Basics of ERC Synergy Grant Preparation
11/06/2025
About
The Synergy Grants (SyG) from the European Research Council (ERC) are a unique funding opportunity for highly ambitious research projects designed for small groups of outstanding applicants across all scientific disciplines. These grants provide generous funding for groundbreaking research projects lasting up to six years.
Understanding the essential characteristics of ERC SyG projects, developing the initial project idea accordingly, and carefully selecting potential SyG group members are all crucial steps toward a successful application. During our seminar, “Basics of ERC Synergy Grant Preparation”, we share our extensive experience as grant consultants to guide participants in developing their project ideas to maximise their chances of success.
The seminar covers the essential elements of ERC SyG projects and provides important insights into designing the group, which needs to reflect the often multidisciplinary nature of SyG projects. We discuss the ERC evaluation process and break down the official evaluation criterion, “Scientific Excellence.” By providing critical input at the pre-writing stage, this seminar will help prospective ERC SyG grant applicants transform their scientific ideas into standout proposals.
Agenda
For whom?
For any researcher considering applying for ERC SyG. Program managers and grant officers are also welcome to attend.
Understanding the essential characteristics of ERC SyG projects, developing the initial project idea accordingly, and carefully selecting potential SyG group members are all crucial steps toward a successful application. During our seminar, “Basics of ERC Synergy Grant Preparation”, we share our extensive experience as grant consultants to guide participants in developing their project ideas to maximise their chances of success.
The seminar covers the essential elements of ERC SyG projects and provides important insights into designing the group, which needs to reflect the often multidisciplinary nature of SyG projects. We discuss the ERC evaluation process and break down the official evaluation criterion, “Scientific Excellence.” By providing critical input at the pre-writing stage, this seminar will help prospective ERC SyG grant applicants transform their scientific ideas into standout proposals.
Agenda
- What is and What is not an ERC SyG project?
- Tips for designing a competitive SyG group (the consortium)
- Key aspects of the submission process
- Breaking down the evaluation criterion “Scientific excellence”
- Q&A
For whom?
For any researcher considering applying for ERC SyG. Program managers and grant officers are also welcome to attend.
Should you have any questions about the event, please contact us at events@crowdhelix.com
Date & Time
June 11, 2025 at 11 am - 12:30 pm CEST
Register Today
Speakers
Malte Beringer
Grant Consultant and Trainer @ Sciencepoint.eu
Malte holds a PhD in Biochemistry with over 15 years of professional experience in the molecular life sciences. His expertise lies in strategic grant consulting and scientific proposal review, enabling scientists and institutions—primarily in the life sciences—to secure competitive funding. Since 2018, Malte has specialized in European ERC grants, one of the most prestigious and competitive European funding schemes. In the community, he is also known as the “ERC whisperer”, due to his track record in guiding candidates toward developing successful ERC grant applications. His consulting portfolio also includes collaborative proposals under Horizon 2020/HEurope and national funding programs. Malte combines his deep scientific knowledge with strategic communication skills to empower researchers to achieve their funding goals. To date, Malte has helped researchers secure over €50 million in funding.
Stewe Bekk
Grant Consultant and Trainer @ Bekk Research Support
Stewe is a seasoned Grant Consultant with over a decade of experience working at prestigious research institutes in Barcelona, including IDIBAPS, ICN2, and ICFO. In 2020, he founded his own consultancy, dedicated to providing comprehensive ERC grant preparation services, particularly for the physical sciences and engineering communities. Specializing in reviewing and editing research proposals, Stewe has consulted on more than 400 ERC projects, developing a deep understanding of what makes a proposal stand out. His expertise has contributed to the success of numerous ERC applications, making him a trusted advisor for ERC aspirants.
