About European Research College (ERC).
The European Research College (ERC) is an independent institution within the European Research University (ERUNI), established as a centre for scholarly collaboration and innovation. It operates as a decentralised research network, with autonomous academic centres situated in major global cities, particularly across Europe. While formally integrated into the ERUNI framework, each centre maintains academic independence in shaping its research priorities and activities.
As a vibrant and expanding research community, the ERC brings together scholars at all stages of their academic careers — from early-career researchers and postdoctoral fellows to senior academics who provide mentorship and leadership in advancing rigorous, high-quality research.
Each ERC centre develops its own thematic focus based on its academic context, expertise, and partnerships. Current areas of research include economics and business studies, psychological and learning sciences, legal theory, international and commercial law, political science, and international relations. As the network continues to grow, ERC is committed to expanding its research agenda, including into new and emerging fields beyond the social sciences.
ERC provides an environment in which researchers can pursue their work with a high degree of academic freedom and autonomy. Research appointments at ERC are typically non-teaching positions, allowing scholars to dedicate their time fully to research, collaboration, and intellectual development. This structure supports focused, high-impact scholarship and fosters a culture of depth, independence, and innovation.
To further promote original research, the ERC regularly announces thematic research grant calls aligned with the focus areas of its centres. These internal grants are designed to support independent inquiry and may cover personnel costs, conference travel, international research visits, publication fees, and other project-related expenses. Recipients are selected through a competitive process and are encouraged to engage with the wider ERC academic network.
In support of its broader mission, the ERC also organises workshops, lectures, and academic events designed to foster key scholarly competencies such as research management, academic writing, and communication. These initiatives equip researchers with the tools to navigate the complexities of contemporary academic life.
With its independent governance, growing international presence, and emphasis on academic freedom, the ERC offers an intellectually stimulating environment in which researchers can thrive. We warmly invite scholars to engage, collaborate, and contribute to the advancement of knowledge within a dynamic and inclusive academic community that values excellence, integrity, and innovation.
Get in touch.
If you are an aspiring researcher looking for a dynamic environment in which to advance your academic career, we warmly invite you to get in touch. At the European Research College, we are always keen to collaborate with passionate and motivated individuals from around the world. Whether your interests lie in interdisciplinary research, academic workshops, or the development of scholarly and professional skills, we offer a unique opportunity to grow within an intellectually stimulating and supportive community.
We welcome researchers seeking to make a meaningful impact in a range of disciplines. Our London centre focuses on economics, business studies, psychological sciences, and educational research. In Amsterdam, our research themes include legal theory, international law, commercial law, political science, and international relations. If your academic interests align with any of these areas, we encourage you to reach out.
Whether you are a professor, senior researcher, or an early-career scholar, we would be delighted to explore potential collaboration with you. Together, we can shape the future of research and contribute to a culture rooted in academic excellence, innovation, and integrity.
For all enquiries regarding research collaboration, academic partnerships, or potential affiliation with any of our centres, please contact our Research Engagement Coordinator, Charlie Gallan. Charlie will be happy to receive your CV and academic background, and will connect you with the appropriate research lead. He also provides administrative support throughout the onboarding process and facilitates introductions within the ERC’s international research community.
