No stricter rules for European research grant applications

European scientists can apply to the ERC for various research grants, such as Starting Grants (up to €1.5 million), Consolidator Grants (€2 million) and Advanced Grants (€2.5 million). Teams of two to four leading researchers can also jointly apply for a Synergy Grant.

Competition for these grants is intense. However, the Netherlands often performs well: almost eighteen per cent of applications are successful – the highest rate within the EU. At the same time, the total number of grant applications across Europe is growing rapidly.

Last year alone, nearly four thousand applications were submitted for Starting Grants, which are aimed at early-career researchers. Ten years ago, that figure was still around three thousand. Consolidator Grants, intended for more established researchers, have also seen an increase: from roughly two thousand applications a decade ago to more than three thousand last year.

Reducing workload

According to the ERC, this is creating problems: there are not enough reviewers to assess the proposals thoroughly. To reduce the workload, the council therefore wanted to limit the number of applications by introducing stricter rules.

For example, researchers whose applications were rejected would have had to wait an extra year before being allowed to apply again. However, the proposal was met with criticism, and the ERC has now largely dropped the stricter measures.

Unequal distribution

The ERC has not explained exactly what the criticism of the new rules was. It may be related to the already unequal distribution of grants across Europe. Countries in Central and Eastern Europe in particular secure far fewer grants.

Polish scientist Leszek Kaczmarek, chair of the ERC working group that advocates broader European participation, recently warned about these large disparities.

Gap

Dutch researchers are often highly experienced in writing grant applications. For years, they have applied to the Dutch Research Council (NWO) for funding. If applicants from less successful countries – who often have less experience – are forced to wait longer for a second chance, the gap could widen even further.

For the time being, the stricter rules will only be introduced for Synergy Grants, which are intended for larger international collaborative projects. The rules for all other grants (Starting, Consolidator, Advanced and ERC Plus) will remain unchanged.

HOP, Naomi Bergshoeff