ERC calls for stronger action to close Europe’s research performance gap

The European Research Council (ERC) has issued a white paper urging stronger, coordinated action to close Europe’s persistent research performance gap. The report focuses on 'Widening Countries'. Although these countries account for about 25% of the EU’s population, their researchers obtain only around 5% of ERC grants, with success rates between 1% and 7%, far below the ERC average of roughly 11%. According to the paper, this imbalance stems from structural barriers such as underfunded research systems, less supportive academic environments, weaker international networks and limited assistance in preparing competitive proposals, as well as language and cultural obstacles.

At the same time, the report highlights signs of improvement. Over the past decade, several widening countries have strengthened national research systems and introduced programmes designed to help researchers apply for ERC funding. More than 15 countries now operate dedicated support schemes, including programmes that provide national funding for highly ranked ERC proposals that were not funded at European level. These initiatives are financed through a variety of sources, including national budgets, public-private partnerships, EU Structural Funds, and the Recovery and Resilience Facility. 

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