This practical training provides a solid foundation for developing strong third-party funding applications, with a particular focus on programmes offered by the DFG and the European Commission (e.g. ERC), transferable to other (inter-) national funders. Participants learn how to strategically select suitable funding schemes and craft key application sections (e.g. abstract, aim, objectives, research design and its implementation) in line with both formal and content-related requirements.
A central focus is placed on the perspective of funders and reviewers: participants gain insight into the evaluation process and learn how to tailor proposals to the logic, expectations, and reading behaviour of reviewers.
Through hands-on exercises, participants learn how to develop their funding idea and tailor it to the objectives of a selected funding programme. Individual and group exercises help participants not only to structure their applications in line with the requirements of the funding agency, but also to write applications that reflect the reading habits of the reviewers.
Methods: Short lectures, group discussions, individual exercises, practical tools
Objectives:
Participants will learn to:
- Position proposal writing as a tool for career development
- Align their research idea with the objectives of a targeted funding body
- Structure and design the ecellence and implementation section of a funding proposal
- Understand and address the expectations of reviewers
- Navigate formalities, timelines, and deadlines professionally
In preparation for the training, participants will be given a brief assignment, which we will reflect on and discuss during the workshop.
