The DKMS John Hansen Research Grant supports promising early-career scientists advancing research in blood cancer with a focus on allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and cell therapy. Awards fund up to three years of project work conducted at an eligible host institution. Funds are transferred to the host institution and must be used exclusively for the awarded project. Program governance, reporting, and allowable costs are defined in the August 2025 Funding Guidelines.
Eligibility Criteria:
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Open to applicants worldwide; past awardees are not eligible to reapply.
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Doctoral degree (PhD, MD, or equivalent) received within 10 years of the grant call start date; documented extensions possible for justified career interruptions.
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A named supervisor (ideally senior faculty in the host institution with relevant expertise).
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Host institution must be an eligible governmental or non-profit organization per DKMS requirements; documentation may be required.
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Applicant and host must promptly notify DKMS of material changes (contact info, budget, design, timelines, supervisor, legal status, additional funding).
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Compliance with all regulatory/ethical approvals (e.g., IRB, animal care) is required before research begins.
Funding Details:
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Total funding: up to EUR 240,000 (EUR 80,000 per year) over a maximum of 3 years.
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Disbursement in Euros to the host institution; project-specific account/cost center recommended.
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Allowable costs include consumables/supplies, PI salary proportional to effort, one PhD student, and technicians (≥30% effort dedicated to the project).
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Travel: up to EUR 2,500 per year for the awardee to present project results at a scientific meeting (economy travel; reasonable lodging; no per-diems/meals; strict exclusions apply).
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Not allowed: overhead/indirects, equipment purchases > EUR 1,000 per item, salaries for supervisor/collaborators, secretarial/administrative support, office/phone costs, books/journals, building/space costs, luxury travel, VAT if deductible.
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Annual progress report due June 15 in years 1 and 2; final scientific and lay summary due within 3 months after year 3. Continued funding depends on satisfactory progress and financial reporting.
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Change of host institution may be permitted with DKMS approval; remaining funds are returned to DKMS and reissued to the new eligible host.
Deadline:
- Annual call; funding year runs July 1–June 30. Refer to the current DKMS call for exact application window and milestones.
Where to go for further information