Researchers ‘thrilled’ at UK Horizon and Copernicus links

University of Reading researchers have expressed their delight at the news that the UK has rejoined the Horizon European research programme as an associate member.

The deal struck with the EU also means that the UK will be able to take part in the Copernicus scheme, which provides data for earth observation, climate change and global early warning systems – research areas in which Reading plays a leading national and international role.

Professor Parveen Yaqoob, Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Research and Innovation at the University of Reading, said:

“Finding solutions to global challenges requires genuine collaboration and shared access to resources, people and facilities. We are thrilled that the UK has secured associate membership of the Horizon and Copernicus programmes, after many years of uncertainty and delays.

“At Reading we are particularly pleased that the UK will rejoin Copernicus, which has unparalleled earth observation and analysis programmes, providing some of the best facilities and networks for the study of global environmental issues, including climate change. As one of the leading world centres for climate science, Reading researchers will be able to join and lead new Copernicus projects, making use of our existing global connections and networks that have been decades in the making.”