We are delighted to share the success of the study visit organized by the Polish Science Contact Agency „PolSCA” of the Polish Academy of Sciences in Brussels, in collaboration with the Excellence in Science Department of the Polish Academy of Sciences (Biuro Doskonałości Naukowej, BDN PAN). This remarkable event took place from November 22-24, 2023, attracting participants from distinguished Polish research organizations eager to develop their knowledge and understanding of ERC grants and increase the capacity of their organizations in applying for those prestigious funding schemes.
We are delighted to share the success of the study visit organized by the Polish Science Contact Agency “PolSCA” of the Polish Academy of Sciences in Brussels, in collaboration with the Excellence in Science Department of the Polish Academy of Sciences (Biuro Doskonałości Naukowej, BDN PAN). This remarkable event took place from November 22-24, 2023, attracting participants from distinguished Polish research organizations eager to develop their knowledge and understanding of ERC grants and increase the capacity of their organizations in applying for those prestigious funding schemes.
The study visit was designed to enhance the potential of Polish research organizations by providing valuable insights into ERC grants, which stand as the pinnacle of European funding for outstanding frontier research. The focus was on ERCEA, the body responsible for implementing the European Research Council’s strategy and overseeing day-to-day grant administration.
The study visit unfolded over three days, with the first day dedicated to best practices in higher education and research organizations. The subsequent two days were focused on ERCEA’s work. In addition, participants had the unique chance to connect with representatives from liaison offices in Brussels associated in IGLO, informal group of liaison offices, and with members of grant offices at Belgian higher education and research-performing organizations. This fostered meaningful exchanges and potential collaborations.
The study visit was tailored for individuals representing research organization management, including scientific directors and advisors, or research and administration managers involved in international cooperation (RMAs). Notably, this event was not intended for researchers or ERC grant applicants. Participants represented following institutions:
- Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, PAS
- Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, PAS
- Institute of Archaeology and Ethnology, PAS
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, PAS
- Institute of Philosophy and Sociology, PAS
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, PAS
- Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, PAS
- Institute of Physical Chemistry, PAS
- International Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology in Warsaw
- IMol International Institute of Molecular Mechanisms and Machines, PAS
- Jagiellonian University
- Wrocław University of Science and Technology
- University of Warsaw
- Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń
- Adam Mickiewiucz University in Poznań
- AGH University of Science and Technology
First day of the study visit was devoted to a visit at Ghent University, where members of EU Team set the stage with an overview of the university’s structure and talent management policies, share their expertise in supporting ERC applicants and sparked engaging discussions, paving the way for potential collaborations.
Later at KoWi premises, representatives of the German liaison office shared best practices of ERC support, setting the tone for fruitful discussions and networking opportunities. The meeting provided a favorable atmosphere for collaborative exchanges, laying the foundation for the days ahead.
Two following days two at the European Research Council Executive Agency (ERCEA) were information packed. Expert-led sessions covered topics from ERC’s history and structure to evaluation procedures and IT systems, and brought a deeper understanding of ERC’s Scientific Council, mentoring initiatives, or communication. There was also a short visit to the Kafatos ERC Evaluation Facilities, offering an inside look into ERC’s evaluation processes.
Participants were treated to a comprehensive exploration of various aspects related to ERC grants:
- ERC History and Structure: A deep dive into the roots and organizational framework of the European Research Council.
- ERC Evaluation Procedure: Understanding the process of evaluating proposals to ensure excellence in frontier research.
- Ethical Considerations in ERC: Delving into the ethical dimensions that guide ERC-funded research.
- Granting Procedure and Facilities Visit: Exploring the practical aspects of ERCEA’s work, including on-site visits to facilities.
- ERC Scientific Council: Insights into the decision-making body that plays a crucial role in shaping ERC’s strategic direction.
- Project Monitoring: Understanding how ERC ensures the successful execution and progress of funded projects.
- ERC Mentoring Initiative: Exploring initiatives aimed at fostering mentorship within the ERC community.
- IT Systems and Data Protection in ERC: A glimpse into the technological infrastructure and data protection measures in place.
- Monitoring and Evaluation of ERC Achievements: Assessing the impact and success of ERC-funded endeavors.
- ERC Communication: Insights into how ERC communicates its mission and achievements to the wider audience.
The European Research Council Executive Agency (ERCEA) plays a pivotal role in managing ERC calls and grants. From welcoming words to in-depth sessions led by ERC experts, ERCEA provided a holistic understanding of ERC’s functioning. The visit not only enhanced our knowledge but also fostered connections that will undoubtedly shape future collaborations within the dynamic landscape of European research and innovation.
As we reflect on this enriching experience, we extend our gratitude to our hosts and anticipate future collaborations that will bring together the research communities within the EU research & innovation framework programme.
For further inquiries, please contact Magdalena Dobrzyńska, R&I policy expert at PolSCA.
