Apply for DFF-Research Project1 Grant Program (Denmark)

Deadline: 12-May-2026

The DFF-Research Project1 Grant Program supports focused, internationally competitive research projects in Denmark. Grants of up to DKK 2,550,000 fund well-defined projects with high scientific standards, structured sub-projects, and integrated PhD or postdoctoral roles to advance the quality and impact of Danish research.

What is the DFF-Research Project1 Grant?

The programme is designed to strengthen high-quality Danish research by funding projects that are clearly defined, internationally competitive, and well-structured. It emphasizes rigorous methodology, balanced team participation, and clear roles for all contributors.
Key Focus Areas Include:

• Well-defined research questions with high international standards
• Structured sub-projects, including embedded PhD and postdoctoral components
• Balanced participation and clearly justified roles for all team members
• Integration of PhD and postdoctoral positions to serve distinct and independent functions within the project

Who is Eligible?

Eligible applicants include:

• Researchers holding a PhD or equivalent obtained at least three years prior to the application deadline, with adjustments for career breaks
• Postdoctoral candidates integrated into the project must have obtained their PhD within the last four years, unless exemptions apply
• Projects may include embedded PhD and postdoctoral positions with clear recruitment plans if candidates are not yet named
  Eligibility requires demonstrated research expertise and the capacity to manage high-quality, internationally competitive projects.

How the Fund Works

Funding and Implementation:

• Maximum grant: DKK 2,550,000 excluding overhead
• Project duration: three years, extendable to four years if PhD students are included
  Project Expectations:

1. Develop a focused research project with clear objectives and methodology
2. Integrate structured sub-projects, including PhD and postdoctoral components
3. Ensure distinct and independent roles for all participants
4. Include a recruitment process if candidates for embedded positions are not yet named
5. Provide additional documentation for postdoctoral candidates who have not completed their PhD at application time

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Submitting projects with poorly defined research questions or unclear methodology
• Failing to demonstrate balanced participation or justified roles for all contributors
• Including PhD or postdoctoral positions without a clear integration plan
• Omitting recruitment plans for unnamed candidates
• Not providing required documentation for postdoctoral candidates without completed PhDs

How to Apply

1. Define a focused research project with clear objectives and high scientific standards
2. Structure sub-projects and define roles for PhD and postdoctoral participants
3. Prepare recruitment plans for any unnamed embedded positions
4. Compile supporting documentation for all participants, including postdoctoral candidates
5. Submit the application via the DFF portal before the deadline

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who can apply? Researchers with a PhD obtained at least three years prior to the application deadline.
2. What is the maximum funding amount? Up to DKK 2,550,000 excluding overhead.
3. How long is the project duration? Typically three years, extendable to four years if PhD students are included.
4. Can projects include postdoctoral or PhD positions? Yes, provided roles are well integrated and distinct.
5. Are unnamed candidates allowed? Yes, but a clear recruitment process must be included.
6. What if a postdoctoral candidate has not completed their PhD? Additional documentation must be provided.
7. What are the evaluation criteria? Clarity of research question, international competitiveness, structured sub-projects, and clearly defined participant roles.

Conclusion

The DFF-Research Project1 Grant enables Danish researchers to conduct high-quality, internationally competitive projects. By supporting structured research with integrated PhD and postdoctoral components, the programme strengthens Denmark’s scientific capacity and fosters innovation and impactful research outcomes.

For more information, visit Independent Research Fund Denmark.