Deadline: 29-Sep-2026
The Nordic Cancer Union (NCU) Research Grant supports collaborative cancer research projects involving researchers from Nordic countries. The programme focuses on clinical epidemiology, cancer prevention, diagnostics, therapy, rehabilitation, and clinical trials using Nordic health data, registries, and biobank resources.
Projects must involve researchers from at least three Nordic countries and demonstrate strong cancer relevance and clear collaborative value. Funding is generally awarded for one year, with possible extension up to three years based on project progress.
Overview of the Grant
The Nordic Cancer Union Research Grant promotes collaborative oncology research across Nordic countries, including:
The programme supports:
- Cancer epidemiology
- Clinical research
- Prevention and health promotion
- Diagnostics and therapy
- Rehabilitation research
- Clinical trials
A major focus is on projects using:
- Population-based health registers
- Clinical databases
- Biobank resources
- Comparative Nordic health data
Who Is Eligible?
Applicants must:
- Be employed at a Nordic research institution
- Conduct cancer-related research
- Collaborate with researchers from at least three Nordic countries
Preference is given to projects involving multiple Nordic institutions and strong cross-border collaboration.
Priority Research Areas
The grant prioritizes:
- Register-based epidemiological studies
- Comparative clinical research
- Cancer prevention studies
- Descriptive epidemiology
- Oncology clinical trials
- Rehabilitation and healthcare outcome research
Projects should clearly explain how the Nordic setting provides unique research advantages.
Funding Details
Key funding information:
- Funding is usually awarded for one year
- Projects may receive support for up to three years
- Continued funding depends on progress evaluations
Eligible budget categories include:
- Salaries
- Equipment
- Operational costs
- Travel
- Research-related expenses
Applicants must submit budgets in EUR and disclose current or pending funding support.
Application Requirements
Applications must include:
- Project description
- Collaborator details
- Institutional approval
- Cancer relevance explanation
- Budget breakdown
- Description of Nordic collaboration and synergy
Collaborators and institutional authorities must electronically confirm participation through the application system.
Why This Grant Matters
The NCU Research Grant strengthens Nordic collaboration in cancer research by encouraging researchers to use the region’s:
- National health registers
- Clinical databases
- Biobanks
- Long-term healthcare data systems
The programme supports research that can improve:
- Cancer prevention
- Diagnostics
- Treatment strategies
- Healthcare policy
- Rehabilitation practices
It also helps strengthen oncology research capacity and clinical trial collaboration across the Nordic region.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the NCU Research Grant?
It is a collaborative cancer research grant supporting projects involving researchers from Nordic countries.
Who can apply?
Researchers employed at Nordic research institutions working on cancer-related studies with collaborators from at least three Nordic countries.
What research areas are supported?
The programme supports:
- Epidemiology
- Prevention
- Diagnostics
- Therapy
- Rehabilitation
- Clinical trials
How long is the funding period?
Funding is generally awarded for one year, with possible extension up to three years.
What expenses are eligible?
Eligible costs include:
- Salaries
- Equipment
- Operational expenses
- Travel
- Other project-related costs
What makes a strong proposal?
Strong proposals demonstrate:
- Clear cancer relevance
- Strong Nordic collaboration
- Use of Nordic data resources
- Practical healthcare impact
Conclusion
The Nordic Cancer Union Research Grant supports high-impact collaborative cancer research across Nordic countries. By promoting cross-border partnerships and the use of Nordic health data infrastructure, the programme helps advance cancer prevention, treatment, epidemiology, and clinical research in the region.
For more information, visit Nordic Cancer Union.
