Magazine: The rules of fair science

[Henningsen Susanne]

  13 July 2026

	
ERC EC

European Research Council

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      ERC Magazine


        Editorial – Excellence through equity

The complex challenges facing our world call for strong, equitable and 
long-term international research collaboration, write Liselotte Højgaard 
and Harriet Bulkeley of the ERC Scientific Council. How can these 
partnerships deliver both excellence and fairness?

more <https://ec.europa.eu/newsroom/erc/redirection/item/948055/en/2869>


        Equitable research is not rocket science

In this op-ed, Doris Schroeder argues that equitable research 
partnerships need clear, accessible ethics - not ever more technical 
rules. Drawing on the TRUST Code, she explores how international 
research can move beyond exploitation towards genuine equity.

more <https://ec.europa.eu/newsroom/erc/redirection/item/948056/en/2869>


        Why values – not just rules – are needed to stop ethics dumping

More ethical rules have not eliminated unethical practices in 
international research. In this op-ed, Pamela Andanda argues that only a 
values-based approach can foster ethical conduct across borders.

more <https://ec.europa.eu/newsroom/erc/redirection/item/948057/en/2869>


        Big science, fair access

Radio astronomy is entering an era of mega-infrastructures. These global 
facilities promise groundbreaking discoveries - but also raise questions 
about access, governance and trust. Marijke Haverkorn and Daan du Toit 
explore what it takes to build fair collaborations.

more <https://ec.europa.eu/newsroom/erc/redirection/item/948058/en/2869>


        Beyond good intentions and checklists

Global research collaborations involve more than sharing data and 
expertise. They also raise questions of power, ownership and fairness. 
ERC-funded teams show how equity can shape science from the very beginning.

more <https://ec.europa.eu/newsroom/erc/redirection/item/948071/en/2869>


        When equity becomes politically contested

Not all challenges come from crossing borders - some come from crossing 
political fault lines. Marta Bucholc studies how human rights are 
invoked and contested in abortion debates across six countries. Her work 
reveals the delicate balance between research, politics and public debate.

more <https://ec.europa.eu/newsroom/erc/redirection/item/948059/en/2869>


        Who writes the rules of science?

In 1992, astronomers gathered in Baltimore to draft a charter they hoped 
would transform their field. Decades later, Joris Vandendriessche, 
traces how rules, rituals and customs continue to shape who belongs in 
science. From religious oaths to the TRUST Code, he explores the 
evolving ethics of scientific communities.

more <https://ec.europa.eu/newsroom/erc/redirection/item/948060/en/2869>


      ERC News


        Study identifies natural mechanism in tumour progression

A research team in Spain has identified a new molecular mechanism that 
helps limit the progression of several types of cancer. While the 
findings have no immediate clinical application, they could inform 
future approaches to cancer diagnosis and treatment. The study was 
supported with two ERC grants.

more <https://ec.europa.eu/newsroom/erc/redirection/item/948061/en/2869>


        Scientists discover how root stay clear of rotting plants

Researchers have identified a new root growth response, called 
saprotropism, that helps plants avoid decaying plant matter, providing 
new insights into how plants sense and adapt to their environment.

more <https://ec.europa.eu/newsroom/erc/redirection/item/948062/en/2869>


      ERC Events


        24 & 25 July | ERC at Geração Ciência festival 2026

The Science Generation Festival will take over the Pavilion of Knowledge 
- Ciência Viva Science Centre in Lisbon with two days of free, engaging 
science activities for all ages. Several ERC grantees will present their 
research through interactive talks, demonstrations, and hands-on 
activities, bringing cutting-edge science closer to children, families 
and the wider public.

more <https://ec.europa.eu/newsroom/erc/redirection/item/948064/en/2869>


        9 Nov | Science communication course for ERC grantees

The ERC is inviting current grantees to apply for a science 
communication training course in Brussels. The deadline to apply is 24 
August 2026, 12.00 noon (CEST).

more <https://ec.europa.eu/newsroom/erc/redirection/item/948070/en/2869>


      Calls


        ERC Advanced Grants

Deadline: 27 August 2026

more <https://ec.europa.eu/newsroom/erc/redirection/item/948066/en/2869>


        ERC Plus Grants

Deadline: 2 September 2026

more <https://ec.europa.eu/newsroom/erc/redirection/item/948067/en/2869>


        ERC Proof of Concept Grants

Deadline: 17 September 2026

more <https://ec.europa.eu/newsroom/erc/redirection/item/948068/en/2869>

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