Science Europe takes its place in the research landscape

Paul Boyle

Last year proved to be an important year for research in Europe and 2012 is already shaping up to be equally significant.

First, the European Commission has published its proposals for Horizon 2020, recommending a significant increase in funds compared with Framework 7 that would set its budget at €80 billion. If agreed, this will be a strong statement on the value placed on science within the EU. Second, the Commission has announced the results of a public consultation on the European Research Area, setting an ambitious deadline of 2014 to achieve its goals. Third, Science Europe has been established to represent 49 of Europe’s major research funding and performing organisations, with an office in Brussels. This will provide a voice for science in Brussels, which has been lacking until now.