DFG Launches New COVID-19 Focus Funding Programme

In response to the coronavirus pandemic, Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG – German Research Foundation) has introduced a new COVID-19 Focus Funding programme which is designed to enable scientists to address especially urgent research questions requiring rapid answers. This may include data collection projects as well as meta-analyses and systematic reviews.

Between June 2020 and June 2021, the DFG issues periodic calls for proposals on the basis of topics which the DFG’s interdisciplinary Commission for Pandemic Research has identified a particular research need.

The thematic focus of the current, first call is on urgent, unresolved questions in relation to the immune response, host susceptibility and the infection mechanisms and pathomechanisms of SARS-CoV-2. Funding is provided for hypothesis-driven and evidence-based projects which meet the necessary methodological and practical prerequisites to quickly launch the research.

Eligible for funding are researchers in Germany, or those working at a German research institution abroad, who have completed their academic training (usually a doctorate). This includes researchers based at universities, universities of applied sciences, non-university research institutions and healthcare facilities. Applicants must have a track record of excellent research in their field as demonstrated by past merits. They must also have access to established research infrastructures and a corresponding repertoire of methods.

Funding is provided for a maximum period of 12 months and may be used to cover personnel costs for staff and direct project costs.

The deadline for the submission of brief project proposals is 7 September 2020.

More information about this research funding opportunity and the application process is available on the RESEARCHconnect funding information platform. RESEARCHconnect provides up-to-the minute content, insight and analysis on research funding news and policy. To find out more about how RESEARCHconnect can keep you in the know, and subscription fees, contact us today.