UK Returns To Horizon Europe Boosting Life Sciences Growth

The United Kingdom has once again become a part of Horizon Europe through a fresh agreement with the European Union. This development opens up opportunities for British scientists to engage in the world’s largest research and development collaboration program. Researchers can now apply for grants and participate in projects with confidence, knowing that the UK will maintain its full associate membership until the agreement concludes in 2027.

In essence, this arrangement allows British companies to collaborate with their European counterparts on research endeavors and provides access to crucial EU funding for research and innovation. Helen Brain, Head of Health and Life Sciences at Square One Law emphasized the significance of this by saying, “[It] will enable British companies to collaborate with their European counterparts on research projects, as well as allowing them to access vital EU research and innovation funding.”

Participation in Horizon Europe also grants access to the €95.5 billion program, as noted by Dr. Benjamin Reid, Programme Director for Innovation at the Confederation of British Industry (CBI). He emphasized that collaboration in research and innovation with the EU is essential for driving long-term sustainable growth and addressing global challenges like climate change.

Janet Valentine, Executive Director for Innovation and Research Policy at the Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry (ABPI), pointed out that this association revitalizes the long-standing partnership in research and development between the UK and the EU. It directly contributes to the growth and competitiveness of the UK’s life sciences sector, making it an attractive destination for talented researchers.

Additionally, it fosters greater regulatory alignment between the UK and the EU, which benefits exporters and eases the movement of researchers and professionals between the two regions. Helen Brain further explained that the UK’s association with Horizon Europe is expected to create thousands of new job opportunities, aligning with the goal of growing the economy and solidifying the UK’s position as a science and technology leader by 2030.

Recent data released by the BioIndustry Association (BIA) and Clarivate shows that the UK’s life sciences sector has experienced consistent growth in financing activity during Q2 2023. Despite global market challenges, UK-based life science and biotech companies secured £382 million in venture and public financing, marking a 29 percent increase from Q1’s £295 million. This growth was primarily driven by venture capital investments.

Regarding the impact of the UK’s association with Horizon Europe, there is a new automatic clawback mechanism to protect the UK if its scientists receive significantly less funding than the country contributes to the program. This differs from the original terms of association, according to the UK government.

Dr. Tim Bradshaw, Chief Executive of the Russell Group, emphasized that the substantial research supported by Horizon Europe will lead to breakthroughs in medicine, advancements in technologies, and progress in areas such as artificial intelligence (AI).