New analysis commissioned by Department of Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) has shown that UK researchers saw increased chances of impacting their fields when backed through the Horizon R&D programme.
DSIT stated that the outcomes from these research projects demonstrated the unique value of R&D to the government’s mission of national renewal.
The report found that UK researchers secured €7.8bn (c. £6.75bn) in funding through nearly 11,000 projects in H2020, which ran from 2014-2020.
Analysis also showed H2020 had a positive effect on the quality of UK publications as measured by citation impact.
There was evidence that, without H2020 funding, projects would have had to be abandoned or changed substantially in terms of scope timeline, and/or location.
UK science minister Lord Vallance said: “Better Type 1 diabetes care and more productive farming techniques are just some of the breakthroughs made possible by the UK’s past involvement in Horizon.
“Today, the programme is supporting innovators whose ideas are set to boost economic growth and improve our public services.
“This new evidence shows why it is so crucial that we support our brilliant scientists, researchers and businesses to seize the opportunities Horizon offers. In 2026 we’ll continue doing just that.”
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