UK researchers and organisations engaging with the Horizon Europe international matchmaking platform now have access to a comprehensive privacy notice outlining how their personal data will be managed. The notice details the collection, processing, and use of information submitted through the programme's matchmaking form, designed to foster cross-border collaborations within the European Union's flagship research and innovation initiative.
Horizon Europe, with a budget of approximately 95.5 billion Euros, is open to participation from countries worldwide, including the UK. The matchmaking facility is a crucial tool, enabling researchers, academics, and businesses to connect with potential partners across Europe and beyond, identifying synergies for joint project proposals. Given the international nature of these collaborations, the safeguarding of personal data is a significant consideration.
The privacy notice specifies the types of data collected, which typically include contact details, professional affiliations, research interests, and expertise. It explains the legal basis for processing this data, primarily focusing on facilitating legitimate research collaborations and complying with relevant data protection regulations. Participants are informed about their rights regarding their personal data, such as access, rectification, and erasure.
For UK entities, participation in Horizon Europe has been a complex but ultimately successful endeavour following Brexit. After initial uncertainties, the UK formally associated with Horizon Europe in September 2023, allowing full access to the programme on the same terms as EU member states. This association means UK researchers can lead consortia and receive funding directly from the programme, making the matchmaking tool and its associated data privacy extremely pertinent.
The UK Government has actively encouraged British researchers to engage with Horizon Europe, recognising the immense benefits of international scientific collaboration. The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) plays a key role in supporting UK participation, providing guidance and resources. The publication of this privacy notice aligns with broader efforts to ensure transparency and trust in digital platforms used for international scientific cooperation.
The notice also touches upon data sharing, indicating that personal data may be shared with other participants in the matchmaking process to facilitate connections, as well as with relevant programme administrators and funding bodies, strictly for the purpose of the Horizon Europe programme. It assures participants that appropriate technical and organisational measures are in place to protect their data from unauthorised access or disclosure.
Source: Horizon Europe international matchmaking: privacy notice