Novo Nordisk Foundation
Start Package Grants
2:00pm Copenhagen time
Last updated:
The Novo Nordisk Foundation Start Package Grants fund 4-year research programmes for newly recruited researchers at Danish universities and research institutions, with budgets from DKK 5 million (assistant/tenure-track) to DKK 10 million (full or clinical professor). The scheme aims to support the recruitment and establishment of top researchers of any nationality across all fields. Calls open quarterly, enabling multiple application windows per year.
Details
| Funder | Novo Nordisk Foundation |
| Budget | Up to DKK 10M per grant (DKK 5M for assistant professor, DKK 8M for associate professor, DKK 10M for full/clinical professor) |
| Deadline | 8 October 2026 |
| Duration | 4 years |
| Consortium | No |
| Application | Single stage |
| Frequency | Quarterly |
| Next round | 2026-10 |
| Eligible countries | DK |
Eligibility & scope
Supports Danish universities and research institutions in recruiting top researchers of any nationality. Grant accompanies a faculty position offer (tenure track, associate, full, or clinical professor). Host institution must be in Denmark. 4-year grant; Q1 2027 call opens 8 October 2026.
Who Should Apply
- •Newly recruited researchers at Danish universities or recognised research institutions
- •Assistant/tenure-track, associate, or full/clinical professors of any nationality
- •Researchers moving across borders or transitioning from industry to academia
- •All research fields eligible
Key Dates
- •Deadline 8 October 2026 at 2:00pm Copenhagen time
- •Single-stage application process
- •4-year project duration
- •Quarterly call schedule (next round October 2026)
Tips for Applicants
- ✓Tailor your budget request to your career stage, DKK 5M for assistant/tenure-track, DKK 8M for associate professor, DKK 10M for full/clinical professor; the funder uses these ceilings to assess competitiveness.
- ✓Emphasise your role as a newly recruited researcher or your transition narrative (from industry or abroad); this scheme exists to support recruitment and establishment, not continuation of existing labs.
- ✓The quarterly frequency means you can revise and resubmit if rejected; plan your timeline accordingly and watch for the next round announcement.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much can I receive from the Novo Nordisk Foundation Start Package Grant?
Up to DKK 5 million for assistant/tenure-track, DKK 8 million for associate professor, or DKK 10 million for full or clinical professor positions.
Who can apply for the Novo Nordisk Foundation Start Package Grant?
Newly recruited researchers of any nationality at Danish universities or research institutions across all fields.
How long is the Novo Nordisk Foundation Start Package Grant?
Four years.
When is the next deadline for the Novo Nordisk Foundation Start Package Grant?
8 October 2026 at 2:00pm Copenhagen time; calls open quarterly, so further rounds will follow.
Can international researchers apply to the Novo Nordisk Foundation Start Package Grant?
Yes, researchers of any nationality are eligible, provided they are appointed at a Danish host institution.
Summary generated by AI based on published grant information. Always verify details on the funder's website.
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