The European Research Council (ERC) Advanced Grant is a flagship funding opportunity aimed at highly accomplished researchers seeking to pursue ambitious, high-risk projects that could transform their respective fields. Recognized as one of the most prestigious research grants in Europe, the 2025 cycle offers substantial funding, global visibility, and the flexibility to conduct pioneering research in any domain of science, social science, or humanities.
According to the ERC, this program is designed to empower senior researchers to drive transformative change through long-term, investigator-driven projects.
What is the ERC Advanced Grant?
The ERC Advanced Grant (AdG) is tailored for senior research professionals who have demonstrated sustained excellence and leadership in their academic careers. The grant supports visionary projects that involve innovative and high-risk approaches with the potential for significant scientific or scholarly breakthroughs.
This scheme is ideal for researchers who have a track record of significant publications, awards, or recognitions and who aim to explore novel research territories. It is open across all fields of study and disciplines, encouraging interdisciplinary approaches.
Timeline for the 2025 Application Cycle
Applicants are advised to begin preparations well in advance. The expected schedule is
Milestone | Date |
Call Opens | 22 May 2025 |
Submission Deadline | 28 August 2025 (17:00 CET) |
Results Expected | June 2026 |
The submission window spans approximately three months. During this period, applicants must coordinate with their host institutions, finalize their research proposals, and complete all required documentation.
Eligibility Criteria
The ERC Advanced Grant is reserved for experienced research leaders. Key eligibility requirements include:
- The applicant must be an established research leader recognized for outstanding contributions over the last ten years.
- A typical applicant has 10 years or more of post-PhD experience.
- Must provide evidence of a significant track record of impactful research, such as influential publications, leadership of research groups, or prior major funding.
- The grant is open to researchers of any nationality, but the research project must be hosted at an institution located within an EU Member State or an Associated Country.
Candidates with interdisciplinary expertise or experience managing large-scale research initiatives are especially encouraged to apply.
Funding Overview
ERC Advanced Grants provide generous support, covering both the core project costs and additional expenses necessary to establish or expand a research
Funding Category | Maximum Amount |
Base Grant | Up to €2.5 million over a 5-year period |
Start-up/Relocation Costs | Up to €1 million (increased up to €2 million under WP2025) |
Allowable Uses of Start-Up Funding
The start-up or relocation funding component may be requested under specific circumstances, such as:
- Moving from outside Europe to join a host institution within the EU or Associated Countries.
- Purchasing major research equipment required for project execution.
- Gaining access to large research infrastructures or collaborative facilities.
- Covering exceptional costs related to setting up a new lab, staff recruitment, or unique fieldwork.
These additional funds are particularly advantageous for applicants aiming to scale their work into a more institutionally integrated or transnational project.
How to Prepare a Competitive Application
To increase the chances of success in securing an ERC Advanced Grant, applicants should take a structured approach during the preparation phase:
- EarlyPlanning
- Early
Begin by marking the key deadlines and initiating contact with a potential host institution. Host institutions must be formally involved and are responsible for submitting the grant on behalf of the applicant.
- Drafting a High-Quality Proposal
Craft a compelling research proposal that emphasizes originality, scientific ambition, and methodological robustness. Clearly articulate how your project pushes the frontiers of knowledge.
- Justifying the Budget
Break down your financial requirements, specifying the core research costs and any additional support needed for relocation, setup, or infrastructure. Ensure the budget aligns with project scope and expected outcomes.
Required Documentation
The proposal package includes:
- A Curriculum Vitae (CV) and track record section highlighting key achievements.
- Part B1: Extended synopsis of the project (five-page summary).
- Part B2: Detailed scientific proposal including methodologies, work packages, and expected impact.
- Host institution support letter and ethics self-assessment (if applicable).
- Monitoring Updates
Applicants must remain updated through the official
Final Thoughts
The ERC Advanced Grant represents a transformative opportunity for senior researchers aiming to carry out long-term, high-impact projects within Europe. With a funding ceiling of €2.5 million, and up to €2 million in additional start-up or relocation funding, this grant supports not only innovative science but also institutional capacity building.
Researchers who meet the criteria and possess a vision for scientific advancement should begin preparations now to ensure a compelling application is ready by the submission deadline.
To learn more and access the official call documents, visit the European Research Council’s Advanced Grants page.
Quick Summary Table
Feature | Details |
Program Name | ERC Advanced Grant 2025 |
Host Country/Region | European Union and Associated Countries |
Funded By | European Research Council (ERC) |
Duration | Up to 5 years |
Study Mode | Full-time, on-site research |
Eligibility | Senior researchers with 10+ years post-PhD and significant track record |
Financial Support | €2.5M base + up to €2M start-up/relocation |
Fields of Study | All disciplines |
Application Deadline | 28 August 2025 |
Official Website | See Below |
References
- European Research Council. “ERC Advanced Grant 2025 Call Information.” Accessed June 2025.
- European Commission. “Work Programme 2025 – Horizon Europe.” Accessed June 2025.
FAQs About the ERC Advanced Grant
The ERC Advanced Grant funds cutting-edge research projects led by established scientists aiming to make high-impact scientific or scholarly contributions.
Researchers with over 10 years of post-PhD experience and a proven record of scientific excellence can apply through a host institution in Europe.
Applicants may receive up to €2.5 million for five years, plus an additional €1–2 million for relocation or equipment setup costs.
The submission deadline for the ERC Advanced Grant is 28 August 2025 at 17:00 Brussels time.
Yes, international researchers from any country can apply if their project is hosted by an institution in an EU or associated country.
You need a CV, track record summary, extended synopsis (Part B1), full proposal (Part B2), and a letter of support from the host institution.
Applicants can expect the final funding decision and results to be published around June 2026.
You can include costs for relocation, lab setup, large research equipment, and access to essential facilities needed for the project.
The ERC Advanced Grant is highly competitive, typically awarding funding to only a small percentage of outstanding proposals each year.
Focus on presenting a novel, high-risk research idea, align with ERC evaluation criteria, and demonstrate a strong career track record.
