ERC Grant Awarded to former Young CAS PI, Ida-Marie Høyvik

Ida-Marie previously led the Young CAS project A Wave Function Based Framework for Describing Photoactivated Redox Processes at CAS from 2022 to 2024.

We asked her about her new ERC project, the impact of her time as a Young CAS PI, and her advice for emerging researchers in basic research.

OpenQuantum Project and Impact of the Young CAS Grant

Ida-Marie’s new ERC project, OpenQuantum, seeks to develop advanced electronic wave function models capable of describing molecules with fluctuating electron counts. "I'm particularly interested in how surface interactions and electric current enforce these open electronic conditions," she explains. "Understanding these effects on a fundamental quantum mechanical level may help us use it to our advantage in terms of modifying or catalyzing chemical reactions."

She reflects on her Young CAS project as a transformative experience: "The Young CAS grant gave me an opportunity to meet, discuss and collaborate with scientists which are outside my narrow world of electronic wave function theory."

The Young CAS Grant provided a key opportunity during a challenging period for her professional development. "There was quite a few years where it was difficult for me to attend conferences and network due to having small children and due to the pandemic," she explains. "The Young CAS grant made it possible for me to create a bigger network and to establish collaborations with people I knew in advance, but which I had not collaborated with previously."

Designed specifically for early-career researchers, the grant allowed her to balance professional growth with personal commitments. "This was absolutely crucial for me as a researcher, both in terms of inspiration and motivation," she notes. She remains enthusiastic about continuing work from her Young CAS project.

Advice for Young Researchers

When asked about seeking research funding, Ida-Marie offers straight advice: "Write a proposal on something that excites you. Life is too short to apply for funding on something you are not excited about."

She candidly acknowledges the challenges of her focused approach: "I have invested a lot of time going in my direction, and my publication list has suffered," she admits. "But I think it was worth it." Her key recommendations? Seek brutally honest feedback from trusted colleagues and stay true to your scientific passion.

Looking ahead, Høyvik expresses much enthusiasm about her new project. "I'm excited to dig deeper into the equations and hopefully as soon as possible get the framework up and running so that I can start doing cool chemistry with it," she says.

CAS is thrilled to have been an important part of Ida-Marie’s research journey. Her successful ERC application highlights the vital importance of programs supporting young researchers like the Young CAS Grant. We are proud to add her to our growing list of alumni who have received ERC grants and wish her the very best in her future endeavors!

The call for applications to the Young CAS Grant is announced twice a year. The next call will be announced in February 2025.

If you are interested in reading more about the Young CAS Grant you can find more information in the previous call >