Scientific breakthroughs arise when excellent researchers are given the freedom to explore beyond the bounds of formulaic R&D programmes. A Howard Hughes-type grant scheme for Europe would promote this, says Gunnar Öquist

The debate over Horizon 2020 funding heats up, with publication of a Danish ‘declaration’ on the importance of funding excellent science

As it celebrates its 5th birthday, the European Research Council is not about to give in to pressure to spread grants more evenly across Europe. Excellence will prevail, says president Helga Nowotny

30 ERC grantees receive additional funding to help commercialise their research

Fourth competition sees demand for European Research Council Starting grants rise by 42 per cent

Nobel prize-winning economist James Heckman of the University of Chicago, has been awarded a €2.51 million five year grant by the European Research Council (ERC)

Two new vice president have been elected to serve until the end of Framework Programme 7 in 2013

A recipient of one of the European Research Council’s first grants, Konstantin Novoselov, has won the Nobel Prize in Physics for his research on graphene.

Interim Director Jack Metthey tells Science|Business he is banishing the red tape that threatens to undermine the European Research Council’s hard-earned reputation for funding excellent research.

ERC head Fotis Kafatos urges basic research for economic growth – and charts a course for expansion.