UK to associate to Horizon Europe and Copernicus programmes through a bespoke new agreement with the EU

UK scientists once again have access to the Horizon Europe research programme, the UK Government and the European Commission confirmed this week in a bespoke deal. The UK will also now associate to Copernicus, the European Earth Observation programme.

As of Thursday 7 September, UK researchers can apply for grants and bid to take part in projects under the programmes, with certainty that the UK will be participating as a fully associated member for the remaining life of both.

Association to Horizon Europe will strengthen and deepen links between the scientific communities in the UK, the EU and beyond. This will enable researchers to work together on global challenges, from climate to health.

This means that UK researchers and innovators will be able to fully participate in the Horizon Europe programme on the same terms as researchers from other associated countries, including leading consortia, from the 2024 Work Programmes and onwards – including any 2024 calls opening this year.

For calls from the 2023 Work Programmes, the European Commission will continue to administer transitional arrangements and the UK will continue to provide funding under the UK Guarantee. UK and EU scientists and researchers can have confidence in continuing long-term partnerships with their counterparts.

The association of the UK to Copernicus will enable the UK’s access to a state-of-the art capacity to monitor the Earth and to its services. The UK will also have access to EU Space Surveillance and Tracking services.

Professor Tariq Ali, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Global Engagement and Partnerships said: “It’s fantastic to hear today’s news confirming the UK’s association to Horizon Europe. Our collaborations and partnerships in Europe are an integral part of our Global Engagement strategy and the new deal will create an environment in which these relationships can thrive.”

Click here to access support in engaging with the Horizon Europe programme: https://www.liverpool.ac.uk/intranet/international-funding-opportunities/externalfunding/horizoneurope/ 

Those with an interest in the Horizon Europe programme can also access a series of events. The next event, taking place on Wednesday 13th September, is a masterclass from Maëlle Gibbons-Patourel, Senior Research Development Manager – Horizon Europe, dedicated to collaborative grants under the programme. Click here to register.

Click here to access support in engaging with the Horizon Europe programme. If you need support or have questions about engaging with Horizon Europe, please contact Maëlle Gibbons-Patourel from the Research and Partnerships team.