The Health Sector as a Key Driver of R&D

Investments in health research accelerate the development of new technologies, medicines, digital solutions, and preventive approaches, while simultaneously stimulating innovation in areas such as biotechnology, artificial intelligence, and data-driven methods. As such, the Health sector not only responds to current health challenges but also shapes the knowledge-based economy and strengthens Europe’s strategic autonomy in critical technologies over the long term.

EU's strategic priority

Among the main priorities of Horizon Europe Cluster 1 – Health for the period 2026–2027 are consolidating the EU’s position as a global leader in life sciences; addressing non-communicable diseases such as mental, cardiovascular, neurodegenerative, and rare diseases; strengthening pandemic preparedness and responses to antimicrobial resistance; and transforming healthcare systems to make them more effective, equitable, accessible, and sustainable. Strong emphasis is placed on understanding and mitigating the health impacts of climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss, while supporting climate adaptation measures and carbon-neutral healthcare systems.

Central themes include the use of health data, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and other key technologies in line with the European Health Data Space, the EU Artificial Intelligence Strategy, and biotechnology initiatives. These activities aim to ensure technological sovereignty, support a competitive EU health industry, and accelerate the translation of innovation from research into practice.

People-centred and inclusive approaches are strongly emphasised, with particular attention to vulnerable groups, including persons with disabilities, children, and young people. Mental health is a cross-cutting priority, especially in relation to climate change and the impacts of digital technologies. Behavioural interventions, preventive strategies, and citizen empowerment are strongly supported. Collaboration is a fundamental building block, with calls promoting the early and continuous involvement of patients, patient organisations, citizens, healthcare professionals, regulators, industry, and policymakers.