Independent research in Denmark strengthened with 39 talented researchers

Read about the 39 new SAPERE AUDE: DFF Starting Grant recipients.

The 39 new Sapere Aude: DFF Starting Grant receivers come from all parts of the scientific world and are all young researchers who have achieved excellent research within their professional field. With the prestigious grant from Independent Research Fund Denmark, the young research talents get the opportunity to develop and strengthen both their research ideas and their research management.

Chair of the board, Jørgen Frøkiær says:

»This year's Sapere Aude: DFF Starting Grant receivers represent the future of research in Denmark. The young, talented researchers renew our knowledge foundation with their ground-breaking ideas and at the same time, they create a robust research readiness through the production of new knowledge. In a time when research is crucial to tackling global challenges such as pandemics and the green transition, the new research leaders are showing us the way forward.»

Independent Research Fund Denmark’s Sapere Aude: DFF Starting Grant was created to give younger researchers, who have achieved research at the top of their field, the opportunity to develop their research ideas as well as develop or strengthen their skills as research leaders. Additionally, an important purpose is to promote careers and mobility between research environments, both internationally and nationally, and to strengthen networks in the research environments. Thus, the grants also strengthen the internationalisation of Danish research, as one element of Sapere Aude is that researchers get the opportunity to spend part of their research career abroad to strengthen international cooperation.

Fierce competition for funds

Although this is excellent, independent research from all parts of the scientific world, the 39 new research leaders have one thing in common: they have all been part of a tough elimination race, where only the very best are left with a Sapere Aude: DFF Starting Grant today.

In order to reach the finish line, the 39 new research projects have gone through a thorough evaluation process: first two rounds of evaluation by the fund's professional research councils, then individual peer review by international experts and finally an interview conducted by a cross-council committee in the foundation, where the 39 new Sapere Aude: DFF Starting Grant research leaders have been selected.

It should be observed, that mentioned amounts may change after the upcoming budget review.