ERC Starting Grant 2027: Funding for Independent Research

Scholarship Overview

The ERC Starting Grant 2027 is a high-impact funding opportunity provided by the European Research Council (ERC) under the Horizon Europe framework. It is designed for researchers who have recently started an independent research career and aim to build their own research team or programme. Applicants can secure up to €1.5 million for projects lasting up to 60 months. This grant is globally accessible and focuses on 'frontier research' across all disciplines.

Can Pakistani Students Apply?

Yes, Pakistani researchers are explicitly eligible to apply. The ERC Starting Grant is open to researchers of any nationality, regardless of their current country of residence. To participate, you must host your research project at an eligible institution located within an EU Member State or an Associated Country.

Funding and Benefits

The grant covers 100% of eligible direct costs plus a 25% flat rate for indirect costs. The base funding is €1.5 million for a five-year project. Additional funding includes up to €1 million for specific project costs, or up to €2 million for researchers relocating from outside the EU/Associated Countries to the host region.

Eligibility Criteria

You must hold a PhD or equivalent doctoral degree. The standard eligibility window includes candidates who defended their first PhD between 1 January 2017 and 31 December 2026. You must demonstrate potential for independence, such as being listed as a main author on key publications. You are required to commit at least 50% of your working time to the project.

Required Documents

Applications must include the Administrative Form (Part A), the Scientific Proposal (Parts I and II), a CV and Track Record, a Host Institution Support Letter, and an Ethics Issues Table. All materials must follow the official ERC templates.

Application Timeline

• Opening Date: 22 July 2026
• Submission Deadline: 14 October 2026, 17:00 Brussels time
• Step 1 Result Notification: Expected 11 May 2027
• Step 2 Result Notification: Expected 24 August 2027

Selection Process

Reviewers use a two-step evaluation process based on 'excellence'. Step 1 evaluates Part I, the CV, and the Track Record. Step 2 involves a full proposal review and an interview with the Principal Investigator.

How to Apply

Applications are submitted via the EU Funding & Tenders Portal. Start by confirming your eligibility, selecting an eligible host institution, and preparing your scientific proposal according to the official guidelines.

Pakistan-Specific Application Advice

Ensure your host institution is fully committed to the grant duration. If you are currently based in Pakistan, ensure you plan your relocation well in advance, as the grant requires you to conduct your project within an EU or Associated country.

Important Terms and Limitations

A researcher can only be the Principal Investigator of one ERC Starting Grant. Projects must be hosted in an EU Member State or an Associated Country; research carried out solely outside these regions is generally not supported.