Workshop on obtaining third-party funding: tips from experts for researchers!

Workshop on obtaining third-party funding: tips from experts for researchers!

The University of Erfurt is hosting an in-person workshop entitled “Third-Party Funding: Peer exchange on lessons learned” on Friday, May 23, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. This workshop is aimed at postdocs and (junior) professors who already have experience in applying for third-party funding. The aim is to expand knowledge about third-party funding applications and to provide information on the requirements and special features of various funding formats.

Dr. Benjamin Sippel, research officer in the Research and Transfer Service Center at Friedrich Schiller University Jena, will guide the participants. Before the workshop, a survey of expectations and interests is carried out in order to adapt the content accordingly. Further information about the event and the possibility to register are available on the Website for the event available.

Third-party funded expert program in Giessen

Also of interest is the third-party funded Expert Program (DEP) at the University of Giessen, which is intended for doctoral students and postdocs. Applications for this program were open until January 19, 2025. The DEP offers an eight-month intensive training course that includes the development of third-party funded projects and the writing of project proposals. In a group, exchange is encouraged and there is the opportunity to work in learning tandems and receive individual coaching.

The event language is German, and the dates include various modules that span 2025, including a kick-off on February 20, 2025. Participation requires attendance on almost all program days and regular feedback to the tandem partners. The aim is also to be included in the GGS expert pool to advise other young researchers. The program has been funded by the departments of law, economics and social and cultural sciences since 2018.

Strategic aspects of applying for third-party funding

The process of applying for third-party funding is often complex and requires close cooperation between the scientific project management and the finance department of the university administration. Official approval from the university administration is required before applications can be submitted. Solid financing is crucial, which is why the creation of a comprehensive financing plan should be based on the application specifications of the third-party funding provider.

Christian Volk emphasizes the importance of strategic wording in application letters. Standard texts are often unsuccessful. The specific requirements of third-party funding providers must be carefully observed. The European Research Council (ERC), as one of the most prominent funding institutions, has strict quality requirements. Applications are divided into three groups, with only group “A” receiving recommendations for funding. The universities' research funding offices offer valuable advice to support researchers in checking the completeness and fulfillment of necessary criteria.

Given the increasing importance of third-party funding in research, it is essential to continually expand your own skills in this area and to be aware of current trends and requirements in order to be successful in this competition. The events and programs mentioned make a significant contribution to imparting the necessary skills.