What strategy should France implement for H2020?

Area of Science:

• European Union Research and Innovation Policy
• International Scientific Collaboration
• Clinical Research Funding

Background:

• Horizon 2020, the EU's 8th Framework Programme, has a budget of €79 billion.
• France's participation in previous EU Framework Programmes has not aligned with its scientific or financial contributions.
• A notable funding shortfall of €600 million exists for French-coordinated projects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze France's participation in EU Framework Programmes.
• To identify reasons for France's underrepresentation in European clinical research.
• To propose strategies for enhancing French engagement in EU research initiatives.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of French financial contributions versus funding returns in the 7th Framework Programme.
• Comparison of French clinical research participation with neighboring countries.
• Identification of barriers to French participation in Horizon 2020.

Main Results:

• France contributed 16.5-17% of the 7th Framework Programme budget but received only 12.5-13% in return.
• French participation in clinical research is lower than in comparable EU nations.
• Barriers include resource dilution, lack of multidisciplinarity, and insufficient knowledge of Horizon 2020 mechanisms.

Conclusions:

• France needs to improve its strategic approach to secure greater returns from EU research funding.
• Proposed strategies include broadening scientific perspectives, valuing European collaboration, and establishing expert support centers for funding applications.