ERC applications for starters & consolidators: tips & tricks
ERC applications for starters & consolidators: tips & tricks
5 June 2025, 9h00-17h00
General context
This training provides unique ‘hands-on’ exercises on how to understand and deal with ERC terminology, s.a., high risk/high gain – feasibility and proof of concept. The training is based on ‘real’ VIB ERC applications and will allow the participants to get the "reviewers' insight" finding strengths and weaknesses based on the ERC evaluation criteria. In addition, the basics of a strong abstract and the key steps in writing proposals, including SWOT analysis and mitigation plans, will be practiced. Finally, we address the importance of the cv and track record and how to ‘pimp’ your cv to an ERC level. We will look at the track records of successful VIB ERC StG and ERC CoG winners to identify the strengths and weaknesses in our own CVs.
To provide researchers with a good understanding of:
- the ERC evaluation criteria and how the reviewers use them.
- what an excellent PI is, according to the reviewers of the different panels.
- how to write and build a strong research question and how to write a high-risk/high-gain research proposal considering panel specifics and type of project.
- How to build your CV.
We expect that this training will give you the insights to write a highly competitive grant proposal that meets the ERC standards and brings you closer to achieving your goals.
The training is highly interactive and provides all practical information on how to translate your research idea into an ERC application. You will get access to several eye-opening examples of how to improve your own proposal.
During the course, you will get feedback on your CV and a short abstract, which we will ask you to submit prior to the course. Also, discussion between participants is stimulated to exchange views.
Senior postdocs and group leaders at VIB who are looking to start or consolidate an independent research team and plan to write an ERC starting or consolidator grant application.
Trainers
Lieve Ongena
Senior Science Policy and Grants Manager
Lieve Ongena is an experienced science policy manager with deep knowledge in R&D strategy for the Biotech and Life Sciences sectors. She specializes in guiding researchers through European and international funding landscapes, with a strong track record in EU programs such as MSCA and ERC. Her approach combines strategic advisory with practical training, leveraging real-world examples to enhance research competitiveness and increased success.
Holding a PhD in Molecular Biology (Ghent University, 1989), Lieve advanced her research through European postdoctoral fellowships at Kyoto and Chiba Universities in Japan. She later served as policy advisor and business development manager at Innogenetics (now Fujirebio), one of Flanders’ pioneering biotech spin-offs, before joining VIB as a science policy advisor in 2000. Her career bridges scientific research, policy development, and cross-cultural partnerships, with a unique specialization in Japan–Europe research relations.
Elien Vandermarliere
International Grants Office Manager
Elien Vandermarliere is International Grants Office Manager at VIB, where she leads strategic support for international funding applications under Horizon Europe. She guides scientists at all career stages through highly competitive funding schemes such as ERC and MSCA, combining practical insights with strategic advice to help applicants strengthen the clarity, impact, and competitiveness of their proposals.
Elien holds a PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences from KU Leuven (2008), where she specialized in structural biology and protein crystallography. She broadened her expertise during postdoctoral research in bioinformatics and proteomics at Ghent University and VIB, contributing to research projects and mentoring students. Beyond her institutional role, Elien actively contributes to the European research community as a member of the EU-LIFE grants working group and as a reviewer for EU projects. Her unique combination of scientific expertise and funding strategy experience makes her a trusted trainer for researchers aiming to succeed in highly competitive funding landscapes.
Practical info
05 June 2025
Leuven - Park Inn by Radisson
Martelarenlaan 36
3010 Leuven
Belgium
05 June 2025
Leuven - Park Inn by Radisson
The hotel is located 300m from Leuven Central Station, just a short 5 minute walk.
05 June 2025
Leuven - Park Inn by Radisson
Using your bike for longer distances? Check Cycle Highways.
05 June 2025
Leuven - Park Inn by Radisson
Underground P1-Parking Station Leuven, Martelarenlaan 4, 3010 Leuven or parking De Bond, Martelarenlaan 18, 3010 Leuven.
05 June 2025
Leuven - Park Inn by Radisson
+32 16 61 66 02
sales.leuven@parkinn.com