University of Cologne secures 4.5 million euros for groundbreaking research!

University of Cologne secures 4.5 million euros for groundbreaking research!

Scientists from the University of Cologne were awarded three ERC Starting Grants totaling up to 4.5 million euros. This funding extends over a period of five years and aims to support innovative research projects in the fields of physics, plant sciences and economics. The recipients of the grants are Dr. Sabina Hillebrandt, Dr. Isabel Saur and Prof. Dr. Johannes Wohlfart.

Dr. Sabina Hillebrandt receives the grant for her project “OLED-based bidirectional Neuroimplant” (OdiN), which deals with the development of a flexible implant to monitor and protect nerve cells in neurodegenerative diseases. Organic light-emitting diodes (NIR OLEDs) are used for photobiomodulation, and tests in cell models and mouse models of Parkinson's disease are planned. Their approach could potentially have revolutionary implications for the treatment of nervous system diseases.

Project overview of the funded scientists

Dr. Isabel Saur is funded via ERC Grant for her project “Molecular determinants underlying non-host resistance to devastating fungal diseases of cereal plants” (noDisease). Their goal is to research the genetic factors responsible for the natural immunity of plants against certain pathogens and ultimately to develop disease-resistant plant varieties.

Prof. Dr. Johannes Wohlfart, on the other hand, examines the formation of economic expectations in uncertain times in his funded project “Modes of Expectation Formation in Macro and Finance” (MODES). His project combines AI-supported surveys with economic models and aims to better understand the impact of expectations on markets, prices and jobs. He is also part of the ECONtribute Cluster of Excellence, which focuses on economics.

Framework conditions for ERC grants

Loud erc.europa.eu ERC Starting Grants are intended for early career scientists with 2 to 7 years of post-PhD experience. Applications can be submitted in any research area, and the grants support projects by individual scientists who can include researchers from different countries in their team.

The funding is up to 1.5 million euros for five years, with the possibility of applying for additional funding to cover further costs. Applicants must work in a public or private research institution in an EU member state or associated country. The applicant submits the application on behalf of the host institution, which must provide suitable conditions for the research work.

A structured application process is crucial, which includes the identification of a suitable host institution and early contact with National Contact Points (NCPs). External experts evaluate the submitted proposals, with only excellence serving as the evaluation criterion.

In addition to the Starting Grants, the ERC also offers advanced grants for established PIs who have demonstrated significant research success. These grants can be up to 2.5 million euros for five years and include additional funding for start-up costs, which can be increased to up to 2 million euros if necessary.

The achievements of the funded Cologne scientists illustrate the outstanding research carried out at the University of Cologne. They are an example of the drive for innovation and the social relevance of academic research in Europe.