Danish National Research Foundation secures "yes" for its performance in promoting exceptional research

The Danish National Research Foundation (DNRF) has released its 2025 Annual Report, affirming its status as a "significant actor" in the national research landscape during a year defined by leadership transition, financial resilience and a definitive endorsement of its funding model.

The main takeaway from the report, released on 24/04/2026, is the conclusion of the first external evaluation of the DNRF since 2013. The evaluation sought to determine if the foundation’s position remains unique and continues to fulfil its statutory purpose of promoting exceptional research. The foundation reported that "both questions were answered with a resounding yes".

The evaluation report further noted that the DNRF "supports high-level research with significant potential for scientific breakthroughs" and provides an appropriate framework for building research capacity and developing talent.

While the report suggested potential adjustments, such as larger individual grants and closer collaboration with other foundations, it concluded there is no need for radical changes to the foundation's core…