David Matthews

As the decade-long - and at times controversial - Human Brain Project draws to a close, there are fears the research landscape around neurosciences could fragment. Member states now want a new way to coordinate research.

Following objections from member states, the Commission has shifted position and after receiving assurances, now appears open to UK involvement in these strategic fields, while Israel will be allowed to take part in quantum research

"Time is running out”, warned an EU representative, after Commissioner appeared to imply a link between association and the stand-off over Northern Ireland

There is a commitment to ‘mutual understanding’ but beyond the warm words little evidence of common ground on AI regulation

Commission welcomes Swiss parliament’s decision to pay overdue contributions to cohesion funding, but insists it will not lead to association without broader agreements first

The UK government trumpets the move as an advantage of Brexit, and plant scientists are supportive. Some researchers believe it could prefigure similar moves to ease rules in the EU

With association now linked to the EU’s wider relationship with Switzerland and the UK, the parliament wants a formal position in talks. Research programmes have increasingly become ‘strategic instruments’ tied to the ‘general political agenda’

The country could take months to form a government. But here is the Science|Business guide to the research policy priorities and personalities in play

It is some months later than expected, but announcement pair are signed up signals end to Brexit, COVID-19 and tech sovereignty-induced delays. But impasse over Swiss association goes on