When the UK left the EU, its membership of the EU research and innovation programme Horizon Europe ended for a number of years. As a result, it was no longer possible to apply for research funding. This in turn made the UK research landscape less attractive for top scientific talent. A 2023 survey of cancer research experts working in the UK discussed the importance of Europe for the UK as a research location. The head of a cancer research laboratory was also interviewed. His answer: “We are losing many top-class young scientists who decide to go to EU countries to receive grants from the European Research Council. The UK is at risk of a brain drain if we do not manage to make the UK more attractive to international talent. The opportunity to apply for grants under Horizon Europe is an important step in this direction.”
An agreement was finally reached in September 2023. The European Commission announced that the UK would again participate in Horizon Europe and also in the Copernicus Earth observation programme. “The UK is obliged to make a financial contribution to the EU budget,” the Commission’s statement said. “Overall, it is expected that the UK will provide an average of almost €2.6 billion per year for its participation in Horizon Europe and Copernicus.” As part of the agreement, organisations and researchers from the UK have been able to contribute in the same way since 1 January 2024. like their colleagues in the EU Member States, have access to Horizon Europe funds.
Lancet authors Bagenal and McKeedaran generally welcome the fact that medical science and research funding have been strengthened by the agreed cooperation with the EU. However: “As a mere associate member, the UK will have only limited influence on the research agenda, and the delay in joining has been an obstacle for researchers, funders and regulators. Deviating from EU rules could also make it more difficult than before Brexit to conduct global clinical trials in the UK.” The non-profit Nuffield Trust, which researches the consequences of Brexit on the British healthcare system, comes to a similar conclusion: “The long period of uncertainty surrounding Horizon Europe has likely resulted in British universities and researchers missing out on funding opportunities that will never return.”
