# Start Package Grants for Faculty Recruitment Q2 2026

**Funder:** Novo Nordisk Foundation
**Consortium:** No
**Application:** Single stage via NORMA application system
**Frequency:** Continuous
**Eligible countries:** DK
**Official call:** https://novonordiskfonden.dk/en/grant/start-package-grants-for-faculty-recruitment-q2-2026/
**Last verified:** 20 June 2026

## Eligibility & scope

Funds host institutions recruiting independent research group leaders in medical sciences, life sciences, sustainability, or natural/technical sciences aligned with NNF's 2030 Strategy. Grant must be used for the candidate's establishment of an independent research group. Detailed eligibility requirements for recruiting institution, position, and candidate in application guidelines.

## Summary

The Novo Nordisk Foundation Start Package Grants fund Danish host institutions recruiting independent research group leaders in medical sciences, life sciences, sustainability, or natural and technical sciences. The programme targets early-career researchers establishing their first independent labs, with funds used to cover recruitment and initial group setup costs. Calls run quarterly throughout the year, with awards made four times per year.

## Who should apply

- Early-career researchers establishing their first independent research group
- Host institutions in Denmark recruiting group leaders
- Researchers in medical sciences, life sciences, sustainability, or natural/technical sciences
- Projects aligned with the Novo Nordisk Foundation's 2030 Strategy

## Key dates

- Quarterly submission deadlines throughout the year (verify exact dates on the NORMA system)
- Single-stage application via the NORMA platform
- Grants awarded four times per year

## Tips for applicants

- This is an institutional award, not an individual grant, your hosting institution must initiate the application and ensure the position meets NNF's detailed eligibility requirements before you submit.
- Alignment with the Novo Nordisk Foundation's 2030 Strategy is a gating criterion; review the strategy document and make that fit explicit in your research statement.
- Use NORMA for submission; allow time to coordinate with your institution's research administration office, as they manage the institutional sign-off.

## Frequently asked questions

### What are the Start Package Grants designed to fund?

The grants support host institutions in recruiting and establishing independent research group leaders, covering costs associated with the early-career researcher's lab setup and group foundation.

### How often can I apply for a Novo Nordisk Foundation Start Package Grant?

Quarterly deadlines are offered throughout the year, with grants awarded four times per year; your institution may apply each cycle if a new eligible position is open.

### Which research areas are eligible?

Medical sciences, life sciences, sustainability, and natural/technical sciences aligned with the Novo Nordisk Foundation's 2030 Strategy.

### Do I apply directly or through my institution?

The host institution applies on your behalf via the NORMA application system; coordinate with your institution's research office to verify eligibility before submission.

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Source: [The Great Grantsby](https://grantsby.eu/grants/novo-nordisk-foundation-start-package-grants-for-faculty-recruitment-q2-20-2026) — EU grant monitoring for academic researchers. Always verify details on the funder's website before applying.