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It has been announced that certain EU funding for research projects will be guaranteed by the UK government after Brexit.
Prof. Dame Anne Glover, Vice-Principal External Affairs & Dean for Europe, University of Aberdeen, said:
“The statement by Phil Hammond delivers some certainty around H2020 funding until the UK leaves the EU. It may provide confidence amongst our EU collaborators that our involvement in proposals will not compromise the success of applications and that is welcome.
“The research community needs to continue pressure to ensure this commitment is fully honoured. We must also highlight the importance of having explicit responsibilities for science, engineering and technology in the Department for Exiting the EU as argued for by Scientists for the EU, the Royal Society and many others.
“Without a clear understanding of the link between science, engineering and technology and our economy the government may inadvertently compromise our future.”
Prof. Venki Ramakrishnan, President of the Royal Society said:
“Today’s announcement that the government will underwrite the value of any European grants awarded to UK researchers for the full award period is something the Royal Society has consistently argued for since the referendum and is very welcome.
“By ensuring that UK-based researchers will remain funded for the full duration of any EU grant that is awarded during the upcoming negotiations, this measure removes the uncertainty in the funding status of UK-based researchers. It will thus ensure that European colleagues can confidently collaborate with UK-based researchers, who can also participate fully in European research programmes.
“Individuals, investors, and our collaborators in the EU and around the world are making decisions over where to work, whom to work with and where to invest every day. Today’s announcement sends a strong message that Britain remains open and collaborative.
“This is important because to do world-leading science, UK researchers need to work with talented people, wherever they are. Moreover, while the UK is a world leader in many areas of science, many of the global challenges we face can only be tackled by countries working together.
“The Royal Society is committed to working with its counterparts in the EU and the rest of the world and I hope that over the coming years the UK will strengthen the ability of its researchers to do so. It will be important to maintain the overall level of funding for UK research, attract the best global talent to the UK and strengthen the ability of UK researchers to work with others around the world.”