Once adopted, the UK will also be able to join the governance of EU programmes – which the UK has been excluded from over the last three years since Brexit – in an effort to ensuring the UK can shape collaboration taking place next year.
In line with the preferences of the UK fusion sector, the UK has decided to pursue a domestic fusion energy strategy instead of associating to the EU’s Euratom programme. This will involve close international collaboration, including with European partners, and a new, cutting-edge alternative programme, backed by up to £650 million to 2027.
“Today’s agreement on UK association to Horizon Europe is brilliant news,” stated Dame Ottoline Leyser, UKRI Chief Executive. “The UK has a long track record of mutually beneficial participation in previous EU schemes and this decision enables us to build on those highly successful collaborations to maximise the opportunities membership of Horizon Europe provides.”
More information on Horizon Europe is available here.
