ERC Synergy Grants

In brief

ERC Synergy Grants are awarded to groups of two to four outstanding researchers of any nationality. They can be at the start of their careers or established researchers and should bring together complementary skills, knowledge and resources to address research problems that could lead to breakthroughs not possible by the individual researchers working alone. Applications can be made in any field of research.

Who can apply?

A group of excellent researchers that

  • is interdisciplinary
  • plans to use multidisciplinary approaches and
  • has a ground-breaking and ambitious research proposal that would not be possible working alone

Researchers must present an early achievement track record or a ten-year track record, whichever is most appropriate.

Further requirements

The host institutions (universities, research institutions, companies or international organisations) must be in Europe (EU member state or associated country). However, one researcher per Synergy Grant group at any one time can be hosted or engaged by an institution outside the EU or an associated country. The host institutions must employ the researchers for at least the duration of the project. Applicants must provide a letter of commitment from the host institutions.

Type and extent of funding

Funding of up to 10 million euros, in exceptional cases up to 14 million euros, for a research project of the researchers’ choice. The researchers’ salary may also be (partly) paid out of these funds.

Duration

Up to 6 years.

Application

Applications must be submitted online by the researchers on behalf of the host institutions through the Funding & Tenders Portal (see link below). ERC Synergy Grants are usually advertised once a year.

EU Funding & Tenders Portal

Find all funding programmes and tenders managed by different EU bodies here.

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