Novo Nordisk Foundation
Challenge Programme 2027 – Unravelling electron transfer mechanisms in hybrid bio-electrocatalysis
14:00 Copenhagen time
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The Novo Nordisk Foundation Challenge Programme 2027 funds consortium-led research into electron transfer mechanisms in hybrid bio-electrocatalysis, with DKK 30-75 million (€4-10 million) per grant over six years. Established research leaders and professor-level investigators form cross-institutional teams to tackle fundamental and applied challenges at the intersection of industrial and environmental biotechnology. This one-off call prioritises Danish and European research ecosystems, with international participation encouraged.
Details
| Funder | Novo Nordisk Foundation |
| Budget | DKK 30–75 million (ca. €4–10 million) |
| Deadline | 7 October 2026 |
| Duration | 6 years |
| Consortium | Required — consortium of 2-4 research groups (main applicant plus 1-3 co-applicants); main applicant at a European (EU, Schengen + UK) institution, at least one applicant must be at a Danish institution |
| Application | 2-stage: Stage 1 expression of interest → Stage 2 full proposal with review panel meeting |
| TRL | 1-3 |
| Frequency | Annual |
| Eligible countries | DK |
Recently updated
catalog cleanup 2026-07-04: Oct date was not the published Stage-1 deadline per NNF
Eligibility & scope
Interdisciplinary research (TRL 1-3) on electron transfer mechanisms in hybrid bio-electrocatalysis, combining biology, chemistry, materials science, physics and/or engineering. Main applicant must be tenured/tenure-track at a European university, hospital or non-profit research organisation with ≥75% employment; industry collaboration allowed but industrial partners cannot receive funding.
Who Should Apply
- •Established research leaders at professor level or equivalent
- •Research consortia with 2+ institutional partners and a unified mission
- •Teams addressing fundamental mechanisms in hybrid bio-electrocatalysis
- •Danish institutions as host; international collaborators eligible
- •Groups working at early TRL (proof-of-concept to pilot demonstration)
Key Dates
- •Application deadline 7 October 2026 at 2:00pm Copenhagen time
- •Two-stage evaluation: Stage 1 results announced December 2026, Stage 2 results June 2027
- •Six-year project duration
Tips for Applicants
- ✓Consortium architecture is gating: articulate a clear shared vision and mission that binds all partners; loose multi-lab collaborations score poorly.
- ✓Position your work at low TRL (1-3) with a credible path to proof-of-concept; the Foundation expects fundamental insight, not market-ready products.
- ✓Lead the application from a Danish institution if possible; the call aligns with NNF's strategic priority to strengthen Danish and European research capacity.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much funding does the Novo Nordisk Foundation Challenge Programme 2027 provide?
DKK 30-75 million per grant, approximately €4-10 million, over a six-year project period.
Who should lead a Challenge Programme 2027 application?
Established research leaders at professor level or equivalent, forming a consortium of at least two research partners with a unified vision.
What is the deadline for the Challenge Programme 2027?
Applications close 7 October 2026 at 2:00pm Copenhagen time, with a two-stage review process.
Can international researchers participate in the Challenge Programme 2027?
Yes, international collaborators are eligible, though the host institution and strategic priority favour Danish and European research ecosystems.
What research areas does the Challenge Programme 2027 support?
The call focuses exclusively on electron transfer mechanisms in hybrid bio-electrocatalysis, spanning industrial and environmental biotechnology applications.
Related on Grantsby
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Challenge Programme, full programme guide
Eligibility, budget, success rates, application timeline, FAQ.
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Challenge Programme past winners & funded projects
Recent recipients, host institutions, and funded project titles. See who tends to win before you apply.
Summary generated by AI based on published grant information. Always verify details on the funder's website.
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