The application process consists of two stages:
Step 1: Prepare your Individual Profile
Answer the questions in the "Upload your individual profile" section to present
- your scientific background and current research focus
- your methodological expertise
- your interests for potential collaboration
This step is not competitive - all eligible profiles (see the eligibility section) will be shared within the applicant pool to facilitate partner matching. You will have to actively identify potential collaborators and form a team that complements your skills and interests. To support this process, an optional online networking session will be offered between Step 1 and Step 2.
Deadline for profile submission: 07.06.2026
Online Networking Session: 01.07.2026 14-16 Uhr
Step 2: Form a Team and Submit a Joint Proposal
Once you have formed a team, submit your project proposal in the "Upload your collaborative project" section.
Your team must:
- include members from institutions in at least 2 different countries
- include at least one researcher affiliated with a partner institution (see "Partner Institutions" section)
- Ideally combine complementary expertise across disciplines or research stages
Each team member must provide:
- a letter of support from their supervisor
- for clinician scientists: confirmation by their clinic that they can attend the on-site event in October.
The project proposal should not exceed one page and does not need to be entirely new - existing collaborations are welcome, as long as your proposal clearly defines a novel step or added value.
Deadline for team application: 2 August 2026
Selection for the On-site Event
Based on the submitted team proposals, approximately 20 teams will be selected and invited to participate in the on-site bootcamp at the DKFZ in Heidelberg.
If selected:
- your travel and accommodation will be covered
- you will take part in an intensive, collaborative program to further develop your proposal (see Program section)
Notification: Mid-September 2026
From Idea to Fundable Proposal
During the three-day on-site event (14–16 October 2026), you will:
- refine your project idea through structured collaboration
- receive hands-on support in grant writing
- prepare and practice a short project pitch
After the event, you will have 3 weeks to submit a full proposal building on your work during the boot camp.
Deadline for full proposal submission: 1 November 2026
Evaluation and Final Selection
The final selection process consists of two steps:
- Written proposal review
Your full proposal will be evaluated and scored by an international evaluation committee. - Online interview (for shortlisted teams)
Selected teams will be invited to present their project in a short online session, including:- a 3-minute pitch
- a Q&A discussion
Final funding decisions are based on both the written proposal and the interview performance.
Final results announced: End of November 2026
