ERC Starting Grants

Funded by

European Research Council (ERC)

In brief

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

Who can apply?

Junior researchers who

• completed an excellent PhD, generally between 2 and 7 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 1.5 million euros, in exceptional cases up to 2.5 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 Funding & Tenders Portal (see link below). ERC Starting Grants are advertised once a year. For information on the next application period please check the ERC website.