We have previously written that the Faculty and the departments must cut costs. Now it’s The Research Council’s turn. In Khrono (khrono.no), Nobel Prize winners Moser and Moser warn for the effects of funding cuts. They are shocked and they are not alone. Khrono writes: In order to save NOK 842 million this year and next year, it is proposed, among other things, to reduce the allocations this year by 20 per cent, not to announce funds for ground breaking research (Fripro) next year and postpone the start of new Centers of excellence”. In addition, there are proposals to postpone the funding of research infrastructure.
How should we handle this as a department? I think it is important to apply for funding from the Research Council even if the “eye of the needle” is even narrower than before. Furthermore, we must look for alternative sources of funding. Here, Horizon Europe stands out as a great opportunity. While Norway cuts research funding, the EU will invest 95.5 billion Euros in Horizon Europe (2021-2027)!
The research department arranged an information day on 13 May where the application possibilities were explained, and they are many and organized in 3 pillars
- Excellent science (ERC scholarship, Marie Sklodowska-Curie mobility program)
- Global Challenges and European Industrial Competitiveness, where, among other things, Health is one of the programs
- Innovative Europe
Horizon Europe has a special focus on adaptation to climate change, cancer, climate-neutral smart cities, healthy seas and lakes, soil health and food
Here are opportunities to apply that we pursue. The Research Department at UiB and our research advisers are ready to help.
I’ll make Nike’s slogan my own: just do it!
Eystein Husebye
Vice Head, K2