Published: June 12, 2026
Deadline: August 18, 2026
Locations: Denmark
The Novo Nordisk Foundation is inviting applications for its Investigator Led Clinical Research Grant Programme 2026. Eligible researchers are encouraged to review the details below and submit their applications before the deadline.
About the Programme
This grant programme is designed to enhance the capacity for conducting large scale clinical research in Denmark. It focuses on non commercial patient centred trials that aim to improve treatment protocols, patient care and overall clinical outcomes. The programme supports investigator initiated clinical trials where the primary responsibility for the study lies with the researcher rather than a commercial entity. This approach ensures that research priorities are driven by medical needs rather than market interests.
Funding is available for several types of clinical trials including single centre trials, multi centre national trials, and select international multi centre trials coordinated from or involving Denmark. The programme recognises that high quality clinical research often requires collaboration across multiple institutions and even across borders. As such, international trials that have a significant Danish contribution or coordination role are eligible for consideration.
Organisation: Novo Nordisk Foundation
Funding Benefits
Grant amounts range from DKK 6 million to DKK 22 million per project. This level of funding is intended to support larger clinical trials that require substantial resources including research personnel, patient recruitment, data management, and regulatory compliance. The funding covers direct costs associated with conducting the trial as well as indirect costs that are necessary for successful project completion.
Eligibility Requirements
The grant does not support clinical trials with direct industrial or commercial objectives. This includes trials primarily designed to test products for market approval or commercialisation. The focus is instead on trials that address important clinical questions and have the potential to improve standard medical practice.
Lead Applicant Criteria
The lead applicant must hold an MD and be a certified specialist physician. This requirement ensures that the principal investigator has the necessary medical expertise to oversee patient centred research. The lead applicant must be employed at a hospital in Denmark where the research project is based. This anchor institution serves as the primary location for trial coordination and oversight.
The lead applicant must serve as the primary driver and Principal Investigator of the trial. This means taking active responsibility for trial design, implementation, data analysis, and participant safety. The applicant must have proven experience in research leadership and a strong record of research activities. Previous experience managing clinical trials, publishing findings, and securing research funding is essential.
The lead applicant is responsible for the project including scientific and financial reporting. This includes submitting progress reports, financial statements, and final outcome summaries to the foundation. Proper reporting ensures accountability and transparency in the use of grant funds.
Current Grant Holders
Researchers who currently hold an active grant under this programme as lead applicant may apply for a new grant during the final year of their existing grant. The new grant period must not overlap with the active grant meaning that the next project should commence after the current one concludes. Current grant holders may serve as co applicants on new applications submitted by other researchers. This flexibility encourages collaboration while preventing double funding for the same project.
How To Apply
Applicants must complete the online application form available on the Novo Nordisk Foundation official website. The application requires detailed information about the proposed trial including research objectives, methodology, patient population, timeline, and budget. Supporting documents such as the applicant CV, institutional approval letters, and previous research records must be submitted.
Application Deadline
August 18 2026
View details of Nordisk Foundation – Investigator Initiated Clinical Trials Grant Programme
