ERC Starting Grants

Funded by

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 associated country). Applications can be made in any field of research.

Who can apply?

Talented early career 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.

www.erc-germany.de > ERC Starting Grants

EU Funding & Tenders Portal

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

erc.europa.eu > Funding > Starting Grants