Deadline: 07-Oct-2026
The Challenge Programme funds large-scale research on the health risks of hypertension during extreme heat events. It supports interdisciplinary consortia exploring biological mechanisms, risk prediction, and patient management strategies. Grants range from DKK 30–75 million for projects lasting up to six years.
Overview
The Novo Nordisk Foundation Challenge Programme supports collaborative research addressing how extreme heat impacts cardiovascular health, particularly Hypertension.
The initiative aims to generate scientific evidence and practical solutions to reduce heat-related health risks through interdisciplinary and translational research.
Funding Details
- Total funding pool: Up to DKK 150 million
- Grant size per project:
- DKK 30 million to DKK 75 million
- Project duration: Up to 6 years
- Funding type: Large-scale collaborative research grants
Programme Objectives
The programme aims to:
- Understand the link between heat exposure and cardiovascular disease
- Identify biological mechanisms driving heat-related mortality
- Improve clinical management during extreme heat events
- Develop predictive tools for at-risk populations
- Strengthen interdisciplinary research collaboration
Key Research Focus Areas
1. Heat and Cardiovascular Interaction
- Impact of heat exposure on blood pressure regulation
- Relationship between extreme temperatures and cardiovascular stress
2. Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms
- Biological pathways contributing to heat-related mortality
- Cellular responses to thermal stress
3. Organ and System Crosstalk
- Interaction between organs during thermoregulation
- Whole-body responses to heat stress
4. Medication and Heat Regulation
- Effects of antihypertensive drugs on body temperature control
- Potential risks during extreme heat conditions
5. Risk Profiling and Prediction
- Use of biomarkers and clinical data
- Integration of demographic risk factors
- Development of predictive models
6. Patient Management Strategies
- Clinical interventions during heatwaves
- Public health strategies for vulnerable populations
Key Concepts Explained
Hypertension
A chronic condition where blood pressure is consistently elevated, increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other complications.
Thermoregulation
The body’s ability to maintain a stable internal temperature despite external environmental changes.
Translational Research
Research that bridges laboratory findings and real-world clinical applications to improve patient care.
Biomarkers
Measurable biological indicators used to detect disease risk or progression.
Who is Eligible?
Consortium Requirements
- 2 to 4 research groups
- Includes:
- 1 main applicant
- 1 to 3 co-applicants
Main Applicant Criteria
- Independent tenured or tenure-track researcher
- Based at:
- European university
- Hospital
- Non-profit research organisation
- Must lead an established research group
- Minimum 75% employment commitment
- Guaranteed salary for full project duration
Danish Requirement
- At least one applicant must be affiliated with a Danish institution
- Must meet 75% employment criteria
Co-Applicants
- Can be based globally
- Must contribute relevant expertise
Industry Collaboration
- Industry partners allowed
- Not eligible for funding
How the Programme Works
Step-by-Step Process
- Form a Consortium
- Build an interdisciplinary research team
- Define Research Proposal
- Focus on heat-related hypertension risks
- Align with programme priorities
- Develop Research Plan
- Include methodology, milestones, and expected outcomes
- Submit Application
- Provide scientific, technical, and budget details
- Evaluation Process
- Based on innovation, impact, and feasibility
- Project Implementation
- Conduct research over up to 6 years
- Deliver scientific and clinical outputs
Why This Programme Matters
- Addresses growing risks from climate change and heatwaves
- Improves understanding of cardiovascular health under stress
- Supports development of life-saving interventions
- Enhances global preparedness for extreme heat events
- Promotes collaboration across scientific disciplines
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Lack of interdisciplinary integration
- Weak clinical relevance or application
- Insufficient focus on heat-related mechanisms
- Missing Danish partner requirement
- Unclear pathway to real-world impact
Tips for a Strong Application
- Combine clinical, biological, and data science expertise
- Focus on real-world healthcare impact
- Include robust risk prediction models
- Demonstrate innovation and scalability
- Align with climate and health priorities
FAQs
1. What is the funding range for this programme?
Projects can receive between DKK 30 million and DKK 75 million.
2. How long can projects run?
Projects can last up to 6 years.
3. Who can apply as the main applicant?
An independent researcher based at a European academic or research institution.
4. Is Danish participation required?
Yes, at least one applicant must be affiliated with a Danish institution.
5. Can industry partners be involved?
Yes, but they cannot receive funding.
6. What research areas are prioritised?
Heat-related cardiovascular risks, biomarkers, thermoregulation, and patient management.
7. What is the main goal of the programme?
To understand and mitigate the health impacts of extreme heat on hypertension.
Conclusion
The Challenge Programme on Hypertension and Extreme Heat represents a major investment in addressing one of the most urgent health risks linked to climate change. By supporting large-scale, interdisciplinary research, it aims to generate actionable insights that can improve patient outcomes, inform public health strategies, and strengthen global resilience to extreme heat.
For more information, visit Novo Nordisk Foundation.