UCD professor appointed as ERC ambassador

The European Research Council (ERC) and the Association of ERC Grantees (AERG) have launched the new 'Ambassadors for the ERC' network. This joint initiative aims to promote investment in frontier research and highlight the importance of research by explaining how it benefits the economy and society. 

Thirty-two ERC grantees (pictured right) have been selected and nominated as ambassadors for the ERC from 21 EU Member States as well as five associated countries - Israel, Norway, Switzerland, Turkey and the UK. The new ambassadors work across diverse domains, from life sciences to social sciences and humanities, to physical sciences and engineering.  

Among them is Professor Susi Geiger, Full Professor of Markets, Organisations and Society at UCD Lochlann Quinn School of Business, who previously led the ERC Consolidator-funded project entitled 'Misfires and Market Innovation: Toward a Collaborative Turn in Organising Markets' (MISFIRES) from 2018 to 2024.

Speaking at the launch, ERC President Maria Leptin said: "I hope the ambassadors will become recognisable faces of ERC-funded research. This network has great potential to advocate effectively for frontier research across Europe. Together, we must keep reminding our fellow citizens why funding frontier research is not optional, and why it is essential for Europe's long-term health and prosperity."

President of the AERG, Axel Cleeremans said: "We were delighted to see the high level of interest for this new initiative and the scientific diversity of applicants for this first selection. The results highlight a strong resonance and belief in the mission."

The new ERC ambassadors were appointed following a competitive selection process. Following a call for expression of interest to all ERC grantees, the AERG received over 200 applications, from which 57 applicants were interviewed. The selection process was based on balancing current grant holders’ gender and seniority.  

The Ambassadors for the ERC will serve as influential advocates for frontier research in Europe, engaging with policymakers, the media, and local research communities to promote and safeguard its value.

Professor Susi Geiger said: "The role entails advocating for the value of independent frontier research through the EU Horizon programmes and similar schemes. It means liaising with organisations including the Ministry, Research Ireland and the National Contact Points as well as higher education institutions across the country to argue for support for fundamental research and researcher independence. It also means connecting with other ambassadors to share best practice and create a European-wide network of grassroots advocacy for frontier research."

The mandate of the ambassadors is for one year with a possible renewal of up to six times based on the expression of interest. The AERG and the ERC hope to expand the 'Ambassadors for the ERC' network in the future to include more EU Member States and Associated Countries.  

Professor Geiger said: "I am delighted to be part of this initiative to profile and defend the centrality of independent frontier research. This mission feels particularly crucial at this point in time when the value of free, fundamental science that supports a democratic, livable future is under attack from various sides."