The European Commission is working on the Horizon Europe 2023-2024 programme with an approximate budget of €95.5 billion. The official version of the programme is due to be published at the end of this year, but unofficial versions of this document have begun to appear in some research organizations and universities.

These unconfirmed versions do not contain accurate financial data but give a general idea of the main areas of research that the European Commission wants to highlight.

Industrial production

Research projects related to rare materials for the battery and semiconductor industries are essential in industrial production. The goal is to create a network of EU experts and expand Europe’s access to raw materials. Scientific research is needed in the exploration, mining, processing, recycling, and replacement of critical raw materials required for electric vehicles, renewable energy, electronics, defense, and aerospace industries.

Data science and computer technology, photonics, graphene, and quantum technologies are also included in the program. Also, the EC mentions different space projects and the development of new rocket engines for European space launchers.

Healthcare Industry

The European Commission notes the possibility of repeated pandemics in the health sector. Since the problem is global in nature and undermines the safety of human beings, the direction of research in this area is highlighted.All research projects related to rapid response to emerging needs for new medicines, medical equipment, and the creation of efficient supply chains are critical for funding.

In addition to the projects related to possible pandemics, the report also noted other areas, such as the study of the healthy relationship between the environment, genetics, and other factors.

The actions of Maria Sklodowska-Curie (MSCA)

The MSCA research mobility programs will be allocated approximately the same spending rates as the previous two years. The program focuses on the mobility of young scientists not only in partner universities but also in different companies. Doctoral and postgraduate students will also have the opportunity to conduct their research outside the EU, for example, at American or Canadian universities.

Civil security for society

The main directions in this area are technologies that help combat cyber-attacks and improve the management of EU borders. The EU will also be ready to finance projects that collect data on the scale and principles of operation of criminal networks engaged in counterfeit pharmaceutical products in the EU.

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Source: Florin Zubașcu and Richard L. Hudson, Science Business
Picture: Pexels