This funding initiative is part of the EU's Horizon Europe programme, which is designed to empower senior researchers to pursue ambitious projects that could lead to significant scientific advancements.

As part of its strategy to attract top global researchers, the ERC is increasing the additional funding for new grantees setting up their labs from €1 million to €2 million, effective for the upcoming 2025 Advanced Grant competition.

Despite the recognition of many innovative projects, Prof. Maria Leptin, President of the ERC, noted that around 260 proposals were left unfunded due to budget constraints.

The recent competition attracted a total of 2,534 proposals, with over 11% selected for funding, highlighting the competitive nature of the process and the potential to create approximately 2,700 jobs within the research teams of the awarded projects.

Grants will be distributed to researchers based in 23 EU Member States and associated countries, with notable concentrations in the UK (56 grants), Germany (35), Italy (25), the Netherlands (24), and France (23).

The European Research Council (ERC) has announced a substantial funding allocation of €721 million for innovative research projects across Europe, aiming to establish the continent as a leading hub for scientific excellence.

Researchers interested in the 2025 ERC Advanced Grant competition must submit their applications by August 28, 2025.

The funded research projects will cover a wide range of topics, including the development of a preventive vaccine for hereditary breast cancer, the impact of diet and exercise on aging brain cells, the creation of AI digital twins, and the exploration of hidden oceans on the moons of Jupiter and Saturn.

Research Commissioner Ekaterina Zaharieva emphasized the significance of these grants in positioning Europe as a leader in research and underscored their role in fostering future scientific prosperity and resilience.

Currently, Switzerland is negotiating its association with Horizon Europe; however, no grants will be awarded to Swiss institutions under the 2024 call due to existing agreement limitations.