ANR
Agence Nationale de la Recherche (French National Research Agency)
France's main research funding agency. Key programmes: JCJC (Jeunes Chercheuses et Jeunes Chercheurs, young researchers up to 10 years post-PhD), PRC (Collaborative Research Projects), and PRCI (International Collaborative Research).
Evaluation Criteria
- 1Scientific quality and ambition of the project
- 2Organisation and feasibility of the work plan
- 3Quality of the consortium and complementarity of partners
- 4Potential impact on science, economy, society, or culture
- 5For JCJC: potential of the PI to establish independent research
Proposal Structure
- •Scientific document (max 20 pages): scientific context, objectives, methodology, expected results
- •Partner descriptions and roles
- •Detailed financial plan per partner
- •CV of the coordinator and key researchers
- •Impact plan: scientific publications, patents, societal outreach
Common Mistakes
- ×Not aligning with ANR's annual thematic priorities
- ×Ignoring the two-stage evaluation process — the pre-proposal must stand on its own
- ×Weak consortium management plan
- ×Not demonstrating feasibility through preliminary results
- ×JCJC: not distinguishing your work from your PhD/postdoc advisor's programme
Success Tips
- ✓Read the annual work programme carefully — ANR priorities shift yearly
- ✓JCJC is specifically for building independence — frame it as YOUR programme
- ✓French collaboration is valued — include partners from French institutions
- ✓PRC: ensure genuine complementarity between partners, not just co-existence
- ✓Include data management plan even if not strictly required
Frequently Asked Questions
+Who is eligible for ANR JCJC?
Young researchers (Jeunes Chercheuses et Jeunes Chercheurs) up to 10 years post-PhD, hosted at a French research institution. The JCJC is a single-PI grant aimed at establishing independence and launching your own research programme.
+What is the difference between JCJC, PRC, and PRCI?
JCJC is a single-PI young researcher grant. PRC (Projet de Recherche Collaborative) funds French consortia of 2+ partners. PRCI (International Collaborative Research) funds projects with foreign partners under bilateral agreements (e.g. DFG-ANR, NSF-ANR).
+What is the typical ANR JCJC budget?
ANR JCJC grants typically range from €200,000 to €350,000 over 3–4 years, covering personnel (postdoc or PhD), consumables, equipment, and travel. Exact limits vary by call and disciplinary committee.
+Can I submit an ANR proposal in English?
Yes, ANR proposals are accepted in English or French. Most applicants submit in English. However, reviewers may be French-speaking, and the lay summary is often required in French.
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