UK rejoins Horizon Europe 11 Sep 2023

Britain’s life science community is celebrating the country’s return to the EU Horizon Europe research programme, which was announced on 7 September 2023.

The deal, described by the government as a ‘bespoke new agreement’, has been refined over the past six months. It means that, from 7 September, UK researchers can apply for grants and bid to take part in projects under the Horizon programme, knowing that the UK will be participating as a fully associated member for the remainder of the programme up to 2027.

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 – to shape collaboration in 2024. In addition, UK researchers will be able to lead consortia in the next work programme of Horizon Europe projects.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak commented, “We have worked with our EU partners to make sure that this is right deal for the UK, unlocking unparalleled research opportunities, and also the right deal for British taxpayers.”

Following years of negotiations, and a breakthrough in discussions when the Windsor Framework on Northern Ireland was agreed in February 2023, researchers were hopeful that a deal would be announced earlier this year. However, the government had pressed on for improved financial terms.

Read more about the deal here.

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