Message from Tim Elliott, Pro Vice-Chancellor Research and Enterprise
Although the result of the referendum on Friday has left us with many questions regarding the implications for the sector and the University, I would like to emphasise that we are totally committed to pursuing research in the global scientific landscape. We will be working with our colleagues to enable UK research to maintain its world-leading position, and will continue to forge strong partnerships with our colleagues in Europe. Today, the Department of Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) has released a statement that is a useful official summary of the ‘state of play’.
More than ever, we need to strengthen our networks in Europe and continue our involvement in Horizon 2020 and European Research Council programmes. There will be no material changes to our ability to apply to these programmes until we have formally negotiated our exit from the European Union (EU). A number of mechanisms are currently in place for non-EU members to actively participate in European research and development programmes. The extent of the UK participation in the future will come down to negotiations.
In the meantime, please continue to make applications.
Over the last few days, the importance of Europe to the research community in the UK has been restated by professional societies, including:
- Royal Society
- British Academy
- Royal Academy of Engineering
- Royal Society of Chemistry
- Royal Astronomical Society
- Academy of Medical Sciences
The University is fully engaged with Universities UK and Research UK Office in Brussels to influence discussions to secure European funding for our research. We will be working with the Russell Group to press for a clear message about future UK participation in Horizon 2020 from BIS.
The EU Office will continue to play a facilitation role for the University’s research community during the current period of uncertainty and will assist with you with all your bids and contracts in the meantime – [email protected] .