The mERCury network of national contact points, operating under the European Research Council (ERC), is organizing an online information session for researchers interested in the ERC Starting Grant. The webinar will guide participants from the creation of a truly “breakthrough” idea to an understanding of the European Research Council’s evaluation process.
Date: June 26, 2026
Time: 10:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Location: online
Registration: Registration is required for this event, REGISTRATION.
The program will feature presentations by ERC grant holders and an ERC ambassador, who will explain what makes a Starting Grant project “ERC-level.” An ERC researcher will explain in detail the proposal structure, requirements for the track record, and the evaluation process. The program will also include a discussion with members of the ERC panels. The discussion will focus on how the scientific independence of the applicant (Principal Investigator) is assessed, what is most highly valued in proposals, and, conversely, what the most common mistakes and weaknesses are.
ERC Starting Grants support researchers at the beginning of their scientific careers in conducting independent research or establishing their own research team. Principal investigators must demonstrate the potential for independence in research, for example, by publishing significant work as the lead author without the involvement of a supervisor. The maximum amount of funding is up to 1.5 million EUR over a 5-year period. An ERC grant covers up to 100% of total eligible direct research costs and 25% of total eligible indirect costs.
Source: MERCURY