# DFG Individual Research Grant

**Funder:** DFG
**Budget:** No fixed limit
**Duration:** 1-3 years
**Consortium:** No — single PI
**Application:** Rolling
**TRL:** Fundamental
**Frequency:** Continuous
**Eligible countries:** DE
**Official call:** https://www.dfg.de/en/research-funding/funding-opportunities/programmes
**Last verified:** 18 June 2026

## Summary

The DFG Individual Research Grant funds fundamental research projects across all disciplines in Germany, with budgets typically ranging from €200,000 to €1,000,000 over one to three years. Researchers at German institutions can submit applications continuously without fixed deadlines. This is a single-PI mechanism, ideal for established researchers pursuing independent, discipline-specific research lines.

## Who should apply

- Established researchers at German universities and research institutions
- Projects in any discipline with fundamental research focus
- Independent research agendas not requiring large consortia
- Researchers seeking 1-3 year project funding without fixed annual deadlines

## Key dates

- Continuous submission, apply any time without fixed deadline
- Rolling review and decision process
- Project duration 1-3 years

## Tips for applicants

- Rolling submission means no call cycle pressure, but plan for 6-9 month review turnaround before funding decision.
- Budget justification must be detailed and discipline-specific; generic cost tables trigger reviewer requests for revision.
- Single-PI structure favours projects with a clear conceptual lead; named collaborators strengthen feasibility but must not blur PI authorship.

## Frequently asked questions

### How much can I request in a DFG Individual Research Grant?

Budgets typically range from €200,000 to €1,000,000 depending on discipline and project scope; there is no fixed ceiling.

### Who is eligible for a DFG Individual Research Grant?

Researchers at German universities and recognised research institutions; researchers of any nationality may apply if based in Germany.

### When is the deadline for DFG Individual Research Grant applications?

There is no fixed deadline; applications are accepted on a rolling basis and reviewed continuously.

### How long does a DFG Individual Research Grant last?

Projects run for one to three years, depending on the research plan and funding approved.

### Can I include co-investigators in a DFG Individual Research Grant?

This is a single-PI mechanism; collaborators can be named in the project but the PI retains full responsibility and intellectual leadership.

---

Source: [The Great Grantsby](https://grantsby.eu/grants/dfg-individual-research-grant) — EU grant monitoring for academic researchers. Always verify details on the funder's website before applying.

**See which EU calls match your profile.** [Preview your matches in 30 seconds, no signup](https://grantsby.eu/demo?ref=llm_grant_md).