Deadline: 05-Nov-2026
The Horizon Europe Bioterrorism and Synthetic Biology programme supports projects that improve Europe’s capacity to address biological security risks linked to emerging biotechnologies.
The initiative focuses on strengthening:
- Bioterrorism prevention
- Preparedness and response systems
- Biological threat monitoring
- Public safety and security
- Responsible synthetic biology research
- Regulatory and governance frameworks
The programme also promotes lawful and ethical approaches to biological security management.
Key Focus Areas
The call supports projects that:
- Increase awareness of bioterrorism threats
- Improve understanding of synthetic biology risks
- Identify gaps in current regulations
- Enhance preparedness and response measures
- Strengthen monitoring systems
- Support safe biotechnology innovation
- Promote responsible scientific research
Projects should involve collaboration between:
- Policymakers
- Researchers
- Biotechnology companies
- Security practitioners
- Scientific communities
Why This Programme Matters
Advancements in synthetic biology and biotechnology are making biological tools and knowledge more accessible worldwide.
Key developments include:
- Gene editing technologies
- Genetic engineering
- DNA sequencing tools
- Commercial biotechnology services
- Public biological databases
- DIY biohacking communities
- Community laboratories
- Lower biotechnology equipment costs
While these innovations support scientific progress, they may also increase the risk of malicious misuse for biological threats or bioterrorism activities.
The programme aims to improve Europe’s preparedness against these emerging risks while protecting scientific innovation and public safety.
Funding Details
The funding is provided under the Horizon Research and Innovation Actions (RIA) framework.
Key funding information:
- Indicative budget: €3,000,000
- Programme type: Horizon Europe Research and Innovation Actions (RIA)
Who Is Eligible?
Eligible applicants include:
- Any legal entity worldwide
- International organisations
- Entities from non-associated third countries
- Research institutions
- Universities
- Biotechnology organisations
- Public agencies
- Security and policy institutions
Additional eligible participants may include:
- Affiliated entities linked to beneficiaries
- Associated partners without funding claims
- EU bodies established under EU law
- European Research Infrastructure Consortia (ERICs)
- Interest groupings and associations
Applicants must comply with Horizon Europe regulations and topic-specific eligibility requirements.
How to Apply
Applicants should:
- Develop a project addressing synthetic biology and bioterrorism risks
- Ensure alignment with Horizon Europe objectives
- Build multidisciplinary partnerships where relevant
- Register through the Horizon Europe Participant Register
- Obtain a Participant Identification Code (PIC)
- Submit a complete proposal before the official deadline
Strong proposals should demonstrate:
- Scientific and technical expertise
- Risk assessment capabilities
- Policy relevance
- Security and ethical considerations
- Innovation potential
- Practical preparedness outcomes
Tips for Applicants
To improve proposal quality:
- Focus on real biological security challenges
- Include ethical and legal safeguards
- Address regulatory and monitoring gaps
- Demonstrate interdisciplinary collaboration
- Prioritise responsible innovation
- Show practical impact on preparedness and response systems
Avoid proposals that lack clear risk mitigation or public security relevance.
FAQ
What is the focus of the programme?
The programme supports research and innovation projects focused on preventing and responding to bioterrorism threats linked to synthetic biology.
How much funding is available?
The indicative budget for the call is €3 million.
Who can apply?
Any eligible legal entity worldwide, including international organisations and entities from non-associated third countries, may apply.
What is synthetic biology?
Synthetic biology involves engineering biological systems and organisms using advanced biotechnology, genetic engineering, and gene-editing techniques.
What are the main risks addressed?
The programme focuses on risks related to the malicious misuse of biotechnology, biological research, and synthetic biology tools.
What is a Participant Identification Code (PIC)?
A PIC is a unique registration number required for organisations participating in Horizon Europe funding programmes.
Conclusion
The Horizon Europe Bioterrorism and Synthetic Biology Research Programme 2026 aims to strengthen Europe’s preparedness against emerging biological security threats. By supporting research, monitoring, regulation, and responsible innovation, the programme seeks to improve public safety while ensuring the ethical and secure advancement of synthetic biology technologies.
For more information, visit European Commission.