The UK government is strengthening its science and technology links with the EU by boosting participation in Horizon Europe, the world’s largest programme of research collaboration.

Additionally, the UK will join four European Research Infrastructure Consortia (ERICs), including the European Research Infrastructure for Heritage Science, to further boost collaborative ties between researchers across Europe.

The government said that the move will enable the EU and the UK to tackle shared global challenges such as climate change.

The EU spent €380 billion on research and development in 2023, with the government saying that fostering deep and high-quality links between the continent and the UK will be “critical” to improving the British economy.

An advertising campaign will highlight the potential benefits of participation in Horizon Europe, focusing on businesses and researchers who have benefited from the programme.

This includes Nova Innovation, a company developing turbines for the tidal energy industry, and Electra Commercial vehicles, which is developing electric trucks that can go further without needing to recharge.

“There is no question about it: we stand our best chance of tackling the great challenges of our era, from climate change to public health, to growing economies that work for everyone, by bringing the brightest minds from across the UK and the European Union, together,” said UK science and technology secretary Peter Kyle. “The UK is determined to give our researchers, innovators and businesses the opportunities and platforms they need to bring their great ideas to life, to the benefit of us all – all of which is highlighted by our new Horizon ad campaign.”

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