The START funding line enables established researchers at the University of Münster to initiate new collaborations or further develop existing initiatives. It provides opportunities to refine research topics and explore collaborative perspectives that both strengthen existing emerging fields within the university’s research profile and open up potential new fields of development.
Eligible applicants are permanently employed researchers at the University of Münster. Applications should include at least internal partners and are encouraged to integrate external collaborations, in particular international and non-university partners.
Funding is provided for activities that initiate or strengthen collaborations, including:
Proposals should demonstrate relevance for the development of collaborative research structures.
Applications must be submitted using the provided template and include the following information: project title, list of participating researchers and, where applicable, external partners, project description, outline of the planned use of funds, and budget and time plan. Applicants should also propose up to three potential reviewers.
Following a formal eligibility check, applications are evaluated through a peer review process and subsequently discussed by the Rectorate Research Council (Forschungsbeirat). The final funding decision is taken by the Rectorate. In assessing applications, particular consideration is given to scientific quality, innovation potential, and the advancement of the university’s Emerging Fields.
We strongly encourage you to contact the Futur Lab in advance of your application to ensure tailored, needs-based support for your proposal throughout the application process: