The European Research Council (ERC) and the Association of ERC Grantees (AERG) launched exciting joint initiative 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 appointed 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. 

‘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.    

Prof Mona Simion (ERC StG Grantee), Co-Director of the COGITO Epistemology Research Centre in the College of Arts and Humanities, has been appointed Ambassador for the European Research Council (ERC) to the UK. 

“I am deeply honoured to be appointed to this position, which will give me the opportunity to advocate for fundamental science in Europe," said Prof Simion.

Ambassadors will advocate for frontier research through talks, conferences, and media engagement, often in collaboration with National Contact Points (NCPs) and the AERG. 

The network invites ERC Grantees to reinforce the ERC’s vision, particularly ahead of the next Framework Programme for Research and Innovation (FP10). 

You can read more on AERG in here.

Press release

First published: 1 May 2025

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