Maria Leptin has been re-appointed by the European Commission as president of the European Research Council (ERC) for another two years, as the research community raises concerns about the basic funder’s future budget and governance. Starting with the next iteration of Horizon Europe in 2028, the Commission wants to introduce changes to the ERC’s governance structure, including a shorter term for its president. The plan is not set in stone as it has to go through lengthy negotiations with EU governments and MEPs before the expected start of the new Horizon Europe in January 2028. Related articlesAs for the Commission’s proposal for Horizon Europe, Leptin said it was “fantastic” as it foresees a budget increase for the ERC, but she hopes that “it holds up” during negotiations. We have panels that are hand-picked by an independent scientific council,” she said.