The European Research Council (ERC) and the Association of ERC Grantees (AERG) launched the new Ambassadors for the ERC network on 28 April 2025. This joint initiative aims to promote investment in frontier research and highlight the importance of research by explaining how it benefits the economy and society.
Thirty-two ERC grantees have been selected and nominated as Ambassadors for the ERC. Among them are 17 women and 15 men from 21 EU Member States as well as five Associated Countries - Israel, Norway, Switzerland, Turkey and the UK. The new ambassadors work across various domains, from life sciences to social sciences and humanities, to physical sciences and engineering.
‘I hope the ambassadors will become recognisable faces of ERC-funded research. This network has great potential to advocate effectively for frontier research across Europe. Together, we must keep reminding our fellow citizens why funding frontier research is not optional, and why it is essential for Europe's long-term health and prosperity,’ said Maria Leptin, President of the ERC.
‘We were delighted to see the high level of interest for this new initiative and the scientific diversity of applicants for this first selection. The results highlight a strong resonance and belief in the mission,’ said Axel Cleeremans, President of the AERG.
Following a call for expression of interest to all ERC grantees, the AERG received over 200 applications, from which 57 applicants were interviewed. The selection process was based on balancing current grant holders’ gender and seniority.
The Ambassadors for the ERC will serve as influential advocates for frontier research in Europe, engaging with policymakers, the media, and local research communities to promote and safeguard its value. They will work together with the ERC National Contact Points (NCPs), who have a primary role in providing guidance, practical information and assistance to local researchers in their own language, on all aspects related to Horizon Europe.
The mandate of the ambassadors is for one year with a possible renewal of up to six times based on the expression of interest. The AERG and the ERC hope to expand the Ambassadors for the ERC network in the future to include more EU Member States and Associated Countries.
