Deadline: 30-Apr-2026
The ERCL-GREAT Grants 2026, offered by European Research College London, provide up to £180,000 per year for 4–5 years to outstanding researchers. The programme supports innovative projects in Economics, Business Studies, and Psychological Sciences with strong academic and societal impact. It targets early to mid-career researchers aiming to establish independent research careers in London.
The ERCL-GREAT (Grants for Researchers Exceeding Ambitious Targets) scheme is a prestigious funding programme designed to attract top international researchers to London.
Core Objective
To support investigator-driven, high-impact research while strengthening the academic environment at European Research College London.
Strategic Research Areas
The 2026 call focuses on two priority fields:
1. Economics and Business Studies
- Economic policy and analysis
- Business innovation and management
- Financial systems and global markets
2. Psychological and Learning Sciences
- Cognitive and behavioral research
- Educational psychology
- Learning systems and human development
Key Research Expectations
Projects must demonstrate:
- Excellence and originality
- Strong methodological design
- Clear academic and societal impact
Funding Details
- Funding Amount: Up to £180,000 per year
- Duration: 4–5 years
- Total Potential Funding: Up to £900,000
- Additional Benefits:
- Access to advanced research facilities
- Long-term institutional support
- Integration into London’s academic ecosystem
What Makes ERCL-GREAT Unique?
Long-Term Research Support
Provides sustained funding for ambitious, multi-year projects.
Focus on Research Independence
Encourages researchers to lead their own projects and build independent careers.
High Impact Orientation
Prioritizes research that delivers both:
- Academic contributions
- Real-world societal benefits
Who is Eligible?
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
Academic Qualifications
- PhD awarded within the last 10 years
- Extensions allowed for:
- Parental leave
- Caregiving responsibilities
Research Track Record
- Strong evidence of excellence through:
- High-quality publications
- Invited talks
- International research engagement
Professional Experience
- Experience in:
- Designing and leading research projects
- Collaborative or interdisciplinary work
Funding Experience
- Prior involvement in competitive research funding, either:
- As a lead applicant
- As part of a research team
Personal Attributes
- Scientific independence
- Research leadership potential
- Methodological rigor
Why This Grant Matters
Advances Scientific Knowledge
- Supports cutting-edge research in key disciplines
Builds Research Careers
- Helps researchers establish independent academic profiles
Encourages Innovation
- Funds ambitious ideas with transformative potential
Strengthens Global Collaboration
- Attracts international talent to London
How the ERCL-GREAT Scheme Works
Step 1: Proposal Development
- Design a research project aligned with ERCL priorities
Step 2: Submission
- Submit a detailed proposal including:
- Research objectives
- Methodology
- Expected outcomes
Step 3: Evaluation
- Applications assessed based on:
- Scientific excellence
- Innovation
- Impact potential
Step 4: Selection
- Top candidates selected for funding
Step 5: Project Implementation
- Researchers begin their projects with ERCL support
How to Apply
Follow these steps for a successful application:
Step 1: Check Eligibility
- Confirm PhD timeline and research experience
Step 2: Define Your Research Idea
- Ensure alignment with:
- Economics and Business Studies OR
- Psychological and Learning Sciences
Step 3: Prepare Proposal Documents
Include:
- Research proposal
- CV and publication list
- Evidence of prior funding experience
Step 4: Highlight Impact
- Clearly demonstrate:
- Academic contribution
- Societal relevance
Step 5: Submit Application
- Follow official ERCL submission guidelines
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Lack of alignment with ERCL strategic areas
- Weak or unclear research methodology
- Insufficient evidence of independence
- Overly ambitious but unrealistic project scope
- Limited demonstration of societal impact
Pro Tips for Success
- Focus on originality and feasibility
- Show leadership and independence
- Provide a clear implementation plan
- Highlight interdisciplinary potential
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the ERCL-GREAT scheme?
A research funding programme supporting high-impact, investigator-led projects in selected fields.
2. How much funding is available?
Up to £180,000 per year for 4–5 years.
3. Who can apply?
Early to mid-career researchers with a PhD obtained within the last 10 years.
4. What fields are supported?
Economics and Business Studies, and Psychological and Learning Sciences.
5. Is prior funding experience required?
Yes, applicants must have experience with competitive research funding.
6. Can career breaks affect eligibility?
Yes, extensions are allowed for parental or caregiving responsibilities.
7. What type of projects are prioritized?
Innovative, high-quality research with strong academic and societal impact.
Conclusion
The ERCL-GREAT Grants 2026 offer a powerful platform for ambitious researchers to advance their careers and produce impactful research.
For more information, visit ERCL.
