Both the European Research Council (ERC) and COST contribute to the free flow of ideas and researchers in Europe, welcoming individuals regardless of their scientific field, career status, and country of origin. The ERC focuses on excellence, supporting both research and researchers, while COST plays a unique role as a bridge. It brings together excellent research projects and allows researchers and innovators to develop their ideas across various fields of science and technology by sharing them with their peers.
Through COST Actions, ERC grantees have the opportunity to interact with leading researchers from Europe and beyond, regardless of their location. This opportunity is particularly valuable for young researchers who may have had fewer chances to network and are less familiar with European funding opportunities. It’s also beneficial for researchers from Inclusiveness Target Countries (ITC). This story of 3 ITC researchers from Portugal is one of collaboration, networking, and synergies between the ERC and the COST programme.
COST & ERC for research excellence in Europe – spotlight Portugal