British Academy ERC Starting Grants Webinar 2026: Free Guidance for UK Researchers in Humanities and Social Sciences

Overview

The British Academy runs grants webinars for UK-based researchers in the humanities and social sciences who are considering applying for European Research Council (ERC) funding. They are part of the Academy's European Research and Collaboration programme and are led by British Academy Fellows with experience of ERC grants or ERC evaluation panels. The next session covers the ERC Starting Grants call, which opened in July 2026, and is led by Professor Patrick Haggard FBA together with other Fellows. It is held online on Monday, 28 September 2026, from 14:30 to 16:00 BST. The source describes it as free guidance.

What the session covers

The webinar explains the ERC proposal format and evaluation process, and the issues applicants need to consider when planning, writing and costing a competitive proposal. It aims to show what evaluators look for, how to structure and present a project, and how to build an appropriate budget.

Feedback on draft proposals

Researchers can ask for their B1 draft proposal to be discussed by the panel during the session by indicating interest on the registration form and sending the draft in advance. Not every draft will be selected, and submitting one does not guarantee review. Discussed proposals have names and personal details removed. Everyone attending benefits from the general guidance, even if their draft is not reviewed.

Who can attend

The session is aimed at UK-based researchers in the humanities and social sciences who are preparing or thinking about an ERC application.

How to register

Registration is through the designated registration form.

Key dates

B1 drafts for possible feedback are due by Thursday, 17 September 2026 at 12:00 noon. Registration closes on Friday, 25 September 2026 at 12:00 noon.