Barriers to research collaboration in Europe as a result of Brexit would harm scientific progress, says a group of leading UK universities. Science and research should be a priority in the talks between the UK and the EU, says the Russell Group of research intensive universities. Any barriers "would be bad for the UK and bad for Europe", said the group's acting director, Tim Bradshaw. His comments come as the EU prepares to authorise the start of the talks.
Mr Barnier expects the talks to begin immediately after June's general election. UK universities are among the biggest beneficiaries of the EU's huge Horizon 2020 research fund. The Russell Group says there will be "no winners" if Brexit results in barriers between researchers and has pledged to work with "all sides to secure a positive outcome".
