How research funding took me out of the lab and into leadership

In April 2021, after years of refining an idea, a researcher submitted a proposal for a European Research Council grant. Six months later, they were invited for an interview, indicating the proposal’s potential for resubmission if necessary. Preparing for possible failure, the researcher rewrote the proposal. However, in March 2022, they learned they had won the grant, securing nearly €2 million over five years to develop innovative fungal-biofilm-based materials. This funding transformed their research group and job at the InnoRenew Centre of Excellence in Slovenia, shifting their focus from scientific inquiries to managing a growing team and making strategic decisions. In 2024, they secured an additional €3 million Pathfinder grant from the European Innovation Council, further advancing their work. This story highlights the challenges and opportunities that come with significant research funding and leadership responsibilities. QUESTION: How might securing such substantial research funding impact the future direction and priorities of a scientific research team?