Submit Applications for Research on Artificial Intelligence 2027 (Denmark)

The Research on Artificial Intelligence 2027 programme by the Independent Research Foundation of Denmark (DFF) funds collaborative AI research projects with grants of up to DKK 5 million (excluding overhead). The programme supports innovative AI research, requires collaboration between an applicant and Co-Principal Investigator (Co-PI), and mandates the inclusion of at least one PhD student or postdoctoral researcher to strengthen Denmark’s AI research capacity.

About the Research on Artificial Intelligence 2027 Programme

The Research on Artificial Intelligence 2027 initiative is designed to support excellent research projects that expand scientific knowledge and innovation in artificial intelligence.

The programme encourages collaborative research involving experienced researchers while simultaneously developing the next generation of AI researchers through structured capacity building.

Projects should demonstrate scientific excellence, strong collaboration, and meaningful contributions to the advancement of artificial intelligence.

Programme Objectives

The programme aims to:

• Advance high-quality artificial intelligence research.
• Support innovative AI technologies and methodologies.
• Strengthen Denmark’s AI research environment.
• Develop future AI researchers through PhD and postdoctoral involvement.
• Encourage collaboration between experienced researchers.
• Increase research capacity and international competitiveness in AI.

Research Focus Areas

Applications may focus on one or more areas related to artificial intelligence, including:

• Artificial intelligence systems.
• Machine learning algorithms.
• Data analysis and pattern recognition.
• Predictive modelling.
• Intelligent control systems.
• Decision-support systems.
• Guidance and automation technologies.
• Adaptive AI systems.
• Learning algorithms.
• AI solutions for specific tasks.
• Behaviour adaptation through environmental interaction.
• Emerging AI technologies.

Funding Information

Applicants may receive:

• Maximum funding of DKK 5,000,000 (excluding overhead costs).
• Funding for collaborative research projects.
• Support for research personnel and project implementation.
• Support for capacity building through PhD and postdoctoral participation.

Capacity Building Requirement

A distinctive feature of this funding programme is its emphasis on research talent development.

Every application must include:

• At least one PhD student, or
• At least one postdoctoral researcher.

This requirement helps strengthen Denmark’s long-term research capacity by training future artificial intelligence experts.

Project Structure Requirements

Each proposal must include:

• One Principal Applicant.
• One named Co-Principal Investigator (Co-PI).
• A binding research collaboration between both researchers.
• Clearly defined responsibilities for all project participants.
• Well-coordinated research activities.
• A coherent research plan.

The application should clearly explain how different project members contribute to achieving the research objectives.

Who Can Apply?

Eligible applicants include researchers who:

• Hold a PhD degree or equivalent qualifications before the application deadline.
• May demonstrate equivalent academic qualifications, such as a positive assistant professorship evaluation.
• Can establish a formal collaboration between the applicant and Co-PI.
• Meet all eligibility requirements established by DFF.

Both the applicant and Co-PI must satisfy the academic qualification requirements.

Application Evaluation Criteria

Applications will be assessed based on several factors, including:

• Scientific quality of the proposed research.
• Originality and innovation.
• Relevance to artificial intelligence.
• Previous research achievements of the applicant.
• Previous research achievements of the Co-PI.
• Career stage and research progression.
• Strength of the research collaboration.
• Distribution of roles and responsibilities.
• Overall feasibility of the project.

Why This Funding Matters

Artificial intelligence continues to reshape healthcare, manufacturing, transportation, finance, education, and countless other sectors.

This programme supports:

• Breakthrough AI research.
• Development of innovative AI technologies.
• Strong interdisciplinary collaboration.
• Training of future AI researchers.
• Expansion of Denmark’s AI research ecosystem.
• Long-term scientific and technological advancement.

How to Apply

Applicants should follow these steps:

1. Review all programme guidelines and eligibility requirements.
2. Develop a collaborative research proposal focused on artificial intelligence.
3. Appoint a qualified Principal Applicant and Co-PI.
4. Include at least one PhD student or postdoctoral researcher.
5. Clearly define the responsibilities of all project participants.
6. Prepare the complete application according to DFF requirements.
7. Submit the application before the official deadline.

Tips for Preparing a Strong Proposal

Applicants should:

• Present a clearly defined AI research question.
• Demonstrate scientific novelty and innovation.
• Explain the expected research impact.
• Build a strong collaboration between investigators.
• Clearly describe each participant’s responsibilities.
• Include realistic research milestones.
• Highlight previous research achievements relevant to the project.
• Ensure all eligibility requirements are fully met before submission.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid the following issues when preparing an application:

• Omitting the required PhD student or postdoctoral researcher.
• Providing unclear descriptions of team roles.
• Submitting proposals outside the AI research scope.
• Weak collaboration between the applicant and Co-PI.
• Incomplete documentation.
• Failing to demonstrate scientific originality.
• Missing eligibility requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the maximum funding available?

Projects may receive up to DKK 5,000,000, excluding overhead costs.

Who can apply?

Researchers holding a PhD degree or equivalent qualifications, together with a named Co-Principal Investigator, are eligible to apply.

Is collaboration mandatory?

Yes. Every project must include both a Principal Applicant and a named Co-PI engaged in a binding research collaboration.

Is a PhD student or postdoctoral researcher required?

Yes. Every application must include at least one PhD student or one postdoctoral researcher.

What types of AI research are eligible?

Projects may focus on AI algorithms, machine learning, prediction systems, adaptive AI, intelligent control systems, data analysis, and related artificial intelligence technologies.

How are applications evaluated?

Applications are assessed based on scientific quality, innovation, research achievements, collaboration strength, project design, and researcher qualifications.

What should applicants describe in the proposal?

Applicants should explain the research objectives, AI methodology, collaboration structure, participant roles, expected outcomes, and scientific contribution.

Conclusion

The Research on Artificial Intelligence 2027 programme offers significant funding for collaborative AI research that advances scientific knowledge while developing future research talent. With grants of up to DKK 5 million, mandatory support for PhD or postdoctoral researchers, and a strong emphasis on collaboration and innovation, the programme provides an excellent opportunity for researchers to contribute to the future of artificial intelligence in Denmark and beyond.