UK scientists now have access to the world’s largest research collaboration programme, Horizon Europe, which was lost as a result of Brexit.

From 7 September, UK researchers can apply for grants and bid to take part in projects under the Horizon programme, with certainty that the UK will be participating as a fully associated member for the remaining life of the programme 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 – ensuring we can shape collaboration taking place next year. UK researchers will also be able to lead consortia in the next work programme of Horizon Europe projects.

The UK will also associate to Copernicus, the European Earth Observation programme. This will provide the UK’s earth observation sector with access to unique data – valuable to helping with early flood and fire warnings, for example – and with the ability to bid for contracts, which they haven’t been able to access for three years since Brexit.

See: UK joins Horizon Europe under a new bespoke deal – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)