ERC Calls are evolving: Key changes in ERC 2026 Work Programme

By Ksenia Bagrintseva, Senior Grant Writer & ERC Expert

Thinking of applying for an ERC grant? Here’s what’s changing this year – please read carefully. 

1. Grant application: The structure remains the same, but the length and proposal content requirements are changing. Part B1 (Extended Synopsis, 5 pages): Focus on the project’s overall idea, state of the art and your contribution to the field, scientific question, objectives and research strategy. Part B2: Now limited to 7 pages (Starting, Consolidator, Advanced) and 10 pages (Synergy). Must include methodology, work plan, risk mitigating, budget, and any further necessary background not included in Part I. Synergy Grants must also describe collaborative arrangements. 

2. Evaluation: Step 1 evaluates Part I, CV and Track Record (Part B1), Step 2 - full proposal evaluation (Parts B1 and B2, Resources and Time Commitment). Focus on Step 1 will be the ambition and potential of the idea. Only convincing proposals will be invited to Step 2. Feasibility will no longer be explicitly assessed at Step 1. 

3. Additional funding: Researchers outside Europe can now request up to €2M for relocation (Starting, Consolidator, Advanced). Applicants already based in EU/associated countries remain eligible for up to € M. Synergy Grant applicants can still request up to €4M.  From 2026, additional funds can also cover personnel costs. Proposals must justify any request. 

4. New funding instrument: The ERC is developing a new 7-year funding scheme under Choose Europe for Science initiative. Details will be published in the amended ERC Work Programme 2026 by the end of 2025. 

 5. Eligibility of applicants (Starting and Consolidator Grants): Extensions to eligibility periods will be granted for victims of gender-based violence or other violence.  Parental leave will now be explicitly listed as a valid reason for extension alongside maternity/paternity leave.  

 6. Resubmission restrictions: Synergy Grant applicants with a ‘B’ in Step 1 of the 2025 call cannot apply again in 2026. Applicants with ongoing ERC grants can apply in 2026 only if their current project ends within two years of the call deadline. Extensions granted after the call deadline will not affect eligibility. 

 Looking Ahead to the 2027 Work Programme: In the 2027 ERC Work programme the eligibility window will be extended for Starting Grant: from PhD defense up to 10 years and Consolidator Grant: from 5 to 15 years post-PhD. However, only one StG and one CoG per career will be granted. 

The new ERC Work Program will be published with more details in July 2025; we will keep you informed. Do not hesitate to contact us to get more information:  ksenia.bagrintseva[at]pasteur.fr