The Russell Group, together with the Campaign for Science and Engineering (CaSE), the Institute of Physics (IoP) and the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC), has written to the Prime Minister and the President of the European Commission this week to urge them to ensure R&D collaboration remains on the agenda for the upcoming UK-EU summit.

As both sides seek a reset in EU-UK relations, the R&D community is encouraging both leaders to prioritise science and research collaboration’s vital role in setting the terms of the future relationship.

The letter points to the successes Horizon Europe has already delivered, showing what can be achieved by working together. As all European leaders navigate uncertain times, the summit in May presents a critical opportunity to solidify our relationship. Science and research breakthroughs can unlock shared advances in defence and security, healthcare, climate change and other pressing concerns.

Douglas Dowell, Policy Manager for the Russell Group, said: “Researchers, innovators and universities are ready to meet the UK and EU’s shared ambitions on delivering growth and tackling social challenges. 

“Work delivered through Horizon Europe benefits both sides, and growing R&D collaboration has a crucial role to play in strengthening our ties in the years to come.”

Read the letter in full below.