ERC Stage

The National Contact Point at NCBR is organising ERC sessions during Copernicus Festival 2026.

On May 19–20, a two-day programme devoted to groundbreaking research, scientific career paths, and the ERC evaluation process will take place. The event will provide an opportunity to meet ERC grantees and experts who will share their experience in preparing ambitious research projects.

The programme is addressed to researchers interested in applying for ERC grants, as well as to all festival participants wishing to better understand what groundbreaking research means, how to build a project around a strong scientific question, and what role CV and scientific track record play in the evaluation process.

On May 19, the sessions will focus on Science and Groundbreaking Research. The programme will include panel discussions devoted to the meaning of groundbreaking research, as well as expert talks showing how to build an ERC project around a strong and original research question.

On May 20, the focus will shift to Career Paths, devoted to different paths leading to ERC grants. Participants will have the opportunity to hear the stories of ERC grantees and experts and to take part in a discussion on the role of academic achievements and career path in the ERC evaluation process. The programme will also conclude with a session dedicated to the LIDER UP programme as an opportunity to support the development of young researchers’ competencies.