To support researchers in developing a new, independent and high-quality research team or in strengthening recently founded research teams
Requirements
Two to ten years of post-doc experience at the time of the announcement of the call (July 20, 2011). Child care leave, military or civil service as well as long-term illnesses are also taken into consideration. In total, however, no more than 16.5 years may have passed since the conferral of the (first) Ph.D.
No age limit
No restrictions regarding nationality or current place of residence
Support through a host institution in an EU member state or in an EU-associated state.
The applicant may fund his/her own salary using the ERC grant.
Academic independence
A top-notch research project in the field of basic research ("frontier research")
Applicant's potential to carry out research at the highest international level.
Deadlines
Physical Science and Engineering: October 12, 2011, 17:00h
Life Sciences: November 9, 2011, 17:00h
Social Sciences & Humanities: November 24, 2011, 17:00h
Duration
Up to 5 years
Grant amounts
Usually up to EUR 1.5 million for five years (up to EUR 2 million may be granted in certain cases; see Guide for Applicants), including a contribution to indirect costs (no more than 20% of direct costs)
Applications
Only via the Web-based Electronic Proposal Submission System (EPSS)
Detailed information on submitting applications can be found in the Guide for Applicants and in the EPSS preparation and submission guide (see link above).
Pre-registration is required in order to receive a login ID and password.
One-step application procedure
Selection
Two-stage evaluation process: In the first stage, the applicant's scientific achievements as well as a brief summary of the planned activities are evaluated by the expert panels. The second stage comprises a detailed review of the research project and involves external experts.
