The Norwegian Academy of Science and Letters recently announced the winners of the 2024 Kavli Prize in Astrophysics. Among the eight new Kavli Prize Laureates, two astrophysicists were recognized for their groundbreaking work on the discovery and characterization of extra-solar planets and their atmospheres. These scientists have developed innovative methods for detecting atomic species in planetary atmospheres and measuring their thermal infrared emission, laying the foundation for identifying the molecular signatures of atmospheres around various types of planets.
One of the recipients of the Kavli Prize is Sara Seager, who is also part of an international research team that was awarded an ERC Synergy Grant in 2023. The team, known as the REVEAL project (REVEALing Signatures of Habitable Worlds Hidden by Stellar Activity), is composed of experts in stellar activity and exoplanet research. Their goal is to identify planets that may be capable of supporting life. Professor Seager’s group within the team focuses on searching for evidence of atmospheres that are conducive to life, utilizing observational data from NASA’s James Webb Telescope.
ERC Synergy Grants aim to bring together Principal Investigators with diverse expertise and resources to address complex research challenges. Additionally, one researcher in each Synergy Grant team has the opportunity to collaborate with an institution outside of the EU or an associated country. The Kavli Prize recognizes scientists who have made significant contributions to astrophysics, nanoscience, and neuroscience, revolutionizing our understanding of the universe at different scales. Since its inception in 2008, eight ERC grantees have been honored with this prestigious award. Recipients of the Kavli Award receive $1 million per category to further their research endeavors.
The European Research Council (ERC), established by the European Union in 2007, is a leading funding organization that supports cutting-edge frontier research. The ERC provides funding to exceptional researchers from any background or age to conduct projects across Europe. Through its various grant schemes, including Starting Grants, Consolidator Grants, Advanced Grants, and Synergy Grants, the ERC empowers researchers to pursue ambitious research initiatives. The ERC also offers a Proof of Concept Grant scheme to help researchers bridge the gap between their innovative research and the early stages of commercialization.
Maria Leptin currently serves as the President of the ERC, leading the organization’s independent governing body, the Scientific Council. Under the Horizon Europe program, which falls under the purview of European Commissioner for Innovation, Research, Culture, Education, and Youth, Iliana Ivanova, the ERC has a budget of over €16 billion from 2021 to 2027. This substantial funding enables the ERC to continue supporting groundbreaking research that pushes the boundaries of scientific knowledge and innovation.