European Life Science Research Infrastructures (LS-RIs) Launch FP10 Position Paper

This article is 311 words and is an approximate 2-minute read.

The European Life Science Research Infrastructures (LS-RIs) have launched a joint position paper, outlining key messages for the next Framework Programme for Research (FP10): “Driving Innovation and Collaboration: A Strategic Vision for European Life Science Research Infrastructures in Framework Programme 10”. The paper is timed with the current evaluation of Horizon Europe and mapping out the research, technology and innovation policies that should be shaped beyond 2027. It aims to ensure that FP10 priorities incorporate key fields of life science research building on Research Infrastructures.

The key messages for consideration are:

• Strengthening established European Research Infrastructures as strategic assets: Resources should be directed towards strengthening mature RIs as strategic assets, leveraging them for new initiatives and tasks, and fostering collaboration with other infrastructures, established or emerging.
  • Securing adequate funding: The FP10 programme’s budget allocation should ensure that RIs are adequately funded to continue to evolve to meet major societal challenges, the needs and constant progress of science, and changing political priorities.
  • Fostering use and visibility of RIs: FP10 should facilitate more effective utilisation of RI services by projects funded under other themes and pillars of the programme.
  • Providing cluster funding: Providing cluster funding to Research Infrastructures is urgently needed to ensure the continued advancement and competitiveness of European research.
  • Allocating resources for impact assessment: By prioritising impact assessment, FP10 can ensure that investments in RIs are strategically aligned with broader policy goals and inform decision-making.
• Leveraging the emergent synergies of INFRA-SERV projects and continue TNA budget: Sustained and increased investment in TNA and INFRA-SERV projects will foster cross-disciplinary collaboration, enhance data sharing, and accelerate scientific breakthroughs.

As Europe prepares for FP10, let’s ensure that LS-RIs can continue to fuel scientific innovation and collaboration.

The full paper can be downloaded here.

The LS-RI Strategy Board has been chaired by BBMRI-ERIC’s Director General Jens Habermann from October 2023 to October 2024 and will now be handed over to ERINHA’s Director General, Jonathan Ewbank.