There’s still a lot of work required to create the European Research Area. The R&D landscape remains fragmented and even the best institutions have much to do to meet the 2014 deadline, says a progress report this week

A total of 284 researchers are to receive up to €3.5 million each for basic research, while 33 top-up grants will test the commercial potential of leading ideas

A total of 287 researchers are in line to receive €400 million in the final round of starting grants awarded under Framework Programme 7

Key MEPs are calling for specific measures to widen the horizon of the EU’s flagship research programme and ensure there is more participation from member states with less-developed R&D systems

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)