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Call for Proposals: Collaborative Research Programme

Deadline: 30-Apr-2026

The International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) invites applications for its Collaborative Research Programme to support innovative, regionally relevant scientific research. Grants up to €25,000 per year fund projects in biotechnology, healthcare, agriculture, and bioenergy for a maximum of 36 months. Mandatory international collaboration and special support for early-career researchers enhance research impact and global partnerships.

Overview of the Programme

The ICGEB Collaborative Research Programme funds original scientific projects addressing challenges relevant to the host country and the wider region. Eligible projects focus on:

  • Basic science

  • Human healthcare

  • Industrial biotechnology

  • Agricultural biotechnology

  • Bioenergy
    Projects must demonstrate clear feasibility and are supported for a maximum duration of 36 months. Funding contributes directly to project implementation.

Funding Details

The maximum annual contribution is €25,000. Eligible costs include:

  • Consumables and laboratory materials

  • Scientific literature

  • Basic standard laboratory equipment

  • Travel and training directly related to the research
    Funding does not cover salaries for Principal Investigators or institutional infrastructure and overhead costs.

Who is Eligible?

Applicants must hold positions at universities or research institutes in ICGEB Member States, excluding Italy. Mandatory international collaboration is required and must be clearly defined, justified, and formally confirmed by collaborators. Eligible collaborations may involve institutions from ICGEB Member States or other countries. Proposals that:

  • Span multiple countries

  • Establish new collaborations

  • Address region-specific issues

  • Involve ICGEB Principal Investigators
    receive particular consideration.

Early Career Return Grant

  • Age: 40 or below

  • Must have spent at least 2 consecutive years abroad

  • Must have returned to an ICGEB Member State (excluding Italy) within the last 2 years

  • Purpose: Establish independent laboratories

Why It Matters

The programme promotes scientific excellence, builds local research capacity, and addresses regional challenges in biotechnology and healthcare. It encourages global collaboration and supports early-career researchers in creating independent research groups. Funded projects generate practical outcomes, strengthen networks, and advance sustainable solutions in bioenergy, agriculture, and industrial biotechnology.

How to Apply / How it Works

  1. Prepare Your Proposal

    • Define clear scientific objectives and regional relevance

    • Detail international collaboration with formal confirmation from partners

  2. Submit Online

    • Use the ICGEB Service Gateway

    • Deadline: 30 April, 23:59 CET

  3. National Endorsement

    • Each Member State Liaison Officer can endorse up to 3 standard applications and 2 Early Career Return Grant applications

  4. Evaluation Process

    • Initial expert review to shortlist proposals

    • Independent peer review

    • Final decision by ICGEB Committee

  5. Notification and Project Start

    • Applicants notified by email

    • Successful projects typically commence at the beginning of the following year after contractual formalities

Common Mistakes and Tips

  • Avoid including PI salaries or institutional overheads in the budget

  • Ensure international collaboration is clearly documented and confirmed

  • Submit proposals before the April 30 deadline

  • Highlight the regional relevance and feasibility of the project

  • Early Career Return applicants must demonstrate at least 2 years abroad and recent return

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can Italian researchers apply? No, laboratories based in Italy are ineligible.
2. Is international collaboration optional? No, it is mandatory and must be justified.
3. What costs are covered by the grant? Consumables, literature, basic lab equipment, travel, and training. Salaries and overheads are excluded.
4. How long can projects last? Up to 36 months.
5. Who qualifies for the Early Career Return Grant? Researchers aged 40 or below who spent at least 2 consecutive years abroad and returned to an ICGEB Member State (excluding Italy) within the last 2 years.
6. How are applications evaluated? Through expert review, independent peer review, and final decision by the ICGEB Committee.
7. When do funded projects start? Typically at the beginning of the year following approval, after contractual formalities.

Conclusion

The ICGEB Collaborative Research Programme is a strategic opportunity for researchers in Member States to advance innovative scientific research with regional and international impact. With funding, mandatory collaboration, and support for early-career scientists, the programme strengthens research networks, promotes scientific excellence, and fosters sustainable solutions in biotechnology, healthcare, agriculture, and bioenergy.

For more information, visit ICGEB.