ERC pioneers by FBK | 2027

Introduction

FBK is a world-class institute, and as such, it is essential that it fosters breakthrough research and continues to be a research institution that is leading the wave, rather than riding the wave – a hotbed of cutting-edge, frontier, and disruptive ideas. The internal “ERC ideas” call is closely aligned with the 2024-2027 FBK Strategic Plan.

A reasonable indicator of breakthrough research capacity is success in securing European Research Council (ERC) awards.

With this call, FBK’s leadership aims to promote breakthrough research within the institute and to encourage the submission of ERC proposals.

We will organize a coaching program for those interested in applying for ERC grants, whether for a Starting Grant, a Consolidator Grant, or an Advanced Grant.

The following people may participate in the Call: researchers of the Foundation, both on open- ended and fixed-term contracts, of every level and job classification.

You are invited to submit your breakthrough idea in the form of a 1-page pitch of the breakthrough idea and a short CV up to two pages (all PDF format), including:

• personal details,
• h-index
• education,
• key qualifications,
• current position(s) and relevant previous positions,
• a list of up to 5 publications in top-level conferences or journals that demonstrate how the applicant has advanced knowledge to carry out the proposed ERC idea

The application for participation must be sent by 5 p.m. on July 15, 2026, via EasyChair at the following address: https://easychair.org/my/conference?conf=ercfbk2027

Submitted ideas will be evaluated by external experts—former ERC panel members and/or successful ERC grantees. Applicants will be notified of the outcome by 30 September 2026. The Selection Committee reserves the right to request any additional documentation necessary for the evaluation and will set a deadline for its submission.

A two-day workshop will be held at the beginning of 2027, during which participants will present their ideas in plenary sessions. Peers and experts will provide feedback.

The workshop will include joint sessions for all panels and grant types, as well as separate sessions dedicated to the different panels.

During this coaching program, we will coach participants willing to submit their ERC Grant application on the following deadlines:

• ERC Advanced Grant: August 2027
• ERC Starting Grant: October 2027
• ERC Consolidator Grant: January 2028
  
  

Individual coaching will be provided to help finalize and submit proposals to the appropriate ERC call, based on the following deadlines:

Participant Obligations:
Admitted candidates must:

• Attend all training activities
• Use the training to refine their ERC proposals
• Meet program deadlines
• Actively participate in workshops

 
Additional Notes:

• Updates will be shared via FBK’s internal site and official channels.
• Questions can be emailed to [email protected] .