Initiated by the Brussels Office of the Estonian Research Council, the exhibition highlights researchers of Estonian origin or those working in Estonia who have received prestigious European Research Council (ERC) grants, showcasing both their achievements and contributions to frontier science.
The exhibition presents 28 researchers, the majority of whom are affiliated with the University of Tartu. ERC grants are of exceptional importance to Estonian researchers, especially given their unique nature, offering grantees the freedom to choose what, how, and where they conduct their research.
Tiina Roose, one of the featured ERC grantees, emphasizes the significance of the exhibition in bringing Estonian research and researchers to the international stage: “Having seen the physical exhibition in Brussels, I can say it was truly impressive and excellently curated.” She also highlights the exhibition’s role in fostering collaboration: “For me, one of its key values lies in how it brought together researchers from around the world who are featured in the exhibition. Since then, many have developed stronger ties to the Estonian research landscape, not just among local researchers, but also on a global level.”
Kristel Oitmaa, representative of the Brussels Office of the Estonian Research Council and the exhibition’s project manager, adds: “This exhibition shines a light on the contributions of Estonian researchers to society, brings science closer to the public, and clearly demonstrates that science creates value.” The exhibition is designed to serve multiple purposes: it can be used to promote Estonian research in embassies and universities, and to inspire young researchers and future partners. Carmen Kivistik, also the representative from the Brussels Office, notes: “Our hope is that the exhibition will travel across countries and cities, bringing together scientists, students, and science enthusiasts to foster collaboration, exchange knowledge, and showcase the international scope and value of Estonian research.”
The exhibition will remain on display at the University of Tartu Library until 19 August, after which it will continue its journey to various European cities.
The Exciting Minds virtual exhibition is also available online at: https://researchinestonia.eu/ERC/en/.
The ERC is a European Union funding body dedicated to supporting cutting-edge research. It funds innovative and bold scientific ideas across all disciplines, with scientific excellence as the sole evaluation criterion. The mission of the ERC is to support top-tier research in Europe by providing competitive grants open to researchers from any field.
The exhibition was funded by the European Regional Development Fund under the activity “Supporting internationalisation of R&D: Connecting to the international knowledge market”, as part of the Mobilitas 3.0 programme.
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