🇪🇺 ERC Starting Grant: Empowering the Next Generation of Research Leaders
Hero Highlight (50 words):
The ERC Starting Grant offers early-career researchers a unique opportunity to launch their independent scientific careers in Europe. With funding up to €2.5 million, this competitive program enables breakthrough research in any field, backed by global recognition, institutional support, and unmatched flexibility under the Horizon Europe framework.
🔍 What Is the ERC Starting Grant?
The European Research Council (ERC) Starting Grant is a prestigious funding initiative designed to support outstanding early-career researchers. Funded under the European Union’s Horizon Europe program, this grant empowers promising scientists to establish their own research teams and projects at institutions located in the EU or associated countries.
The program targets researchers who are between 2 to 7 years post-PhD and who demonstrate a strong potential to become independent research leaders. It promotes frontier research across all disciplines—from quantum computing and biomedical engineering to philosophy and social sciences.
✅ Eligibility Criteria: Are You Qualified?
To be eligible for the ERC Starting Grant, applicants must meet the following criteria:
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Career Stage | 2 to 7 years post-PhD (exceptions for career breaks allowed) |
| Nationality | Open to researchers of any nationality |
| Host Institution | Must be based in an EU Member State or Horizon Europe Associated Country |
| Track Record | Demonstrated potential through impactful publications, awards, patents |
| Research Proposal | Must present a novel, high-risk/high-reward scientific idea |
Important: Only one ERC grant application is allowed per cycle. Resubmissions are restricted under certain evaluation outcomes.
💰 Grant Funding & Budget Breakdown
ERC Starting Grants are among the most generous research awards globally. Here’s a breakdown of the funding:
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- Base Grant Amount: Up to €1.5 million for a duration of 5 years
- Additional Funding: Up to €1 million for relocation, equipment, or startup costs
What the Grant Covers:
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- Salary of the Principal Investigator (PI), if applicable
- Salaries for postdocs, PhD students, and other team members
- Equipment, materials, and research consumables
- Travel expenses for conferences and collaborations
- Overhead costs (25% flat rate on eligible direct costs)
