How to write part 2 of your ERC proposal - CHECK ERC WORK PROGRAMME 2025 FOR CHANGES
Understanding Part B2 of ERC Proposals
Introduction to Part B2
- Anna Nilsson introduces herself as a scientific officer at the European Research Council, focusing on social sciences and humanities.
- The video aims to provide insights into writing part B2 of an ERC proposal, following previous discussions on parts A and B1.
Writing Strategy for Part B2
- It is suggested that many applicants prefer starting with part B2 before completing parts A and B1, similar to writing an abstract after finishing a paper.
- Emphasis is placed on clearly explaining the project's methodology and its position within the current state of research.
Key Tips for Writing Part B2
- Tip 1: Clearly articulate how your project differs from existing research, including quantitative and qualitative aspects. Proper referencing is crucial.
- Tip 2: Include alternative strategies for risk mitigation; many proposals lack adequate risk assessment.
- Tip 3: Ensure a clear connection between parts B1 and B2; avoid neglecting part B2 in favor of part B1.
Structuring Your Proposal
- Tip 4: Use evaluation criteria as structural headings (e.g., groundbreaking nature, potential impact).
- Tip 5: Make the proposal reader-friendly; check for typos and coherence. Utilize space effectively for readability.
Budget Considerations in Proposals
- The panel evaluates budget requests during step two of the evaluation process, ensuring resources are justified without micromanaging finances.
- It's important to request funding for OpenXs as it’s mandatory; panels assess budgets based on necessity rather than inflated amounts.
Common Reasons for Proposal Rejection
- Typical reasons include projects being too narrow or broad, lacking detail or risk management strategies, or insufficient researcher profiles (e.g., track record or independence).
Scientific Disagreement and Proposal Writing
Key Considerations for Writing Part B2 of a Proposal
- The importance of addressing scientific disagreement is emphasized, indicating that it should be taken seriously if the panel has made an error.
- The speaker outlines five crucial points to consider when writing Part B2 of the proposal, which are intended to guide the audience effectively.
- A reminder is given to keep in mind the significance of these considerations while drafting this section of the proposal.
- The conclusion suggests that careful attention to detail can enhance the quality and credibility of the proposal being written.