Funded by

European Research Council (ERC):
The EU is funding research in a variety of ways through Horizon 2020, the Framework Programme for Research and Innovation.

In brief

Postdoctoral researchers of any nationality can strengthen their research independence through the consolidation of their own research team at a host institution (universities, research institutions, companies and international organisations) in Germany (or another EU member state or Horizon 2020 associated country).

Who can apply?

Senior researchers who

• completed an excellent PhD, generally between 7 and 12 years ago
• are at the beginning of an independent research career and have already shown research independence
• have a promising academic track record
• present a ground-breaking and ambitious research proposal

Further requirements

The host institution must employ the researcher for at least the duration of the project. Applicants must provide a letter of commitment from the host institution.

Type and extent of funding

Funding of up to 2 million euros, in exceptional cases up to 2.75 million euros, to complete a research project of the researcher’s choice. The researcher’s salary may also be (partly) paid out of these funds.

Duration

Up to 5 years.

Application

Applications must be submitted online by the researcher on behalf of the host institution through the Participant Portal (see link below). ERC Consolidator Grants are advertised once a year. The application period in 2018 ends on 15 February 2018.

Information from the National Contact Point ERC: www.erc-germany.de > ERC Consolidator Grants

Participant Portal: www.ec.europa.eu/horizon2020 > How to get funding?