Funding Calendars

Here you can find an overview of the main grants split across the year.

Below you will find a funding calendar that is continually updated with deadlines for the larger Danish foundations and the Horizon Europe calls, which have an ongoing deadline (ERC, Curie, EIC Pathfinder Open). Since the calendar is updated regularly - and valid for 1 year from now - it can also be used as an annual cycle.

If you are looking for opportunities sorted after funding categories, then you can see our latest newsletter. This calendar has focus on relevant coming calls.

You may also consult the funding and tenders portal of the European Commission.    
Johannes Lundin Brockdorff

Johannes Lundin Brockdorff Senior Executive Officer Office for Research, Advice and Innovation Mobile: +45 22822901

Independent Research Fund Denmark - Green Research (thematic research)

You can apply for up to DKK 5 million (excl. overhead) for green, independent, and curiosity-driven research (up to 5 years duration). The project should promote researchers’ own original ideas that can contribute to the green transition. Your application must include at least one PhD student or postdoctoral candidate. This requirement is intended to support the growth layer in Danish research. There is a general requirements of a Co-Principal Investigator.

Deadline: 2 June at 12.00 hrs. Expected reply: October 2026

Independent Research Fund Denmark - Research on artificial intelligence in the cancer field (thematic research)

You can apply for up to DKK 5 million (excl. overhead) for research on artificial intelligence in the cancer field  that can benefit both patients and the healthcare system (up to 5 years duration). Your application must include at least one PhD student or postdoctoral candidate. There is a general requirements of a Co-Principal Investigator.

Deadline: 2 June at 12.00 hrs. Expected reply: October 2026

Independent Research Fund Denmark - Clinical and independent research (thematic research)

You can apply for up to DKK 5 million (excl. overhead) for point of care clinical and independent research, and in areas where there is limited commercial interest and/or opportunities for external funding (e.g. from research foundations) (up to 5 years duration). There is a general requirements of a Co-Principal Investigator.

Deadline: 2 June at 12.00 hrs. Expected reply: October 2026

Novo Nordisk Foundation - Steno Collaborative Grants

You can apply for DKK 300.000 to DKK 10 million for a grant period of up to 5 years. With this call, the Novo Nordisk Foundation wishes to strengthen the collaboration between the Steno Diabetes Centers and the research environments related to the Centers. The foundation will support research projects with a unifying mission to develop knowledge, to exchange experience across the research institutions and to facilitate synergy between the research environments around the Steno Diabetes Centers. The research project/ application must comprise at least a main applicant and two to five co-applicants.

Deadline: 2 June at 14.00 hrs. Expected reply: Mid September 2026

Independent Research Fund Denmark - Research on artificial intelligence (thematic research)

You can apply for up to DKK 5 million (excl. overhead) for research on artificial intelligence with a special focus on responsible development and use of the technology (up to 5 years duration). Your application must include at least one PhD student or postdoctoral candidate. There is a general requirements of a Co-Principal Investigator.

Deadline: 3 June at 12.00 hrs. Expected reply: October 2026

Villum Foundation – Villum Young Investigator

Especially talented younger researchers in technical and natural science with the ambitions of creating their own, independent research identity can apply for up to DKK 9 million for 5 years to start a research group. Only applicants with 2-8 years of research experience since completion of their PhD can apply. Associated professors may not have more than two years of tenure as associate professor. Leaves of absence will be considered. Applicants must have a clearly-defined research goal for the next five years and the research must be of such scope that it requires the formation of a research group (at least two researchers in addition to the PI). You are not eligible to apply, if you have already received a similar grant to establish your own group and profile. Starting in 2021, applicants may only re-apply once. For Danish universities and research institutions, this is also a recruitment tool to attract talented researchers outside Denmark. Applicants, who are already employed as assistant professor (tenure track) or associate professor are not allowed to apply for own salary. 

Deadline: 3 June at 14.00 hrs.  Expected reply: Ultimo December 2026

Novo Nordisk Foundation – Project grants in Endocrinology and Metabolism - Nordic Region

The Novo Nordisk Foundation hereby calls for applications within basic and clinical research within the endocrine system and metabolism relating to cellular energy homeostasis. The objective is to promote Nordic research at the highest international level to carry out research projects of 1-3 years duration. Applications from PhD students and postdocs will not be taken into consideration. You can apply for up to DKK 4.5 million.

Deadline: 4 June at 14.00 hrs. Expected reply: September 2026  

Lundbeckfonden – Lundbeckfonden Ascending Investigator

The purpose of this call is to support talented and established scientists to further develop their careers through support of research that may result in a better fundamental understanding of the brain and/or improved prevention, diagnosis and treatment of brain and nervous-system diseases. You can apply for DKK 6 million for a period of four years (DKK 7 million if substantial international collaboration). At the time of the submission deadline, you must not have an active grant portfolio for the calendar year 2025 exceeding an annual total of DKK 3.0 million for which you are principal investigator (PI). The applicant is expected to be an experienced and independent researcher with a demonstrated ability to conduct original research at a high international level, either as a permanent/tenured or tenure-track staff member at a university, or in an equivalent position at a university hospital, in Denmark.

Deadline: 9 June at 13.00 hrs. Expected reply: October 2026

Independent Research Fund Denmark - The Inge Lehmann Program

You can apply for up to DKK 2,55 million excluding overhead. You must have obtained your PhD degree or equivalent qualifications at least 2-6 years before the expiration of the application deadline. It follows from the political agreement that the purpose of the Inge Lehmann Programme is to support a more balanced gender distribution in research environments, with a focus on the career stages where inequality begins to emerge. The programme is open to all scientific areas and to men as well as women, but through exemption pursuant to section 3 of the Equal Opportunities Act, DFF will, as a general rule, choose female applicants over male applicants in case of equal qualifications between two applicants. An objective assessment will, however, be made, taking into consideration all specific criteria regarding applicants, regardless of gender. 

Deadline: 17 June at 12.00 hrs. Expected reply: December 2026

Lundbeck Foundation – LF Fellows

Outstanding and highly promising young researchers (received their PhD within the last 3-8 years) can apply for DKK 12 million for 5 years to establish an independent profile and research group within biomedical, clinical or health science - or must facilitate research within these fields. This call applies to Danish-based researchers, to researchers from abroad who wish to move to Denmark and continue their research here and to researchers already employed at Danish universities and university hospitals. Applicants may not already hold a Danish or international starting grant similar to this fellowship. The Lundbeck Foundation’s ambition is to make Denmark leading in neuroscience research by funding relevant biomedical, health, clinical and other sciences in Denmark.

Deadline: 18 June at 13.00 hrs. Expected reply: November 2026 (step-2 decision). Final decision: March 2027

Novo Nordisk Foundation – Start Package Grants

You can apply for up to DKK 10 million to recruit top researchers of any nationality to time-unlimited research positions within medical sciences, life sciences, sustainability, or natural and technical sciences. The grant is intended to provide leverage for the hiring institution during contract negotiations and to accompany the offer of a time-unlimited position at the associate- or full professor level, or of a tenure track position at the assistant professor level. The aim is also to enhance researcher mobility across borders, among Danish universities and from industry to university. A start package grant will provide the host institute with funding that must be used in connection with the candidate’s establishment of an independent research group at the host institution. Only applications submitted by the Head of the recruiting institution (the person with the authority to make employment decisions) will be considered for funding. If the recruitment occurs within Denmark, the candidate must be offered a position with career progression. The recruiting institution’s assessment/appointment committee must have at least two external members, of which at least one must be international,  and members’ names, titles, and affiliations must be disclosed. The call is open all year and grants are awarded four times per year, with a quarterly submission deadline.  

Deadline: 25 June at 14.00 hrs. Expected reply: Late August 2026

Det Norske Veritas Foundation - Autonomous systems

Researchers from Nordic universities can apply for NOK 5-12 millions (around DKK 3,3-8 mio.) for an up to 3 year basic research project within autonomous systems. The PI most have completed a PhD. This call targets the fundamental scientific challenges associated with enabling safe and trustworthy AI-enabled autonomous systems and managing the risks they introduce. Specifically, it focuses on understanding and controlling emergent capabilities in alignment with intended objectives as complexity and autonomy increase, and on how to rigorously assess the risks of deploying such systems in complex real-world environments.

Deadline 5 July. Expected reply: End October 2026 

Det Norske Veritas Foundation - Critical raw materials

Researchers from Nordic universities can apply for NOK 5-12 millions (around DKK 3,3-8 mio.) for an up to 3 year basic research project within critical raw materials. The PI most have completed a PhD. The call prioritizes system-level basic research across the full value chain of strategic and mass materials, from geological formation and resource understanding to low carbon extraction, processing, recycling and the development of alternative materials and processes that reduce dependence on scarce or geopolitically sensitive elements.

Deadline 5 July. Expected reply: End October 2026

Det Norske Veritas Foundation - Societal risks

Researchers from Nordic universities can apply for NOK 5-12 millions (around DKK 3,3-8 mio.) for an up to 3 year basic research project within societal risks. The PI most have completed a PhD. Growing geopolitical tension, harmful narratives, climate-related disruptions and rapid technological change all increase vulnerabilities for society at large and critical infrastructure in particular, increasing the need for civilian protection, preparedness and resilience. Europe is the fastest warming continent, resulting in more frequent and serious climate-related extreme events. Continued technological development and digitalization, including extended use of AI, create new and unforeseen vulnerabilities and new opportunities for destabilizing forces, as well as new challenges, needs and opportunities for security practitioners.

Deadline 5 July. Expected reply: End October 2026 

Novo Nordisk Foundation – Data Science Investigator Programme

The Novo Nordisk Foundation (NNF) seeks to support 1) talented starting group leaders (typically senior postdocs, senior researchers, or assistant professors) establishing their independence, or 2) excellent and independent associate professors or experienced assistant professors or 3) outstanding professors with ambitious projects within data science and computational science, with immediate or potential future applications within areas of relevance to NNF’s Strategy. You can apply for a 5 year grant of up to DKK 14,7 million. The total grant capital in 2026 will be DKK 99 million for Emerging, Ascending and Distinguished Data Science Investigators. 

Deadline 15 July at 14.00 hrs. Expected reply: December 2026    

Lundbeck Foundation – LF Experiment

The purpose of this grant instrument is to support extraordinary research ideas that challenge the norms and prevailing ideas. Advancements in neuroscience often develop from cross-disciplinary interaction, leading to novel insights into biological mechanisms, trial design, emerging technologies, etc. With this call, we invite applicants to submit proposals with potential benefit for the advancement of neuroscience and/or prevention, diagnosis or treatment of nervous system disorders. This programme is not intended to fund PhD projects. You can apply for up to DKK 2,3 million for a period of up to two years.

Deadline: Most likely in August. Expected reply: Medio December 2026

Novo Nordisk Foundation - RECRUIT - Grants for International Recruitment - Autumn 2026

The purpose of the RECRUIT grants is to strengthen Danish universities in the international competition of recruiting the most talented or leading researchers from abroad by providing ample funding across a broad timeframe. Candidates for RECRUIT must be considered ambitious and excellent at their career level. The candidate’s research should bring substantial value and/or novelty to a research field that has strategic relevance to the recruiting university. The candidates research focus must lie within natural and technical sciences or biotechnology and sustainability (see themes in the guidelines). Up to DKK 22 to 55 million for the recruitment of up to 7 years. In the autumn call, DTU can apply for DKK 100 million, thus there will be an internal selection process at DTU. The internal deadline is 27 May for this autumn 2026 call. Please contact your Head of Department for information regarding the nomination of a candidate (or contact Mette Christiansen, mech@dtu.dk). DTU must by submission deadline submit a complete list of the nominated candidates and of the respective budgets requested for each candidate.

Deadline: 12 August at 14.00 hrs. Expected reply: Late November 2026

 

Novo Nordisk Foundation - RECRUIT sabbatical grants - Autumn 2026

RECRUIT Sabbatical aim to enable scientists from abroad to come to Denmark and scientists located in Denmark to travel abroad for up to one year (up to DKK 1 million). Sabbatical grants support faculty focusing on natural and technical science research and interdisciplinarity, and biotechnology or sustainability. The candidate must be a university faculty in a time-unlimited position, either from abroad going to Denmark, e.g., to explore Danish science in advance of a RECRUIT application, or from Denmark wishing to visit a foreign research group. Sabbaticals provide a possibility to obtain new knowledge and refocus while being relieved from normal daily duties. Also, it is a possibility for the researcher to expand the horizon, to learn new methods, to improve professional competencies, and to develop new professional networks. A total of up to DKK 1 million is available per Sabbatical grant. The duration of the sabbatical can be 3-12 months.  Ideally, the sabbatical should be taken as one continuous period but may be split into two, if justified. The internal DTU deadline is 15 June for this autumn 2026 call. Please contact your Head of Department for information regarding the nomination of a candidate (or contact Mette Christiansen, mech@dtu.dk).

Deadline: 12 August at 14.00 hrs. Expected reply: Late November 2026

 

Lundbeck Foundation – Lundbeck Foundation Start-Up Programme

The purpose of the Lundbeck Foundation Start-Up programme is to support the development of Danish neuroscience by facilitating the process for recruiting researchers to Danish Universities or hospitals from abroad or from industry. You can apply for DKK 7 mill for up to 4 years for associate professors and DKK 11 mill for up to 4 years for full professors. University or hospital leaders with hiring authority for permanent positions can apply for the grant. The research should be within the field of basic or clinical neuroscience, or science with clear relevance to neuroscience. The term ‘neuroscience’ is used here in its broadest sense, hence including medical, technical, natural and social sciences as well as humanities. The call will have quarterly deadlines.

Deadline: 13 August. Expected reply: One month after deadline 

The Danish Maritime Fund

The Danish Maritime Fund provides financial support to initiatives and undertakings, which may serve to develop and promote Danish shipping- and shipbuilding industries. You can apply for applied research projects within technology and business development. You can also apply for relevant maritime conferences, events and meetings as well as industrial product development. There are four deadlines each year. 

Deadline: 13 August. Expected reply: Mid October

Novo Nordisk Foundation - Project Grants for research within Industrial Biotechnology and Environmental Biotechnology 2026

The Novo Nordisk Foundation wishes to make significant contributions to the sustainability of society and the environment, including support of research within the areas of industrial biotechnology and environmental biotechnology. The proposed research must address major challenges within Industrial Biotechnology and Environmental Biotechnology. The research should be fundamental in character but have a strategic outlook to scaling potential(s), contribute to sustainability and, if relevant, increase productivity. The proposed research must involve a clear element of biotechnology. The grant period should be 1-3 years. The total grant amount is up to DKK 4.3 million for a 3-year grant.

Deadline: Most likely in August. Expected reply: December 2026

Novo Nordisk Foundation - Project Grants for research within Plant Science, Agriculture and Food Biotechnology

The proposed research should address major challenges within plant, agricultural, and food science associated with developing sustainable agriculture and food production. The research should be fundamental in character with a clear and strategic outlook to improve sustainability and potential solutions. The proposed research should significantly extent existing knowledge beyond state-of-the-art and may have a high-risk profile. The research should be based on life science research disciplines. You can apply for up to DKK 4,4 million for a 3-year grant.

Deadline: Most likely in August. Expected reply: December 2026  

GUDP (food, climate, environment)

GUDP supports green development and demonstration projects within the Danish food sector. The projects should be economical sustainable and solve some of the climate and environmental problems that the society faces. Industrial participation and co-financing is required. 

Deadline: Most likely in August. December 2026

Innovation Fund Denmark – Grand Solutions - Quantum Test and Demonstration Facilities (Q-TEST)

You can apply for typically around DKK 10-49 million investment during a 1-4 year period. This call aims to strengthen Denmark’s position in quantum technology by supporting the establishment of test and demonstration facilities. The initiative aims to build national capabilities in quantum technological solutions with industrial and commercial potential. The call is open to companies investing in quantum technologies in Denmark. Universities, GTS institutes and other organisations may apply individually or in consortia on equal terms with companies. The facility must create value in the Danish quantum ecosystem. Support may be granted for costs related to the establishment of test and demonstration facilities. Funding is not provided for subsequent operational costs. The total budget for the call is DKK 49 million. The application process is one-stage with full application.

Deadline: 18 August at 12.00 hrs. Expected reply: Medio September 2026

Novo Nordisk Foundation - Project Grants in Clinical and Translational Medicine

You can apply for up to DKK 4,4 million (3 years) for a research project within clinical and translational medicine. The research should involve patients/humans and/or clinical practice, diagnostic or therapeutic methods, but can also involve established animal models. Only principal investigators are eligible to apply.

Deadline: 19 August at 14.00 hrs. Expected reply: End December 2026

Villum Foundation - Villum Investigator

The aim of the VILLUM Investigator Programme is to allow excellent researchers (10 year track record) to pursue original new ideas in technical and natural sciences. The grant can also be used to attract excellent foreign researchers to DTU. You can apply for up to DKK 30 million for a six-year period. Applicants in the 2024 call, who was not invited for an interview, are ineligible to apply for this Villum Investigator call. Applicants in the 2026 call who are not invited for an interview will be ineligible to apply in the next Villum Investigator call in 2028. Villum Investigators can re-apply at the end of their grant period in open competition with other applicants; in this call there is an indicative amount of DKK 90 million to be available for present Villum Investigators re-applying.

Deadline: 20 August at 14.00 hrs. Expected reply: November (interview or rejection) - March 2027 (final rejection or approval).

MUDP – Demonstration of full-scale solutions within environmental Technologies

MUDP supports demonstration of a full-scale solution within environmental Technologies. See prioritized areas in the call text. There will be 61 million available for this call in 2026. 

Deadline: 25 August at 12.00 hrs. Expected reply: Medio December

Leo Foundation - Research grants in open competition

LEO Foundation research grants are open competition grants given to support the best dermatology research projects worldwide. We welcome applications for research projects that improve the understanding of skin biology as well as the underlying medicinal, biological, chemical, or pharmacological mechanisms of dermatological diseases and their symptoms. The typical amount approved for funding of a research grant is DKK 2-4 million.

Deadline: 25 August at 16.00 hrs. Expected reply: December 2026

Horizon Europe - ERC Advanced Grant

If you are an excellent researcher with an impressive 10 year track record, then you can apply for an ERC advanced grant. The advanced grant award is up to Euro 2.500.000 for a period of 5 years.

Deadline: 27 August. Expected reply: June 2027

Innovation Fund Denmark – Grand Solutions - Defense technology and innovation

You can apply for typically around DKK 5-30 million investment during a 1-5 year period for a collaborative projects with multiple parties (including end-user/industry) in a public-private partnership. The call is aimed at ambitious research and innovation projects within both single-use defense technology and dual-use critical technologies. These could include projects within surveillance and protection, cyber security, critical infrastructure, unmanned systems, sensor technologies and maritime solutions. The projects must be based on specific defense technology challenges and are expected to be implemented in collaboration between, among others, universities, research institutions, GTS institutes, companies and relevant public authorities. The total budget for the call is DKK 105 million. The application process is one-stage with full application.

Deadline: 1 September at 12.00 hrs. Expected reply: December 2026

TrygFonden -  Projects

The foundation works to make Denmark a safer place to be. They support research projects within their 5 overall goals. After the end of the project the results should be ready for embedment in society. 

Deadline: 1September at 12.00 hrs. Expected reply: 4 months after deadline (7 months if external review)

Carlsberg Foundation - Semper Ardens Accelerete

Newly appointed associate professors (max 2 years standing) can apply for DKK 7 million for a 3-4 year fellowships to establish an independent research group or research environment. 

Deadline: Most likely 1 September. Expected reply: Mid December 2026

Carlsberg Foundation - Semper Ardens Advance

Internationally recognised professors can apply for DKK 15-25 million for a 5 year grant to pursue visionary research projects at the highest international level, aiming for scientific breakthroughs. Projects venturing into new scientific territory will be prioritised. The grant will be offered every other year.

Deadline: Most likely 1 September. Expected reply: December 2026

Carlsberg Foundation - Various calls

The foundation have various calls for the 1 October deadline, e.g. research infrastructure, digital research infrastructure, and reintegration fellowships.

Deadline: Most likely 1 September. Expected reply: December 2026

Independent Research Fund Denmark – Arctic research (thematic research)

You can apply for up to DKK 5 million (excl. overhead and up to 5 years) for Arctic research within and across different scientific areas. The prioritisation can, among other things, contribute to increased knowledge on climate change, security political circumstances, and social, cultural and historical circumstances and changes in Arctic communities. Your application must include at least one PhD student or postdoctoral candidate. The project must be led by an applicant and a named Co-PI. 

Deadline: 2 september at 12.00 hrs - Expected reply: December 2026  

Horizon Europe - ERC Plus Grant

If you are an excellent researcher and undisputed leader of your research field, then you can apply for an ERC Plus Grant. The Plus Grant award is up to Euro 7 million for a period of 4-7 years. Applications for ERC Plus Grants should be for projects that could not be carried out with a regular ERC grant, for example because it aims to transform the field or open new avenues of research. You should be aware that every year, only some 30 ERC Plus Grants can be awarded, compared to approximately 1000 Starting, Consolidator and Advanced Grants. This level of competitiveness should be taken into account when considering whether to submit an application. 

Deadline: 2 September at 17.00 hrs. Expected reply: June 2027

Novo Nordisk Foundation – Exploratory Interdisciplinary Synergy Programme

You can apply for up to DKK 6,8 mill. for a period of 3 years. The Programme is designed to fund the exploration of untested research ideas that require an interdisciplinary approach and demonstrate the potential to have a high level of impact, i.e. high- risk/high-gain. Research must align with NNF’s strategic focus areas of Biomedical Sciences, Biotechnology, and Natural and Technical Sciences, with applicability in health or sustainability. Research within Social Sciences and Humanities can be an element of the proposal but cannot be the primary drive. Applicants that already have preliminary data are encouraged to consider the full Interdisciplinary Synergy Programme as an alternative.

Deadline: 3 September at 14.00 hrs. Expected reply: End of December 2026

Novo Nordisk Foundation – Project grants supporting societal learning for the green transition - 2026

The Novo Nordisk Foundation wishes to support societal learning to help accelerate the green transition of society. The purpose of this call is to support projects and initiatives that will innovate, implement and/or scale up more sustainable behaviour and practices among individuals, communities, and organisations in Denmark. A total of up to DKK 30 million is available for grants up to 6 million for projects of up to 3 years duration. 

Deadline: 3 September at 14.00 hrs. Expected reply: December 2026 

Novo Nordisk Foundation – Project Grants for Research within Nutrition Related to CMDs

You can apply for up to DKK 4 million (DKK 5 million if the project includes an international co-applicant) for projects lasting up to three years. The purpose of the grant is to develop new understandings and the translation/implementation of new and existing knowledge into society within prevention and management of nutrition related CMDs, as well as to support science capital in Denmark within nutritional sciences.

Deadline: 8 September at 13.00 hrs. Expected reply: December 2026

Danish National Research Foundation - Centres of Excellence (CoE)

The objective of the CoE program is to strengthen Danish research by providing the best possible working conditions and organizational set-up for selected top researchers. A center grant is large and flexible, and a center may have a lifetime of up to 10 years. The funding is often around DKK 10 million each year.

Deadline: 11September at 12.00 hrs. (Letter of interest). Expected reply: Mid January 2027 - full application 1 April 2027.

EUDP (energy)

EUDP supports development and demonstration of new energy technologies. Research can be supported if it is part of development and demonstration projects. Industry participation and co-financing is strongly recommended. In 2025 there will be DKK 200 million available for EUDP applications and Green Lab DK applications. Furthermore, there are DKK 98,9 million available for a special call about pyrolysis.

Deadline: Most likely in September. Expected reply: December 2026

Novo Nordisk Foundation - Molecular Mechanisms Linking Obesity and Cancer (MMLOC)

Grants between DKK 8 and 12 million can be awarded for a collaborative research project for a 4-year period (2026-2029). Molecular Mechanisms Linking Obesity and Cancer (MMLOC) grants support collaborative research projects with the purpose ‘to reverse-translate clinical observations into mechanistic studies that will increase our understanding of how obesity impacts carcinogenesis’. Only applications where one basic and one clinical researcher establish a collaboration can be considered for funding. 

Deadline: Most likely in September (if repeated in 2026). Expected reply: December 2026 

Novo Nordisk Foundation - Metabolic Ageing – Collaborative project grants for studying ageing and metabolic dysfunction

The research project must be collaborative with a unifying vision and focus on understanding of the molecular mechanisms behind the connection between ageing and metabolic dysfunction. Grants between DKK 10 to 15 million can be awarded for research projects lasting a 4-year period. A total of up to DKK 2 million will be awarded to one of the funded research projects to organise the Nordic metabolic ageing research network activities.

Deadline: Most likely in spetember (if repeated in 2026). Expected reply: December 2026

Novo Nordisk Foundation – MicroMAX Collaborative Research Grant 

You can apply for DKK 2-7 million for 2-4 year. With the MicroMAX Collaborative Research Grants, the Novo Nordisk Foundation wishes to strengthen the user community at the MicroMAX beamline, which is located at the MAX IV Synchrotron in Lund, Sweden. The projects should be within the Foundation’s strategic focuses on biomedicine, health sciences, sustainability, biotechnology, natural and technical sciences, or data science. Applications within natural, technical, or computational sciences must explicitly describe how the research enabled by the research infrastructure may have potential future applications in health or sustainability.

Deadline: 15 September at 14.00 hrs. Expected reply: March 2027

Novo Nordisk Foundation - Project Grants in Natural and Technical Sciences

The objective of this call is to promote Danish fundamental research at the highest international level within the natural and technical sciences, particularly for projects with potential interdisciplinary applications within life science, health science, or sustainability. You can apply for up to DKK 4 million for up to 3 years. The application must describe how the outcome of the project has potential future applications within life science, health sciences, or sustainability.

Deadline: Most likely in September. Expected reply: December 2026

Novo Nordisk Foundation - Project Grants in Bioscience and Basic Biomedicine

You can apply for up to DKK 4,5 million for 3 years for a research project within the field of bioscience and basic biomedicine which are relevant for understanding the human organism and/or the basal mechanisms underlying health and disease. Annual theme in 2025 was T-cell Biology. The supported research will typically be carried out in animals, model systems, cellular or subcellular systems, or in silico.

Deadline: Most likely in September. Expected reply: December 2026

Horizon Europe - MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships - Global Fellowships (GF)

Fund the mobility of researchers outside Europe. The fellowship lasts 2 to 3 years. The first 1 to 2 years will be spent in a non-associated Third Country, followed by a mandatory return phase of 1 year to an organisation based in an EU Member State or Horizon Europe Associated Country. Only nationals or long-term residents (>5y) of the EU Member States or Horizon Europe Associated Countries can apply. The Global fellowships are relevant for young researchers at DTU who would like to go abroad outside Europe.

Deadline: Most likely in September. Expected reply: February 2027

Horizon Europe - MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships - European Fellowships (EF)

Are open to researchers moving within Europe or coming to Europe from another part of the world to pursue their research career. These fellowships take place in an EU Member State or Horizon Europe Associated Country and can last between 1 and 2 years. Researchers of any nationality can apply. The European fellowships are relevant both for young researchers at DTU who would like to go abroad within Europe, and for researchers at DTU who would like to recruit a young researcher on an MSCA fellowship. Postdocs employed at DTU after 11 September 2023 are eligible to apply for a European fellowship to stay at DTU. The MSCA mobility rule is that the candidate must not have been working/residing in the host country for more than 12 out of the last 36 months before deadline.

Deadline: Most likely in September. Expected reply: February 2027 

Novo Nordisk Foundation – Distinguished Innovator Grant

The purpose of the Distinguished Innovator Grant Sustainability & Health is to accelerate commercialization of research findings and development of novel technologies within sustainability or health. You can apply up to DKK 7,6 million for a period of 3 years. Both areas of the Distinguished Innovator Grant are aimed for senior faculty members or researchers with a proven track record within innovation, i.e., previous experience of academic innovation projects and experience with establishing patents and spinouts from the academia. Particular focus will be placed on projects covering cardiometabolic diseases as well as infectious diseases and preventive solutions hereto. The projects described must have a clear outlook to scaling potentials and later commercialization possibilities. 

Deadline: Most likely in September. Expected reply: December 2026 

Novo Nordisk Foundation - Regenerative Medicine Catalyst Grant 2026

The proposed programme focuses on catalysing solutions to current challenges in the regenerative medicine (RM) field, thereby advancing the field, strengthening the Nordic RM ecosystem, promoting international collaboration, and lowering time- and cost-barriers to RM therapies. Projects focussed on immune cell-based therapy, such as CAR T- and NK-cell therapy, as well as projects with a focus on gene therapy, will not be prioritised. You can apply for up to DKK 5 million for 3 years (standard projects) or DKK 10 million (collaborative projects). The total grant budget is DKK 100 million, which can be awarded over up to three years (2026-2028), meaning that this call will recur in 2026 and potentially in 2027.

Deadline: Most likely in September (if also announced in 2026). Expected reply phase 1: October 2026. Phase 2: April 2027

Horizon Europe – EIC Transition

You can apply for up to EUR 2.5 million for results stemming from eligible EIC Pathfinder, FET, ERC Proof-of-concept, and EDF projects. EIC Transition projects should address both technology and market/business development, possibly including iterative learning processes based on early customer or user feedback.

Deadline: 16 September.

Novo Nordisk Foundation - Project Grants for research within Nutrition related to CMDS

You can apply for up to DKK 4 million for projects lasting up to 3 years. The purpose of the ‘Project Grants for research within nutrition related CMDs’ is to develop new understandings and the translation/implementation of new and existing knowledge into society within prevention and management of nutrition related CMDs, as well as to support science capital in Denmark within nutritional sciences.

Deadline: Most likely in October. Expected reply: December 2026 

Lundbeckfonden – Lundbeckfonden Professorships

The purpose of the Lundbeck Foundation professorship programme is to support the development of a research environment centred on an internationally recognised scientist and research leader in order to advance ground-breaking research. We expect the Lundbeck Foundation Professor to make significant contributions to research and, at the same time, develop and mentor junior researchers. The research should be within the field of basic or clinical neuroscience, or science with clear relevance to neuroscience. The term ‘neuroscience’ is used here in its broadest sense, hence including medical, technical, natural and social sciences as well as humanities. You can apply for DKK 20-40 million for a period of six years with an option for renewal for up to six years. We expect to award 4-6 grants.

Deadline: Most likely October 2026.  

Independent Research Fund Denmark – Research Project 2

You can apply for DKK 2.55 - 4.45 million excl. overhead for your bottom-up research project with a duration of up to 4,5 years. You must possess considerable, independent research experience at a high, international level. Furthermore, you must have obtained your PhD or achieved equivalent qualifications, at least 8 years before the expiration of the application deadline.

Deadline: 7 October at 12.00 hrs. Expected reply: May 2027

Independent Research Fund Denmark – Sapere Aude, Starting Grant

Sapere Aude: DFF-Research Leader is aimed at providing excellent younger researchers, i.e., researchers who have carried out top class research in their field, with the opportunity to develop and strengthen their research ideas as well as their competencies as independent research leaders of other researchers. The funding instrument also aims at promoting careers, international as well as national mobility among research environments, and to strengthen networks. The grant also strengthens the possibility for excellent younger researchers to return to a Danish research institution after a research stay abroad. The starting grant is aimed at researchers, who at the time of the application deadline, and within the last 3-8 years, have obtained their PhD. You can apply for DKK 4.45 million excl. overhead for a duration of up to 4 years.

Deadline: 7 October at 12.00 hrs. Expected reply: June 2027

Novo Nordisk Foundation - Challenge Programme 2027

NNF Challenge Programme 2027 fund excellent research leaders from 2-4 research groups (main applicant plus 1-3 co-applicants) that will establish and collaborate in a dynamic centre structure with a unifying vision and mission. You can apply for DKK 30-75 million for 6 years. The 2027 themes are: 1) Advancing Next Generation AMR Diagnostics for Lower Respiratory Tract Infections, 2) Heat and hypertension – understanding the mechanisms of interaction, 3) Unravelling electron transfer mechanisms in hybrid bio-electrocatalysis, and 4) Harnessing novel Earth-abundant materials for sustainable technologies

Deadline: 7 October at 14.00 hrs.  Expected reply: Stage-1 December 2026 and stage-2 June 2027

Novo Nordisk Foundation – Start Package Grants

You can apply for up to DKK 9 million to recruit top researchers of any nationality to time-unlimited research positions within medical sciences, life sciences, sustainability, or natural and technical sciences. The grant is intended to provide leverage for the hiring institution during contract negotiations and to accompany the offer of a time-unlimited position at the associate- or full professor level, or of a tenure track position at the assistant professor level. The aim is also to enhance researcher mobility across borders, among Danish universities and from industry to university. A start package grant will provide the host institute with funding that must be used in connection with the candidate’s establishment of an independent research group at the host institution. Only applications submitted by the Head of the recruiting institution (the person with the authority to make employment decisions) will be considered for funding. If the recruitment occurs within Denmark, the candidate must be offered a position with career progression. The recruiting institution’s assessment/appointment committee must have at least two external members, of which at least one must be international,  and members’ names, titles, and affiliations must be disclosed. The call is open all year and grants are awarded four times per year, with a quarterly submission deadline.  

Deadline: Most likely in October. Expected reply: late November 2026

Horizon Europe - ERC starting grant

If you are an excellent researcher with an impressive track record, and your PhD has been awarded at least 2 and up to 7 years prior to 1st January 2026, then you can apply for an ERC starting grant. The starting grant award is up to Euro 1.500.000 for a period of 5 years. 

Deadline: 14 October. Expected reply: August 2027  

The Danish Maritime Fund

The Danish Maritime Fund provides financial support to initiatives and undertakings, which may serve to develop and promote Danish shipping- and shipbuilding industries. You can apply for applied research projects within technology and business Development. You can also apply for relevant maritime conferences, events and meetings as well as industrial product development. There are four deadlines each year.

Deadline: 22 October. Expected reply: Mid December 2026

Lundbeck Foundation – Lundbeck Foundation Start-Up Programme

The purpose of the Lundbeck Foundation Start-Up programme is to support the development of Danish neuroscience by facilitating the process for recruiting researchers to Danish Universities or hospitals from abroad or from industry. You can apply for DKK 7 mill for up to 4 years for associate professors and DKK 11 mill for up to 4 years for full professors. University or hospital leaders with hiring authority for permanent positions can apply for the grant. The research should be within the field of basic or clinical neuroscience, or science with clear relevance to neuroscience. The term ‘neuroscience’ is used here in its broadest sense, hence including medical, technical, natural and social sciences as well as humanities. The call will have quarterly deadlines.

Deadline: 22 October. Expected reply: One month after deadline 

Horizon Europe – EIC Pathfinder Challenges

EIC Pathfinder Challenges supports cutting-edge projects that would contribute to the specific objectives of the respective Challenge. The challenges for 2025 were: ”Solar-to-X” devices, Towards cement and concrete as a carbon sink, Nature inspired alternatives for food packaging and films for agriculture, Nanoelectronics for energy-efficient smart edge devices, and Strengthening the sustainability and resilience of EU space infrastructure. You can apply for up to EUR 4 million.

Deadline: Most likely in October 

Novo Nordisk Foundation –  NNF Laureate Research Grant

NNF Laureate Research Grant is for recruitment or retainment of an outstanding established biomedical researcher to come to Denmark from abroad or stay in Denmark to further expand their research. The grant should also facilitate collaboration across scientific and geographic borders, thereby strengthening the Danish biomedical research environment to meet societal challenges. You can apply for DKK 60 million for up to 7 years.

Deadline: Most likely in October. Expected reply: Mid December 2026

ERC Synergy call

ERC Synergy Grants are intended to enable 2-4 principal investigators (all of them have ERC potential) to bring together their complementary skills, knowledge and resources in new ways, in order to jointly address ambitious research problems that could lead to breakthroughs that would not be possible by the individual PIs working alone. The grant will be maximum Euro 10 million for up to 6 years.

Deadline: Most likely in May 2027. Expected reply: April 2028

Horizon Europe – MSCA Doctoral Networks

Together with two or more European partners you can apply for up to 15 PhD-stipends for a common research programme, including joint research training. The aim is for the researcher to experience different sectors and develop their transferable skills by working on joint research projects.

Deadline: Most likely in November. Expected reply: April 2027

Villum Foundation – VILLUM Experiment

With the Villum Experiment Programme the foundation is ready to take a chance and support the ideas which have a limited chance of succeeding, but hold great potential if they do. The ideas might hold, e.g., the potential to answer a long-standing question in science, bring a transformative understanding of a central topic, nurture a fruitful new research area or create the foundation of a novel method or technology. You can apply for up to DKK 2,5 million for up to two years. The applicant most hold a doctoral degree or similar. Researchers who already hold a grant from Villum Foundation ending later than 31 December 2027 are not eligible to apply. 

Deadline: Most likely in January (expression of interest). Full application (if selected): most likely in March. Expected reply: September 2027

Novo Nordisk Foundation – Research Infrastructure - Large Equipment and Facilities

You can apply for DKK 5-25 million to support the establishment and maintenance of open-access infrastructures needed to achieve excellence in research and innovation (up to 6 years funding). The applicant, who should hold a PhD, must be employed and have his/her primary affiliation as senior scientist, academic technical staff (“AC-TAP”), associate professor, or professor in a time-unlimited position, at a university or other not-for-profit research institution in Denmark. The applicant must document expertise at the highest level within the relevant research field. In addition to the main applicant, the application must include a group of three to five core users associated with a Danish research environment, committed to use the equipment or facility.

Deadline: Most likely in January. Expected reply: September 2027

Novo Nordisk Foundation - Exploratory Research Instrumentation

You can apply for DKK 2-7,6 million for up to 4 years to strengthen the Danish research and innovation environments by the development of new research instrumentation and methodology, that is not commercially available today and/or is significantly more sustainable or otherwise advantageous than commercially available solutions. The goal of the programme is to: a) Develop novel research instrumentation and methodology from idea to prototype. b) Create a strong Danish ecosystem for technology and method development. c) Facilitate new research and insights, as well as new research infrastructures. A total of up to DKK 21 million was available for grants in 2026.

Deadline: Most likely in January. Expected reply: September 2027

Leo Foundation - Research grants in open competition

LEO Foundation research grants are open competition grants given to support the best dermatology research projects worldwide. They welcome applications for research projects that improve the understanding of skin biology as well as the underlying medicinal, biological, chemical, or pharmacological mechanisms of dermatological diseases and their symptoms. The typical amount approved for funding of a research grant is DKK 2-4 million.

Deadline: Most likely in January.

Lundbeckfonden – Collaborative Projects

You can apply for up to DKK 20 or 40 million for a period of 5 years. The purpose of Lundbeck Foundation Collaborative Projects is to foster excellent interdisciplinary research within brain-related topics. With this programme we aim to create synergies between neuroscience and other research fields or between different disciplines of neuroscience. The ambition is to foster collaborations that will significantly impact neuroscience and have potential implications for human health. The grants are intended to add significant value to the existing research environments. Approaches bridging basic science and clinical research will be given priority. You and your co-applicant(s) should be internationally recognised researchers with a track record of significant research achievements during the last 10 years. 

Deadline expression of interest: Most likely in January. Expected reply: Decision on step 2 in March 2027 - final decision November 2027

Novo Nordisk Foundation – Investigator grants for research within Plant Science, Agriculture and Food Biotechnology 2026 - Nordic Region

The Novo Nordisk Foundation (NNF) seeks to support 1) young and promising research leaders (emerging), or 2) the consolidation of accomplished associate professors (ascending) with ambitious projects that address major challenges within plant science, agriculture and food biotechnology. The research should be based on life science research disciplines. You can apply for a 5 year grant of up to DKK 12,5 million.

Deadline: Most likely in January. Expected reply: April 2027

Novo Nordisk Foundation – Investigator grants for research within Industrial Biotechnology and Environmental Biotechnology 2026 - Nordic Region

The Novo Nordisk Foundation (NNF) seeks to support 1) young and promising research leaders (emerging), or 2) the consolidation of accomplished associate professors (ascending) with ambitious projects that address major challenges within industrial biotechnology or environmental biotechnology. The research should be fundamental in character but have a strategic outlook to scaling potential(s), contribute to sustainability and, if relevant, increase productivity. You can apply for a 5 year grant of up to DKK 12,5 million.

Deadline: Most likely in January. Expected reply: April 2027

Novo Nordisk Foundation - Investigator grants for research within Bioscience and basic Biomedicine

The Novo Nordisk Foundation (NNF) seeks to support 1) young and promising research leaders, or 2) the consolidation of accomplished associate professors or 3) outstanding professors with ambitious projects relevant to understanding the human organism and/or basal mechanisms underlying health and disease. You can apply for a 5 year grant of up to DKK 12,5 million.

Deadline: Most likely in January. Expected reply: April 2027

Horizon Europe - ERC consolidator grant

If you are an excellent researcher with an impressive track record, and your PhD has been awarded at least 7 and up to 12 years prior to 1st January 2025, then you can apply for an ERC consolidator grant. The consolidator grant award is up to Euro 2.000.000 for a period of 5 years.

Deadline: 12 January. Expected reply: November 2027  

The Danish Maritime Fund

The Danish Maritime Fund provides financial support to initiatives and undertakings, which may serve to develop and promote Danish shipping- and shipbuilding industries. You can apply for applied research projects within technology and business development. You can also apply for relevant maritime conferences, events and meetings as well as industrial product development. There are four deadlines each year. 

Deadline: Most likely in January. Expected reply: end March 2027

Novo Nordisk Foundation – Investigator grants for researchers within endocrinology and metabolism - Nordic Region

The Novo Nordisk Foundation (NNF) seeks to support 1) young and promising research leaders, or 2) the consolidation of accomplished associate professors or 3) outstanding professors with ambitious projects within endocrinology and metabolism to understand the human organism and the mechanisms underlying health and disease at a basic and clinical level. You can apply for a 5 year grant of up to DKK 12,5 million.

Deadline: Most likely in January. Expected reply: May 2027

Danish Cancer Society – yearly call 

The Danish Cancer Society funds research project, secondments, guest researchers, travel, scholar stipends and other research related activities within the research field of experimental, clinical and epidemiological cancer research. In 2026 you could also apply for calls within the "Knæk Cancer" call (up to DKK 60 million for strategic cancer research and development projects). 

Deadline: Most likely in January.   

 

Novo Nordisk Foundation –  Tandem Programme - Translational Research Collaboration between Basic and Clinical Researchers

With the present call ‘Tandem Programme’ The Novo Nordisk Foundation wishes to strengthen and support Danish translational health research of high international quality. Collaborative project applications from one basic and one clinical researcher, that seek to stimulate the transition of basic research to clinical practice and vice versa are invited. You can apply for up to DKK 13 million for a 4 year project. 

Deadline: Most likely in January. Expected reply: June 2027  

 

   

Novo Nordisk Foundation – Start Package Grants

You can apply for up to DKK 10 million to recruit top researchers of any nationality to time-unlimited research positions within medical sciences, life sciences, sustainability, or natural and technical sciences. The grant is intended to provide leverage for the hiring institution during contract negotiations and to accompany the offer of a time-unlimited position at the associate- or full professor level, or of a tenure track position at the assistant professor level. The aim is also to enhance researcher mobility across borders, among Danish universities and from industry to university. A start package grant will provide the host institute with funding that must be used in connection with the candidate’s establishment of an independent research group at the host institution. Only applications submitted by the Head of the recruiting institution (the person with the authority to make employment decisions) will be considered for funding. If the recruitment occurs within Denmark, the candidate must be offered a position with career progression. The recruiting institution’s assessment/appointment committee must have at least two external members, of which at least one must be international,  and members’ names, titles, and affiliations must be disclosed. The call is open all year and grants are awarded four times per year, with a quarterly submission deadline.  

Deadline: Most likely in February. Expected reply: Mid March 2027  

Lundbeck Foundation – Lundbeck Foundation Start-Up Programme

The purpose of the Lundbeck Foundation Start-Up programme is to support the development of Danish neuroscience by facilitating the process for recruiting researchers to Danish Universities or hospitals from abroad or from industry. You can apply for DKK 7 mill for up to 4 years for associate professors and DKK 11 mill for up to 4 years for full professors. University or hospital leaders with hiring authority for permanent positions can apply for the grant. The research should be within the field of basic or clinical neuroscience, or science with clear relevance to neuroscience. The term ‘neuroscience’ is used here in its broadest sense, hence including medical, technical, natural and social sciences as well as humanities. The call will have quarterly deadlines.

Deadline: Most likely in February. Expected reply: One month after deadline  

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark - Danida Fellowship Centre

You can apply for up to DKK 10 million for a 5 year research collaboration project with partners from countries with expanded and targeted development cooperation (see the call for application for more details).

Deadline: Most likely in February. Expected reply: April/June (stage 1) and December (stage 2).  

GUDP (food, climate, environment)

GUDP supports green development and demonstration projects within the Danish food sector. The projects should be economical sustainable and solve some of the climate and environmental problems that the society faces. Please read more about the priorities in the call text. Industrial participation and co-financing is required. You can apply for DKK 0.25-15 million. In 2026 there will be around DKK 100 million available for the call.

Deadline: Most likely in February. reply: End June 2027

Novo Nordisk Foundation – New Exploratory Research and Discovery (NERD) 

The purpose of the NERD programme is to support creative, daring, and ambitious researchers (any career stage after obtaining the PhD degree) within the natural and technical sciences, including, e.g., physics, chemistry, mathematics, computer science, and technical sciences. You can apply for DKK 16 million for 6 years. The grant is aimed at supporting a single principal investigator (PI) with ample funding and a long time horizon, providing the required long-term stability and continuity to explore truly exceptional ideas with potential application within the life sciences, health sciences or sustainability. The NERD programme uses a two-stage evaluation procedure. At the first stage, applicants will remain anonymous to the evaluation committee, ensuring that emphasis is put on the suggested scientific ideas. The top evaluated applications will proceed to the second stage, where the CVs and publication lists of the applicants will be included to assess the feasibility of the proposed projects. To ensure that the PI will dedicate time and effort to the proposed research, during the year of commencing the NERD project, the applicant cannot have a grant portfolio as PI exceeding an annual total of DKK 4.0 million (including possible overhead). Grants where the applicant is co-PI are not included in this total.

Deadline: Most likely in February. Expected reply: End June 2027 

Villum Foundation - Villum Synergy Programme

The point of departure for the Villum Synergy programme lies in the research opportunities at the interface between the core data sciences (notably, computer science, statistics, and applied mathematics) and other disciplines. This call is an opportunity to create excellent interdisciplinary research, by bringing together a team of research experts from different disciplines to work together on a joint research challenge. Projects should involve two PIs that are both affiliated with a Danish research institution. One should a be methodological expert from computer science, statistics or applied mathematics and the other a domain expert from a field of application that may be broadly chosen (excluding health sciences). PI’s must hold tenure. You can apply for Initiation project grants for up to DKK 4,5 million for up to three years for new collaborations or DKK 9-14 million for three to five years for projects involving well established collaborations. DKK 60 million is allocated to this call in 2026.

Deadline: Most likely in February. Expected reply: Decision in May regarding step-2. Final decision in early October 2027 

EUDP (energy)

EUDP supports development and demonstration of new energy technologies. Research can be supported if it is part of development and demonstration projects. Industry participation and co-financing is strongly recommended. In 2026 there will be DKK 380 million available for funding for the general call as well as specific calls.

Deadline: Most likely in February. Expected reply: June 2027

Novo Nordisk Foundation - RECRUIT - Grants for International Recruitment 2026

The purpose of the RECRUIT grants is to strengthen Danish universities in the international competition of recruiting the most talented or leading researchers from abroad by providing ample funding across a broad timeframe. Candidates for RECRUIT must be considered ambitious and excellent at their career level. The candidate’s research should bring substantial value and/or novelty to a research field that has strategic relevance to the recruiting university. The candidates research focus must lie within natural and technical sciences or biotechnology and sustainability (see themes in the guidelines). Up to DKK 22 to 55 million for the recruitment of up to 7 years. DTU can only apply for DKK 200 million, thus there will be an internal selection process at DTU (please contact Mette Christiansen). The internal deadline was in November 2025 for the 2026 call. DTU must by submission deadline submit a complete list of the nominated candidates and of the respective budgets requested for each candidate.

Deadline: Most likely in February. Expected reply: August 2027

GreenLab - Research Fellowship Call for 2027-2029

GreenLab launches a new call for applications for three research fellowships. The collaboration supports mission-driven research that advances the green transition in practice. Overall theme: From concept to documented impact: Implementing sector-coupled energy systems through eco-industrial parks The call is open to researchers of any nationality and from all disciplines with research profiles relevant to the thematic scope of the call. The position is a Postdoc position affiliated to a Danish university. The ideal candidate has a collaborative research mindset and sees interdisciplinary work as a key driver for their future career. 

Deadline: Most likely in February. 

Independent Research Fund Denmark - Green Research (thematic research)

You can apply for up to DKK 5 million (excl. overhead) for green, independent, and curiosity-driven research (up to 5 years duration). The project should promote researchers’ own original ideas that can contribute to the green transition. Your application must include at least one PhD student or postdoctoral candidate. This requirement is intended to support the growth layer in Danish research. There is a general requirements of a Co-Principal Investigator.

Deadline: 24 February at 12.00 hrs. Expected reply:-

Independent Research Fund Denmark - Research on artificial intelligence (thematic research)

You can apply for up to DKK 5 million (excl. overhead) for research on artificial intelligence with a special focus on responsible development and use of the technology (up to 5 years duration). Your application must include at least one PhD student or postdoctoral candidate. There is a general requirements of a Co-Principal Investigator.

Deadline: 24 February at 12.00 hrs. Expected reply: -

 

 

Carlsberg Foundation - Interdisciplinary Research Centers

You can apply for up to DKK 50 million for six years for an interdisciplinary research center. Each centre is to provide a framework for outstanding basic research and ground-breaking collaboration between and across at least two of the three research areas supported by the Carlsberg Foundation: the natural sciences, the social sciences and the humanities. The centres must address complex questions and challenges that can be explored and advanced across faculties and, ideally, universities. The centres should be designed to generate scientific breakthroughs through the exploration of bold, interdisciplinary questions. Extraordinary funding of DKK 150 million has been allocated for this call.

Deadline: Most likely in March. Expected reply: December 2026 

TrygFonden -  Projects

The foundation works to make Denmark a safer place to be. They support research projects within their 5 overall goals. After the end of the project the results should be ready for embedment in society. 

Deadline: Most likely in March. Expected reply: 4 months after deadline (7 months if external review) 

Innovation Fund Denmark – Grand Solutions 

You can apply for typically around DKK 5-40 million (depending on the specific call) investment during a 1-5 year period for a collaborative projects with multiple parties (including end-user/industry) in a public-private partnership. You can apply for the following prioritized areas: Green research, technology and innovation (DKK 100 million), Life science, health and welfare technology (DKK 100 million), Biotechnology and biosolutions (DKK 90 million), Critical and digital technologies including space technologies, AI and nuclear power (DKK 275,6 million, Quantum technologies (DKK 182,3 million). Grand Solutions projects typically have a high risk profile and focus on ambitious results with high value creation, whether in the form of new knowledge, improved and/or new processes, systems, products or solutions to politically prioritized societal challenges. 

Deadline letter of intend: Most likely in March. Expected reply stage 1 (letter of indend): Mid June 2027. Expected reply stage 2: Mid December 2027

Novo Nordisk Foundation – Data Science, Collaborative Research Programme

You can apply for up to DKK 40 million (up to 5 years) for collaborative research projects within datascience. The Data Science Collaborative Research Programme aims to support synergistic research collaborations rooted in data science and computational science with immediate or potential future applications within areas of relevance to NNF’s Strategy. The programme supports excellent independent research leaders at all career levels with ambitious projects within the field of data science. There will be DKK 99 million available for this call in 2026. 

Deadline: Most likely in March. Expected reply: December 2027 (phase-one result early June)   

Novo Nordisk Foundation – Distinguished Innovator Grant

The purpose of the Distinguished Innovator Grant Sustainability & Health is to accelerate commercialization of research findings and development of novel technologies within sustainability or health. You can apply up to DKK 7,6 million for a period of 3 years. Both areas of the Distinguished Innovator Grant are aimed for senior faculty members or researchers with a proven track record within innovation, i.e., previous experience of academic innovation projects and experience with establishing patents and spinouts from the academia. The projects described must have a clear outlook to scaling potentials and later commercialization possibilities. 

Deadline: Most likely in March. Expected reply: July 2027  

Leo Foundation –  Dr. Abildgaard Fellowships

The Fellowships are DKK 12 million grants supporting promising, emerging research leaders with ambitions to establish or expand an independent research group at a Danish institution, and to pursue novel and important research questions within skin and skin diseases. Previous years’ Fellowship calls have included specific research themes, but in 2025 there are no thematic requirements. The foundation expect to award up to five Fellowships this year. Eligible candidates have between two and eight years of research experience since completing their PhD degree.

Deadline: Most likely in March. Expected reply: September 2027  

Leo Foundation - Research grants in open competition

LEO Foundation research grants are open competition grants given to support the best dermatology research projects worldwide. They welcome applications for research projects that improve the understanding of skin biology as well as the underlying medicinal, biological, chemical, or pharmacological mechanisms of dermatological diseases and their symptoms. The typical amount approved for funding of a research grant is DKK 2-4 million.

Deadline: Most likely in March. Expected reply: July 2027 

Novo Nordisk Foundation - Female Heart, Clinical Mechanistic Grants

The purpose of the Female Heart – Mechanistic Research Grants is to enhance understanding of the mechanistic drivers of sex-related differences in cardiovascular disease by fostering European collaborative research projects anchored in the Nordics.. You can apply for up to DKK 15 million for a five-year project. The research project must involve international collaboration.

Deadline: Most likely in March, if the grant will be repeated. Expected reply: Mid November 2027

Novo Nordisk Foundation - Female Heart, Clinical Research Grants

The purpose of the Female Heart – Clinical Research Grants is to enhance clinical understanding of sex-related differences in cardiovascular disease by fostering global collaborative research projects anchored in the Nordics. You can apply for up to DKK 15-20 million for a five-year project. The research project must involve international collaboration.

Deadline: Most likely in March, if the grant will be repeated. Expected reply:Mid November 2027 

Novo Nordisk Foundation – Start Package Grants

You can apply for up to DKK 9 million to recruit top researchers of any nationality to time-unlimited research positions within medical sciences, life sciences, sustainability, or natural and technical sciences. The grant is intended to provide leverage for the hiring institution during contract negotiations and to accompany the offer of a time-unlimited position at the associate- or full professor level, or of a tenure track position at the assistant professor level. The aim is also to enhance researcher mobility across borders, among Danish universities and from industry to university. A start package grant will provide the host institute with funding that must be used in connection with the candidate’s establishment of an independent research group at the host institution. Only applications submitted by the Head of the recruiting institution (the person with the authority to make employment decisions) will be considered for funding. If the recruitment occurs within Denmark, the candidate must be offered a position with career progression. The recruiting institution’s assessment/appointment committee must have at least two external members, of which at least one must be international,  and members’ names, titles, and affiliations must be disclosed. The call is open all year and grants are awarded four times per year, with a quarterly submission deadline.  

Deadline: Most likely in April. Expected reply: Mid May 2027

Lundbeck Foundation – Lundbeck Foundation Start-Up Programme

The purpose of the Lundbeck Foundation Start-Up programme is to support the development of Danish neuroscience by facilitating the process for recruiting researchers to Danish Universities or hospitals from abroad or from industry. You can apply for DKK 7 mill for up to 4 years for associate professors and DKK 11 mill for up to 4 years for full professors. University or hospital leaders with hiring authority for permanent positions can apply for the grant. The research should be within the field of basic or clinical neuroscience, or science with clear relevance to neuroscience. The term ‘neuroscience’ is used here in its broadest sense, hence including medical, technical, natural and social sciences as well as humanities. The call will have quarterly deadlines.

Deadline: Most likely in April. Expected reply: One month after deadline   

Lundbeck Foundation and Novo Nordisk Foundation - Body-Brain Interdisciplinary Projects

The purpose of the Novo Nordisk Foundation’s and Lundbeck Foundation’s “Body-Brain Interdisciplinary Projects” initiative is to enhance the mechanistic understanding of body-brain interactions in health and disease (CMDs and NSDs) by fostering European collaborative and interdisciplinary research projects with a significant focus on scientific excellence. You can apply for DKK 15-20 million for a period of 5 years (5-6 grants are funded). Proposals may be between 2-3 applicants. At least one of the applicants must be anchored at a Danish host institution and at least one of the applicants must be anchored at a European (non-Danish) host institution.

Deadline: Unsure if the call will open again - if, then most likely in April (expression of interest). Deadline full application: August 13, 2027. Final decision: December 2027  

The Danish Maritime Fund

The Danish Maritime Fund provides financial support to initiatives and undertakings, which may serve to develop and promote Danish shipping- and shipbuilding industries. You can apply for applied research projects within technology and business development. You can also apply for relevant maritime conferences, events and meetings as well as industrial product development. There are four deadlines each year.

Deadline: Most likely in April. Expected reply: Medio/end June 2027

 

Independent Research Fund Denmark – Research Project 1

You can apply for DKK 2,255 million excl. overhead for your bottom-up research project with a duration of 3 years (up to 4 years if a PhD student is part of the project). 

Deadline: Most likely in May

Horizon Europe – EIC Pathfinder Open

EIC Pathfinder Open supports applications for projects aiming to provide the foundations for a radically new technology. Specifically, it supports early developments of future technologies based on high-risk/high-gain science-towards-technology breakthrough and interdisciplinary research. It offers grants of up to EUR 4 million to achieve the proof of principle and validate the scientific basis of breakthrough technology (TRL 1-4).

Deadline: Most likely in May

Novo Nordisk Foundation – Infectious Diseases Catalyst Grant 2027

The purpose of the “Infectious Diseases – Catalyst Grants” programme is to provide catalytic funding for exploratory research projects within the thematic research areas pathogenic fungi, novel antimicrobial resistance (AMR) tools, and harnessing innate immunity. Within these thematic areas, the aim is to stimulate Danish research, strengthen international collaborations, and to initiate innovative research projects with exceptional potential for future direct impact on global challenges. In 2025 you could apply for up to DKK 3,5 million (single PI) or up to DKK 6,5 million for collaborative projects (one PI plus one co-PI).

Deadline: Most likely in May

MUDP – Development, test and demonstration Projects

MUDP supports development and demonstration projects within environmental efficient solutions to prioritized environmental challenges. Industry participation and co-financing is required. See prioritized areas in the call text. There is DKK 61 million available for this call in 2026.

Deadline: Most likely in May

Novo Nordisk Foundation – Interdisciplinary Synergy Programme

You can apply for up to DKK 19,4 million for a 4 year period. The Programme is designed to fund research ideas grounded in robust preliminary data, which require and interdisciplinary approach and demonstrate the potential to have a high level of impact, i.e. high- risk/high-gain. Research must align with NNF’s strategic focus areas of Biomedical Sciences, Biotechnology, and Natural and Technical Sciences, with applicability in health or sustainability. Research within Social Sciences and Humanities can be an element of the proposal but cannot be the primary drive. Applicants with project ideas that have yet to secure preliminary data are encouraged to consider the Exploratory Interdisciplinary Synergy Programme as an alternative.

Deadline: Most likely in May

Updated 20 maj 2026