Key evaluation challenges

Because the ERC Plus is a new, exceptionally competitive scheme, expectations are extremely high. Based on the current information, proposals will be scrutinised particularly on the following aspects:

Clear justification for ERC Plus scope

The proposal must convincingly explain why the project cannot be supported under other ERC schemes (StG/CoG/AdG/SyG)

Transformative ambition
The project must go beyond excellence and demonstrate true paradigm-shifting potential

Feasibility at scale
The research plan must be robust and credible, fully aligned with the scope, duration, and funding level requested

Leadership positioning
The PI’s track record and leadership narrative must clearly match the exceptional ambition of the project. Past achievements will carry greater weight than in regular ERC calls

Narrative clarity
The proposal must present a clear, strategic, and compelling vision from the very first page

How we can help you maximise your chances of success

We analyse how well your proposal addresses the following critical points:

Transformative potential
Your project addresses a major scientific challenge that cannot be realised through any other existing funding schemes and is truly transformative.

Justification for ERC Plus status
You clearly explain why your idea falls outside the scope of standard ERC grants.

Vision and ambition
The scientific vision is bold, coherent, and strategically articulated.

Feasibility and research plan
The methodology and work plan are logically structured, robust, and aligned with the project’s novelty and scale.

Career stage & leadership
Your track record and leadership are well-articulated, demonstrating independence, influence, and the scientific maturity in line with your career stage.

Risk positioning
Potential risks are identified realistically and supported by strong contingency strategies.

Text flow
The proposal is well-structured, easy to follow, and presents a coherent strategic argument.

More generally…

We also assess interdisciplinarity, originality, internal coherence, and the overall positioning of your proposal within the broader ERC landscape of frontier research.