European Research Council (ERC) Fellowships 2025

Description

If you are a researcher aiming to undertake ground-breaking, high-risk research in Europe, the European Research Council (ERC) Fellowships provide an exceptional opportunity. Funded under Horizon Europe, ERC grants are recognized globally as a hallmark of academic excellence and are awarded solely based on the scientific quality of the researcher and their proposal.

Unlike many other research grants, ERC funding does not require proof of immediate impact. Instead, it emphasizes high-risk, high-reward research, encouraging scientific breakthroughs that can drive long-term societal or industrial transformations.

Why Choose an ERC Fellowship?

ERC Fellowships offer a unique platform for researchers to pursue independent, curiosity-driven research. These fellowships are among the most competitive research funding opportunities in Europe, with a focus on advancing knowledge across all disciplines.

Key reasons to apply for an ERC Fellowship:

1. Prestige and global recognition for both the researcher and host institution
2. Flexible project implementation, supporting changes to research scope during the grant period
3. Career-boosting opportunities to attract world-class researchers and collaborations
4. 100% funding of direct costs, plus 25% reimbursement of indirect costs

Degree Level

European Research Council (ERC) Fellowships 2025 is available to undertake Fellowship level programs at .

Available Subjects

Following subject are available to study under this scholarship program.

Benefits

Types of ERC Grants (2025)

ERC offers several funding schemes tailored to different career stages:

1. Starting Grant (StG): For early-career researchers with 2–7 years of experience post-PhD
2. Consolidator Grant (CoG): For researchers with 7–12 years of experience post-PhD
3. Advanced Grant (AdG): For established researchers with a proven track record of significant achievements
4. Synergy Grant (Sick): For groups of 2–4 PIs addressing complex research questions together
5. Proof of Concept Grant (PoC): For existing ERC grant holders aiming to commercialize their research

Funding Structure

ERC Fellowships follow the Horizon Europe reimbursement model:

1. 100% of eligible direct costs (e.g., salaries, equipment, travel)
2. 25% flat rate for indirect costs
3. Budget caps depend on the scheme (e.g., Starting Grants up to €1.5M over 5 years, with top-ups possible)

UK & Post-Brexit Participation

Despite Brexit, UK-based researchers remain eligible for ERC funding under Horizon Europe, thanks to the UK’s association with Horizon Europe. The University of Leedsfor instance, has already secured 42 ERC Fellowships across its faculties and maintains a higher-than-average success rate.

Eligible Nationalities

Open to applicants of all nationalities.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for ERC funding, you must:

1. Propose a high-risk/high-reward research project
2. Demonstrate academic excellence and a solid track record for your career stage
3. Submit via the Funding & Tenders Portal
4. Meet the eligibility window post-PhD for your selected grant type
5. Be affiliated with a host institution (which could be in any EU Member State or associated country)

Important Note: Proposals that fail at Stage 1 may face a one- or two-call resubmission restrictiondepending on the score received.

Application Procedure

Applying for an ERC Grant in 2025 involves two major stages:

1. Stage 1 – Panel Review:
2. Submit an extended synopsis and CV/track record
3. Reviewed by a generalist panel in your subject area
4. Around 22–25% of applications proceed to Stage 2
5. Stage 2 – Full Proposal and Interview:
6. Includes detailed research plan and personal interview
7. Evaluated by both panelists and external peer reviewers
8. About 40% of Stage 2 applicants receive funding

Overall success rate for ERC individual schemes is 12–14%while Proof of Concept grants enjoy ~30% success, and Synergy Grants are more competitive at 5–8%.

Final Thoughts

ERC Fellowships remain one of the most prestigious EU research funding schemes in 2025. Whether you’re an early-career academic or a senior researcher, ERC grants provide both the resources and recognition to pursue your boldest ideas. With flexible funding, a rigorous yet fair evaluation process, and unparalleled prestige, the ERC offers a transformative path for visionary researchers.

FAQs

1. Do I need to show immediate impact for my ERC proposal?

No. ERC focuses on academic excellence and breakthrough research potential, not immediate impact.

2. Can researchers in the UK still apply for ERC Grants post-Brexit?

Yes. The UK is associated with Horizon Europe, and UK researchers are fully eligible.

3. Is it possible to change the direction of my research after winning the ERC Grant?

Yes. The ERC allows flexibility in implementation to accommodate developments in your research field.

For more information, visit the European Research Council page