How researchers and higher education institutions can increase the chances of ERC support

The number of applications for research grants from the ERC is markedly lower in humanities and social sciences than in other research fields in Sweden. On the other hand, women and men apply to the same extent, while the gender difference is greater in other research fields.

The interviews that we have carried out show that general knowledge about the ERC is often lacking. Many researchers are asking for support and clear information about the preconditions for applying and for career planning. Lack of research time at work and uncertainty about what applies in relation to indirect costs are some factors that may contribute to researchers choosing not to apply for ERC grants. Here are some of the proposals in the report, which also includes proposals for other actors:

For researchers

• Plan your career. Make sure the planning also includes your choice of co-authors and language for publications.
• Ask for help from the HEI’s support unit, or from NCP if there is no support unit.
• Find out what applies in relation to indirect costs at the HEI, and what administrative and financial support the HEI can offer.
• Re-apply. Most of the people who get ERC grants have applied more than once. To make sure there is time to apply more than once, apply early and do not wait until the last possible year to apply for StG and CoG.

For higher education institutions

• Produce a clear strategy for ERC grants at the HEI. The strategy needs to include aspects such as employment forms, the handling of indirect costs, and researchers’ access to administrative support. It is important that the strategy creates good incentives for researchers and departments.
• Inform the researchers about the HEI’s strategy for ERC grants.
• Support and build up good research environments.
• Consider whether the way the HEI uses the employment form associate senior lecturer should be included as part of the strategy for ERC grants at the HEI.
• Highlight local examples.
• Work actively on disseminating information issued by the NCP and ERC.
• Create and use alumni networks and mentorships.
• Offer language checking of applications to the ERC.