New framework for thematic research in 2025

Independent Research Fund Denmark introduces a new instrument for implementing politically prioritized themes, which will take effect in 2025. In total, the fund will allocate 867.6 million DKK for research within different themes in 2025 as part of the agreements on the distribution of the research reserve.

Wawes of blue, orange and purple accros from side to side
Adobe Stock made with AI

In 2025, Independent Research Fund Denmark (DFF) will allocate funding for research under the following politically prioritized themes:

  • 148.4 million DKK for the theme "Green research"
  • 46.5 million DKK for the theme "Arctic research – Climate change and sustainable arctic communities"
  • 228.8 million DKK for the theme "Strengthened clinical and independent research"
  • 148.4 million DKK for the theme "Research in psychiatry "
  • 14.8 million DKK for the theme “Research on elderly and ageing"
  • 34.6 million DKK for the theme "Research on vulnerability and poor well-being
  • 34.6 million DKK for the theme "Research on learning and well-being in primary schools"
  • 59.3 million DKK for the theme "Research on artificial intelligence"
  • 11.9 million DKK for the theme "Research on antisemitism"
  • 39.6 million DKK for the theme "Strengthened research in specialized social services"
  • 19.8 million DKK for the "Postdoctoral Exchange Programme in Quantum Research"
  • 80.9 million DKK for the "Inge Lehman Research Talent Programme".

Additionally, the fund will distribute approximately 1.185 billion DKK for independent research in 2025.

New instrument for politically prioritized themes

Independent Research Fund Denmark introduces a new funding instrument for its politically prioritized thematic programmes, effective from 2025. This thematic instrument is designed to better address the specific research needs typical of thematic areas, including practice-oriented research.

The overarching requirement for thematic research projects is to contribute new knowledge and solutions to significant societal challenges.

To enhance collaboration, the new thematic instrument includes a requirement for the involvement of a Co-Principal Investigator (Co-PI).

Key differences from DFF’s standard instruments include:

  • Increased funding limits: Typically up to 3 or 5 million DKK (excluding overhead). The exact amount will vary depending on the theme.
  • Extended project duration: Up to five years.
  • Theme-specific requirements: Detailed requirements and expectations will be outlined in the upcoming calls for proposals.

Special rules for two politically prioritized programmes:

  • "Postdoctoral Exchange Programme in Quantum Research" will follow the framework of DFF’s existing International Postdoc Programme, requiring applicants to spend 12 months abroad and 12 months at their Danish host institution.
  • "Inge Lehman Research Talent Programme": Specific details for this programme are still being finalized and will be included in the upcoming call.

Implementation process

Independent Research Fund Denmark will establish a series of ad hoc expert committees to evaluate applications and allocate funds for the politically prioritized themes listed above. The names of the ad hoc expert committee members will be published on DFF’s website in spring 2025.

Applications for the Inge Lehman Research Talent Programme will be reviewed and funded by DFF’s five academic councils.

Timeline

Thematic call for proposals: Expected to be published in early March 2025. Application deadlines: Expected to be scheduled for the last week of May and the first two weeks of June 2025.

Project start dates

DFF does not provide retroactive funding. The earliest start date for approved projects will be February 1, 2026, and the latest start date will be December 1, 2026.

Contact 

E-mail: DFF-opslag@ufm.dk
Telephone: +45 72 31 82 00 (weekdays 9.00 a.m. - 12 p.m.)