Royal Society writes to EU President on Horizon 2020

Sir Paul Nurse, President of the Royal Society, has written to Mr Jean-Claude Juncker, President of the EU, urging him to think carefully about proposals to transfer funds from Horizon 2020 to the European Fund for Strategic Investment.

In the letter, Sir Paul Nurse says:

"Countries around the world, including many within the EU, are recognising the need to invest in science and innovation and importantly they recognise the need to maintain a strong base of what I refer to as discovery research. Without this ‘seed corn’ there can be no applied research. Great consideration has been given to ensuring that Horizon 2020 supports the full ecosystem of research including discovery science and research in more applied areas.

It would seem foolish to weaken this carefully planned approach. I understand the pressure on politicians to deliver short term gains but these quick wins can come at the expense of sustainable growth."

Read the full letter here.