Understanding of sex and/or gender-specific mechanisms of cardiovascular diseases: determinants, risk factors and pathways

European research funding is aimed at companies, educational institutions, non-profit organizations, and public bodies in all EU Member States as well as countries associated with Horizon Europe. Projects that investigate sex- and gender-specific determinants, risk factors, and mechanisms of cardiovascular diseases are supported. The objective is to gain comprehensive insights into biological-hormonal, genetic, and psychosocial influences on disease onset and progression. Interdisciplinary approaches from molecular biology, epidemiology, behavioral science, and clinical research are to be integrated through cross-consortium cooperation. Eligible costs include personnel expenses, subcontractor costs, and material costs; applications can be submitted until 16 April 2026. The maximum funding amount per project ranges between €6 and 7 million with a 100% funding rate.

Selection is conducted through a single-stage procedure based on the criteria of excellence, expected impact, and quality and efficiency of implementation. Evaluation focuses on innovation content, potential health impact, and feasibility of the measures. Research and innovation actions (RIA) can be applied for, ranging from basic research to piloting new diagnostic and therapeutic options, as well as accompanying coordination and support actions (CSA). Prerequisites for application include registration in the EU Participant Register (PIC), compliance with ethical requirements, and valid Horizon Europe participation eligibility. Funding is granted as a non-repayable grant, with project start possible no earlier than 10 February 2026. A detailed financial plan and an ethics self-assessment must be submitted together with the application.