Integrating Social Sciences and Humanities (SSH) in Horizon Europe projects
A quick guide for natural science project proposals
Published on 29/08/2024 by Marlene Kopf
Horizon Europe is the European Union’s current research and innovation program, running from 2021 to 2027 with a budget of approximately €95.5 billion. It aims to foster scientific excellence and address pressing societal challenges. A key aspect of this program is the integration of Social Sciences and Humanities (SSH) into various projects. But why is this SSH integration important, and how can it be specifically implemented in projects focusing on natural sciences?
Why SSH integration in Horizon Europe?
SSH integration into research projects offers several benefits:
- Holistic understanding: Combining scientific and technical approaches with social and humanities perspectives leads to a more comprehensive understanding of complex problems
- Societal relevance: Projects that incorporate Social Sciences and Humanities are better equipped to address societal needs and challenges and make a positive impact for citizens.
- Interdisciplinary innovation: Collaboration between different disciplines fosters creative solutions and innovative approaches.
Examples of SSH integration into natural science projects
1. Biodiversity and society
Biodiversity conservation projects can greatly benefit from SSH expertise: Sociologists and anthropologists can help understand the interactions between people and their natural environment, leading to more effective conservation strategies that are both ecologically sound and socially acceptable.
Implementation: A potential project idea could involve studying traditional agricultural practices and their contribution to biodiversity. Ethnographic methods could be used to document and assess the knowledge and practices of local communities.
2. Health risks from environmental changes
Investigating health risks associated with environmental changes, such as climate change, can be significantly enriched by integrating SSH. Health sociologists and psychologists can contribute to understanding public awareness and behavior patterns regarding environmental health hazards.
Implementation: A project could focus on how different population groups respond to environmental changes and identify the most effective prevention measures. Surveys and interviews could be used to gather data on risk awareness and willingness to change behavior.
3. Genetic technology and ethics
The development and application of new genetic technologies raise numerous ethical questions. Philosophical and ethical analyses are necessary to understand and address the societal implications and potential controversies. Projects in this area can greatly benefit from SSH integration.
Implementation: A project could develop ethical guidelines for using novel technologies in agriculture. Philosophers and ethicists could collaborate with scientists to explore both the technical possibilities and ethical boundaries of these technologies.
4. Sustainable agriculture and food security
Ensuring sustainable agriculture and food security requires a deep understanding of social and economic frameworks. Economists and political scientists can help develop policies and economic strategies that enhance agricultural productivity while protecting the environment.
Implementation: A project could focus on developing sustainable farming methods applicable in economically disadvantaged regions. Socio-economic studies could be conducted to understand and address the needs and challenges of local farmers.
SSH integration in Horizon Europe as a must for natural science and engineering projects
Integrating Social Sciences and Humanities into Horizon Europe projects is not merely a formality but a necessary step to comprehensively and effectively address complex societal challenges.
Especially, but not only, in projects with a biological focus, SSH approaches can provide valuable insights and innovative solutions. By collaborating across disciplines, scientists can collectively achieve sustainable and socially relevant advancements.
Further information on the project requirements for SSH flagged topics and examples for SSH integration can be found in the Horizon Europe Programme Guide (p. 21-22) and on the website of the European Alliance for Social Sciences and Humanities (EASSH).
If you have any questions regarding SSH integration in your specific project proposal, it is recommended that you contact your NCP.