Deadline Date: August 13, 2026
The Lundbeck Foundation Start-Up Programme is seeking applications to strengthen Danish neuroscience by supporting the recruitment of researchers from abroad or industry into permanent positions at Danish universities and hospitals.
The programme focuses on advancing neuroscience in its broadest sense, encompassing basic and clinical neuroscience as well as research with clear relevance to neuroscience, including medical, technical, natural, social sciences, and humanities, with an emphasis on improving understanding of the brain and enhancing prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of brain disorders.
The Lundbeck Foundation has a strategic ambition to position Denmark as a global leader in neuroscience by funding high-quality research and ensuring the development of top-tier scientists across biomedical, clinical, and health sciences. The programme also emphasizes the importance of diversity in science, encouraging applications that reflect a wide range of backgrounds, including gender and ethnicity.
The grant provides substantial funding to support newly recruited researchers, offering DKK 7 million for associate professors and DKK 11 million for full professors, each for a period of up to four years. These funds are designed to facilitate the establishment and growth of strong research environments within Danish institutions.
The application process is structured in two steps. Initially, only university or hospital leaders with the authority to hire for permanent positions can apply. Once a preferred candidate is selected, the candidate must submit a detailed research proposal for final approval. A key requirement is that the position must align with the institution’s strategic goals for strengthening neuroscience research and education.
Eligible proposals must involve permanent positions at the associate or professor level, with salaries covered by the host institution. Candidates must have been engaged in active research positions outside Denmark or in industry for at least two years prior to recruitment and must commit to starting full-time within one year of programme approval. Additionally, the research proposal should demonstrate clear potential for advancing neuroscience knowledge or contributing to therapies for nervous system disorders. Preapproval is mandatory before proceeding to the second stage of application.
For more information, visit The Lundbeck Foundation.
