Horizon 2020 update supports competitiveness
Building upon the success of the 2015-2016 work programme, H2020 incorporates new and important updates for 2016-2017.
Designed to contribute to jobs, growth and investment, whilst reinforcing European competitiveness, the update has the potential to change EU-funded projects with the introduction of open research data in all new H2020 calls.
Aligned with the mandate of the commission, the update promotes sustainability in growth and jobs through innovation, with calls for proposals and activities also contributing to this policy area, as well as in broader terms to one or more of other areas including migration and justice, the Energy Union and the digital single market.
In 2017, almost €1.8bn will be available through the European Research Council (ERC); through which promising researchers will be invited to investigate innovative ideas that could lead to commercial breakthroughs. During that same year, more than 10,000 Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions fellows will benefit from high-quality training and career development opportunities in the EU and abroad.
Crime and terrorism have not been neglected in the update, forming part of the 2017 security calls. With a budget of €49m, researchers in this area will make significant contributions to methods of fighting and preventing organised crime, tackling terrorist ideology, and guaranteeing fundamental rights and values.
Seven calls have already been made under the Industrial Leadership pillar; 17 each under both the Excellent Science and Societal Challenges pillars.
The EU’s Horizon 2020 research funding programme now has a specific set of rules on research integrity. The updated agreement provides improved clarity on previously general requirements, and makes specific calls for researchers to respect the principles of honesty, objectivity, fairness and responsibility.
The agreement can be read in full here.
