Deadline: 15-Jul-2026
The De Boer-van Staveren Fund is accepting applications from early-career scientific researchers conducting innovative research on autoimmune diseases in the Netherlands.
The programme supports independent research projects in biomedical and medical sciences while helping early-career researchers establish their own innovative research lines.
Programme Focus Areas
The fund supports:
- Autoimmune disease research
- Biomedical sciences
- Medical sciences
- Innovative scientific research
- Independent research development
- Early-career researcher advancement
The programme particularly encourages innovative and original research approaches related to autoimmune diseases.
Funding Support
Selected researchers may receive:
- Up to €50,000 each
Number of awards:
- Up to three researchers selected annually
The funding supports research-related activities and project development.
Who is Eligible?
Eligible applicants include:
- Early-career scientific researchers
- Researchers in medical or biomedical sciences
- Researchers in related scientific disciplines
Applicants must:
- Have completed a PhD within the last four years
- Conduct research at a university or research institute in the Kingdom of the Netherlands
- Develop an independent and innovative research line
The four-year eligibility period may be extended under the Academy’s extension arrangement.
Eligibility for PhD Candidates
Researchers in the final stage of their PhD may also apply if:
- They can begin the proposed research within three months of receiving the funding
Research Requirements
Applicants must:
- Independently lead the proposed research
- Demonstrate innovation and originality
- Focus on autoimmune disease-related research
- Conduct the project within the Netherlands research system
Required Application Documents
Applicants must submit:
- Completed application form
- CV of up to two A4 pages
- Research proposal of up to three A4 pages excluding references
- Project proposal template
- Academy Extension Arrangement Form if applicable
Programme Objectives
The initiative aims to:
- Support innovative autoimmune disease research
- Strengthen early-career scientific leadership
- Encourage independent research development
- Advance biomedical knowledge and discovery
- Foster high-quality research in the Netherlands
Tips for Applicants
Strong applications should:
- Present a clear and innovative research question
- Demonstrate scientific originality
- Show independence from previous research supervisors
- Include feasible research methods and objectives
- Highlight the potential impact on autoimmune disease understanding or treatment
Projects with strong scientific relevance and innovation may receive stronger consideration.
FAQ
How much funding is available?
Researchers may receive up to €50,000 each.
How many researchers are selected?
Up to three researchers are funded annually.
Who can apply?
Early-career researchers in medical, biomedical, or related scientific disciplines.
What is the PhD eligibility limit?
Applicants must normally have completed their PhD within the last four years.
Can final-year PhD candidates apply?
Yes, if they can start the research within three months after receiving the award.
Conclusion
The De Boer-van Staveren Fund supports innovative autoimmune disease research by early-career scientists in the Netherlands. Through funding for independent research projects, the programme helps emerging researchers establish their scientific careers while advancing biomedical knowledge and innovation in autoimmune disease research.
For more information, visit KNAW.