Leading universities in Germany and the UK have warned that proposed European Union preference rules in the bloc’s next research framework could hurt collaboration in key areas.
In a statement, the Russell Group and German U15 called on EU leaders to ensure Horizon Europe remains open to all “trusted partners”, allowing UK researchers to continue to “strengthen Europe’s research excellence” 10 years after the Brexit vote.
The EU is considering stronger European “preference rules” for its next research framework programme, which could prioritise projects involving organisations, facilities and activities based in EU member states in strategic areas, with the aim of strengthening Europe’s economic security and strategic autonomy.
“Trusted associated countries such as the UK and Switzerland should have full access to Horizon calls, retain their current observer role in the governance of the collaborative Pillar II, and not lose out from proposals for ‘EU preference’ in the programme,” the two university groups said.
“From space and satellites to batteries and biotech, bringing universities and businesses from the EU and associated countries together can make Europe more innovative, competitive and resilient.”
