December 3, 2025Open Access

ERC-Plus: jackpot science or missed chance to fix academia?

Key Points

ERC-Plus funding model suggests mixed implications for the academic culture in Europe, raising concerns over accessibility.
The competitive nature of ERC-Plus leads to a significant challenge, reflected in its low 0.5% success rate.
Observational analysis highlights funding dynamics that may limit opportunities for researchers at various career stages.
The culture of funding through ERC-Plus may require reevaluation to better balance high-risk projects with inclusivity.

Abstract

My reflections on ERC-Plus, Europe’s newest ultra-competitive research grant and what it tells us about the academic culture we’re building. The European Research Council (ERC) has long been a gold standard for scientific excellence — funding bold high-risk / high-gain ideas and ambitious scientists across career stages. So when news broke of ERC-Plus, a new €7 million mega-grant scheme “for projects that go beyond,” I was curious. Then I did the math. And like many colleagues, I started asking questions. This post gathers my reflections — part appreciation, part concern — on what ERC-Plus might mean for the research ecosystem in Europe. First, credit where it’s due But then the numbers hit… A 0.5% success rate is not a badge of honor “Open to all career stages” — but really? ERC used to lead on culture. What happened? Final thoughts: more money, wrong model

ERC-Plus: jackpot science or missed chance to fix academia?

Key Points

Abstract

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