Clinical Research Units
The DFG Clinical Research Units program funds collaborative, translational research teams in German clinical institutions to address complex patient- or disease-focused scientific questions.
Funder: German Research Foundation
Due Dates: Rolling (Draft and Establishment Proposals) | Six months before period end (Renewal proposals)
Funding Amounts: Generally up to 8 years (2 x 4-year periods); funding covers personnel, materials, training, and coordination modules.
Summary: Supports collaborative translational clinical research groups within German clinical institutions, fostering teamwork on defined research tasks.
Key Information: Draft and establishment proposals may be submitted at any time; applicants should consult DFG early to coordinate timing.
Description
This program enables the formation of Clinical Research Units—long-term, collaborative, disease- or patient-oriented (translational) research teams based in clinical institutions, primarily university hospitals in Germany. These units are designed to address research questions that cannot be answered by single investigators, providing a structure for close cooperation between clinicians and foundational scientists. The program also aims to strengthen research-oriented hospital structures, enhance training, and promote the scientific profiles of medical departments, while supporting early-career researchers, equity, and diversity.
