The European Research Council (ERC) has awarded initiation grants worth 478 early career researchers totaling from 761 million euros across Europe.
Part of the EU’s Horizon Europe programme, these honorable ERC grants are designed to provide young scientists with resources to launch their own projects, build teams and explore groundbreaking ideas in the frontier of knowledge.
Each initiation grant will provide up to 1.5 million euros over five years, with additional funding for key equipment, relocation costs, or large-scale experiments.
The scheme is expected to generate around 3,000 research jobs across Europe.
Professor Maria Leptin, president of ERC, commented:
“But we can do more! Only 12% of all proposals in this competition are funded.
A wide range of projects funded through ERC grants
Successful projects range from physical sciences and engineering to life sciences and social sciences.
An example is:
Netherlands-based research into artificial touches and the possibility of feeling more natural. A study in Austria about how aging forms human tissue and causes disease. An Estonian project to investigate whether adult ADHD reflects ADHD in childhood. A Spanish-led investigation into how plants protect against sun damage.
These examples highlight the diversity of research supported through ERC grants, and are expected to lead to breakthroughs in health, technology and sustainability for many.
Strong competition and diverse talent
This year’s competition attracted nearly 4,000 proposals, which increased by 13% in 2024. Selected over 12% for fundraising, demonstrating the highly competitive nature of the call.
The recipients represent 51 nationalities and carry out their work in 25 countries. Germany secured the largest number of grants (99), followed by the UK (60), the Netherlands (44) and France (41).
In terms of researcher nationalities, Germans (87), Italians (55), and French (33) were top of the list along with 32 from Spain and the UK respectively.
Gender expression is stable, with 42% of this year’s starting grant awarded to women, working closely with the past few years.
Ekaterina Zaharieva, European Commissioner for Startups, Research and Innovation, added:
“They improve their knowledge in a wide range of science fields, including cancer, mental health and quantum science.
“We see scientists coming to Europe with these new grants coming to Europe, and many have chosen to stay here thanks to this support.
Pending participation in Switzerland
The list of grantees remains tentative due to Switzerland’s pending relationship with Horizon Europe. A final contract is expected in 2025.
Until then, researchers based in Switzerland have risked ineligibility unless they transfer the project to a qualified EU or related host institution.
Promoting the future of innovation in Europe
By empowering talented early career researchers, ERC can not only strengthen the scientific foundations of Europe, but also enhance fuel innovation and job creation.
The latest round confirms the key role of ERC in fostering the next generation of world-class scientists and thinkers.
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