Securing an ERC grant is a career-defining achievement, but the application process is exceptionally competitive. Writing a winning proposal demands deep knowledge, significant time, and strategic approach.
If you are wondering whether ERC consulting is right for you, these frequently asked questions will help you evaluate how Enspire Science can maximize your chances of success.
Why do I need consulting when applying for an ERC grant?
The ERC operates on a distinct set of “unwritten rules” that make its evaluation criteria notoriously elusive. Many researchers find writing an ERC application counter-intuitive because it differs significantly from traditional, national grant applications.
Our specialized consultants help you bridge this gap by addressing the core challenges of the ERC application:
Decoding “Excellence”: The sole evaluation criterion is excellence, which is often perceived as vague and subjective.
Mastering the Core Pillars: hypothesis-driven, investigator-driven, high risk/high-gain, and non-incremental research.
Strategic Presentation: We guide you in framing your research to match exactly what ERC reviewers expect to see.
How do I know whether I need a strategic consultation (Quick Dive) or In-depth Proposal Development (Deep Dive)?
That depends mainly on where you are in the process and what your needs are. Strategic Consultation (Quick Dive) is a focused expert intervention. It could be useful at any stage. For instance, if would like to check your fit or direction or if you have a draft of an application or a project roadmap and you need a critical feedback mid-way. In-Depth Proposal Development (Deep Dive) is a broader and more involved process. It is designed for ongoing support through the proposal development process, with attention to structure, logic, coherence and competitiveness.
Which ERC categories and scientific disciplines do you support?
We support the entire spectrum of ERC grants and scientific domains, backed by a proven track record of success across all fields:
ERC Categories: Starting Grant (StG), Consolidator Grant (CoG), Advanced Grant (AdG), Proof of Concept (PoC), Synergy Grant (SyG) and Plus.
Scientific Disciplines: Physical Sciences and Engineering (PE), Life Sciences (LS), and Social Sciences and Humanities (SH).
Do you consult on panel selection?
Yes. Choosing the right evaluation panel is highly critical, especially for multi-disciplinary or borderline proposals. Panel selection strategy is an integral component of our ERC Deep Dive.
Will you provide in-depth consulting on the science?
Our domain-specific consultants bring years of experience across diverse ERC applications, contexts and ideas. We can understand your science, speak your language, and provide a wide perspective for reference.
However, it is practically impossible to be experts in every specific scientific topic.
We may share insights, bring up questions, challenge statements and propositions – yet, you remain the ultimate expert on your research, and your peers remain an irreplaceable resource for exchanging data, scientific insights, and nuances.
What is the ERC blocking period?
If your application is rejected during Stage 1 of the evaluation process, you may face a temporary restriction on re-applying. Typically:
“B” score: Blocked from applying to the next consecutive deadline (1 year).
“C” score: Blocked from applying to the next two consecutive deadlines (2 years).
This blocking period is personal to the applicant, not the project. If you are rejected in Stage 2, no blocking period applies, and you may re-apply immediately for the next deadline.
The rules and restrictions are subject to subtle differences between ERC categories, and may change upon new Work Programme introduction.
For more information please refer to this article.
Supporting ERC Applicants Since 2007
With nearly two decades of dedicated experience, Enspire Science helps transform groundbreaking research ideas into highly competitive ERC proposals.
Ready to assess your project’s potential? reach out.