2026 Call for Research Proposals on HIV Cure

Deadline: 10-May-2026

Sidaction and Aidsfonds have launched a research funding call to accelerate strategies for an HIV cure or remission, with a total budget of €1.5 million. The initiative supports projects targeting viral reservoirs, enhancing immune control, developing new therapies, and addressing social science aspects of HIV cure. Proposals must involve international collaboration and aim to advance biomedical breakthroughs and societal acceptance.

Overview of the HIV Cure Research Call

Sidaction and Aidsfonds aim to accelerate research for an HIV cure or remission by funding innovative projects that address both scientific and social challenges. This initiative emphasizes:

• Biomedical innovation in HIV treatment and cure strategies

• International research collaboration

• Integration of social sciences to enhance community acceptance and access

• Promotion of equitable access to future HIV cure interventions

Key Focus Areas

Funded projects should focus on one or more of the following:

1. Targeting the HIV Viral Reservoir

   • Investigate mechanisms to identify, reduce, or eliminate latent HIV-infected cells.

2. Immune-Driven Control of HIV

   • Enhance immune system strategies to control or suppress HIV without continuous therapy.

3. Development of Novel Therapeutic Concepts

   • Explore innovative interventions, including gene therapy, immunotherapy, or combination strategies.

4. Social Sciences Research Related to HIV Cure

   • Study societal, ethical, behavioral, and cultural factors affecting HIV cure acceptance and accessibility.

Who is Eligible?

Eligible projects must meet the following criteria:

• Budget range: €300,000 – €600,000 per project

• International collaboration: Involvement of at least two countries, including France, the Netherlands, or an African country

• Projects must contribute to HIV cure strategies or support social adoption and equitable access

• Research teams may include academic institutions, research centers, NGOs, or private partners

• Projects outside the specified budget range or without international collaboration will not be considered

Why It Matters

This initiative is critical because:

• HIV continues to impact millions worldwide, despite effective antiretroviral therapy.

• Scientific breakthroughs could lead to functional cures or sustained remission.

• Social science research ensures community acceptance, ethical implementation, and global accessibility.

• Funding encourages cross-border collaboration, leveraging expertise from diverse regions.

How to Apply / How it Works

Step 1: Form an International Research Team

• Collaborate with institutions in at least two countries, ensuring inclusion of France, the Netherlands, or an African country.

Step 2: Identify a Research Focus

• Select a focus area such as viral reservoir targeting, immune enhancement, novel therapy development, or social sciences research.

Step 3: Prepare Your Proposal

• Budget: €300,000 – €600,000

• Include:

  • Scientific rationale and methodology

  • Expected outcomes and impact

  • Collaboration plan across countries

  • Timeline and deliverables

Step 4: Submit Your Application

• Ensure all required documentation is complete and aligns with the focus areas.

Step 5: Review and Selection

• Proposals are evaluated based on scientific innovation, feasibility, collaboration quality, and potential societal impact.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Exceeding or underestimating the budget limits (€300,000–€600,000)

• Failing to include international collaboration

• Submitting proposals outside the focus areas

• Neglecting social science considerations when relevant

• Missing required documentation or institutional endorsements

Tips for Success

• Clearly articulate scientific novelty and potential impact on HIV cure

• Include a diverse, international team with complementary expertise

• Address both biomedical and societal aspects of your research

• Provide a realistic timeline and measurable outcomes

• Ensure ethical and equitable considerations are integrated

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the total budget for this call?
   €1,500,000 across multiple projects.

2. What is the allowed budget per project?
   Between €300,000 and €600,000.

3. Which countries must be involved?
   At least two countries, including France, the Netherlands, or an African country.

4. What types of research are eligible?

   • Viral reservoir targeting

   • Immune system enhancement

   • Novel therapeutic approaches

   • Social sciences research related to HIV cure

5. Can private companies apply?
   Yes, as part of an eligible international research collaboration.

6. Will proposals outside the focus areas be considered?
   No, only proposals aligned with the stated focus areas are eligible.

7. Is societal impact considered in funding decisions?
   Yes, projects integrating social acceptance, ethical considerations, and access are prioritized.

Conclusion

The Sidaction and Aidsfonds HIV Cure Research Call represents a unique opportunity for researchers to accelerate global progress toward an HIV cure. By funding innovative biomedical strategies and fostering international collaborations, this initiative aims to transform HIV treatment, enhance social adoption, and improve global access for people living with HIV.

For more information, visit Sidaction.