As the ERC’s governing body, the Scientific Council defines the organisation’s funding strategy and methodologies. It is composed of eminent scientists and scholars who collectively represent the European scientific community.
The ERCEA implements and manages ERC operations. Its responsibilities include managing the Horizon 2020 programme, executing the annual work programme and implementing calls for proposals for funding.
The ERC Scientific Council has set up Thematic Working Groups to address specific issues. Current Working Groups cover topics such as gender balance, open access, widening European participation, innovation and industry.
The ERC Scientific Council has set up Standing Committees to address specific tasks. It has established two Standing Committees: one to deal with conflict of interest, the other to control the selection of reviewers and panellists.