On Monday, December 9th, science and technology leaders from the UK and Switzerland finalized an update to their pivotal science and research agreement, setting the stage for collaboration on vital contemporary challenges such as advancing public health and transitioning to renewable energy sources.
As natural allies in innovation, the UK and Switzerland together host ten of Europe’s leading 20 research universities. To foster an even stronger bond between the brightest minds from both nations, Innovate UK and the Swiss innovation authority, Innosuisse, have allocated approximately £8 million in joint funding to support 11 UK-Swiss research initiatives.
These projects encompass a variety of fields, including the development of new antibacterial coatings to reduce infection risks during hip and knee surgeries and leveraging quantum technology to create cost-effective, specialized sensors for applications in anti-counterfeiting and manufacturing quality control. This venture continues the work of the UK-Switzerland Collaborative R&D funding, which has historically supported groundbreaking projects such as enhanced CO2 emissions capture methods and robotic surgeons to advance stroke treatment.
Given their global importance in life sciences, both countries are once again capitalizing on their areas of expertise. The UK’s life sciences sector is valued at £108 billion, while Switzerland boasts influential companies like Roche and Novartis. Together, they have launched a new £8 million joint funding call to support UK-Swiss clinical trials aimed at yielding revolutionary treatments and diagnoses for various diseases currently impacting people in both regions. The UK’s NIHR and the Swiss National Science Foundation will oversee this collaboration.
On this occasion, UK Science Minister Lord Vallance and Swiss State Secretary for Education, Research and Innovation, Martina Hirayama, signed an updated Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Berne during a Joint Committee Meeting. This gathering united prominent figures from both scientific communities.
Lord Vallance noted, “Often, significant breakthroughs occur when transformative thinkers come together. Deepening our connections with research leaders like Switzerland ensures science serves as a positive force globally.”
Swiss Federal Councillor Guy Parmelin added, “I am thrilled about the enriched cooperation between Switzerland and the UK, strengthened further by partnerships among our innovation agencies, national science foundations, and renowned scientific institutions.”
UK Health Minister Baroness Gillian Merron emphasized, “This alliance is a pivotal step in establishing the UK as a life sciences powerhouse. By merging our expertise in clinical research with top-tier researchers, we can hasten the development of pioneering treatments benefiting patients in both countries.”
Chief Scientific Adviser Professor Lucy Chappell from the UK’s DHSC commented, “International cooperative endeavors such as our partnership with the Swiss National Science Foundation promote innovative thinking and unique solutions to complex health challenges, benefiting both emerging researchers and the wider scientific community.”
The 11 recipients of the UK-Switzerland Collaborative R&D Round 2 competition will share £4 million from Innovate UK, matched by the same amount in Swiss Francs from Innosuisse. Cumulatively, over £11.5 million has been awarded to 39 research projects since 2022 as part of ongoing UK-Swiss collaboration.
The updated MoU pledges engagement in burgeoning fields like climate research and artificial intelligence. Lord Vallance, during his trip, will experience Swiss advancements firsthand at leading Swiss research institutions.
This latest agreement exemplifies the UK’s commitment to nurturing robust global partnerships, solidifying its reputation as a trusted ally, and leveraging science and technology for the greater good. Today’s commitments pave the way for collaborative innovation, fostering future-focused investments, and promoting adaptation to technological advancements, green energy, and safer living environments.