Prime Minister Rishi Sunak graced the University of Warwick with a landmark announcement, revealing the UK’s return to the EU’s Horizon research scheme. This monumental decision reinstates access to the £85 billion funding program for UK-based innovators and researchers, signaling a significant advancement for the higher education landscape.
Standing at the prestigious University of Warwick, renowned for its excellence in science and innovation and deeply entwined with European research collaborators, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak declared the UK’s reassociation with Horizon as an emphatic stride forward.
In affirming the decision, Sunak emphasized its alignment with the nation’s interests, labeling it the ‘right deal for the UK’ while solidifying the country’s position as an associate member within Horizon.
The Prime Minister’s choice of Warwick for this pivotal policy announcement underscores the institution’s global stature in scientific endeavors. During his visit, Sunak embarked on a tour of the university’s International Manufacturing Centre, accompanied by Robin Clark, Dean of Warwick Manufacturing Group, and Emma Flynn, the university’s esteemed Provost.
Prior to the public announcement, the Prime Minister engaged in a private dialogue with university leaders including Sir David Normington, Chair of Council; Professor Emma Flynn, Provost; Rachel Sandby-Thomas, Registrar; and Dr. Chris Twine, Secretary to Council.
Professor Emma Flynn expressed profound gratitude for the Prime Minister’s visit, stating, “The fact the Prime Minister chose to come to Warwick to make such a major announcement on science funding gives me a sense of enormous pride in our brilliant academics and researchers.”
Sir David Normington lauded the announcement, emphasizing its broad benefits. “Allowing our scientists to work together, irrespective of borders, is in all of our interests,” he stated.
The announcement extends beyond Horizon as the UK also associates itself with Copernicus, the European Earth Observation program. This union grants the UK’s earth observation sector access to crucial data, essential for early warnings on natural calamities like floods and fires.
The University of Warwick, globally recognized for its academic prowess, stands as a beacon of research excellence, with an impressive 92% of its research acclaimed as world-leading or internationally excellent.
