Researchers working in the UK can now apply to the the world’s largest research and innovation fund as the UK rejoins Horizon Europe.
Horizon is the EU’s flagship scientific research funding scheme worth £81bn. Negotiations had been taking place between the UK Government and the EU, who made the announcement of the new agreement this morning. Researchers based at UK institutions will be able to apply for the funding from today.
Epilepsy Research UK Chief Executive Maxine Smeaton said:
“We are delighted with today’s news that researchers working in epilepsy will once again be eligible to apply for this funding. The UK is a world leader in epilepsy research and innovation, and the ability to have access to this research funding will support our position in accelerating innovations for people living with epilepsy. The Epilepsy Research Institute will aim to play an active role in convening, coordinating and supporting research applications.”
The Epilepsy Research Institute will launch on 2nd October and will serve as the central hub for the epilepsy research community. Our mission will be to radically advance research into the causes, prevention and treatment of epilepsy and its associated conditions. The Institute aims to strengthen the epilepsy research ecosystem by driving strategic investment and developing partnerships and collaborations between academia, the NHS, industry, funders, patient groups and people affected by epilepsy. Research funding programmes such as Horizon Europe provide a unique opportunity to bring together collaborative international teams working in epilepsy research.
Epilepsy Research UK is a proud member of the Association of Medical Research Charities (AMRC), who played a leading role in campaigning for this news. Their CEO Nicola Perrin said:
“Finally the news we’ve been waiting for – the UK is rejoining Horizon Europe. Ongoing Government commitment to cross-border collaboration in research is crucial to deliver benefits to patients. This will help improve confidence and stability in UK research, in which charities play a vital role. The announcement will be a huge relief to charities, and the research they fund.”
We would like to thank the AMRC for their advocacy and tireless campaigning.
If you’re a researcher and have questions about how Horizon Europe could benefit your research, UK Minister of State at the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, George Freeman MP will be answering questions live on LinkedIn.
You can read more about the Horizon deal in the government’s press release.