Fondazione Telethon and Fondazione Cariplo are pleased to announce the opening of the Joint Call for Applications 2026.
This Call supports basic research projects aimed at investigating targets, such as genes/gene families, mRNAs, and proteins, whose function remains unknown in rare diseases of genetic (both monogenic and polygenic) and non-genetic origin. These targets are classified as Tdark, according to the framework developed by the Illuminating the Druggable Genome Knowledge Management Center (IDG-KMC).
For this Call, research projects can be submitted in one of two different formats:
- Pilot Applications: one-year research projects with a maximum funding of €50,000 aimed at generating data and/or tools to elucidate the role of Tdark targets in rare diseases. Preliminary data are not mandatory; however, where available, they should be included to strengthen the scientific rationale and demonstrate project feasibility. Only single-center proposals are eligible.
- Full Applications: research projects with a duration up to two years with a maximum funding of €250,000 supported by a solid background. Preliminary data are required. Both single- and bi-center proposals are eligible.
Eligible organizations must be Italian nonprofit research institutions, either public or private.
The Call is now open online, and applications can be submitted on the portal at this link.
An informational webinar will be held on July 23rd, 2026, at 4:00 PM (CEST). If interested, please, register at the following link.
The deadline for submitting applications is September 16th, 2026, at 1:00 PM CEST.
The full text of the Call, together with all relevant documents, is available and can be downloaded by clicking the links below.
Guidelines for the Applicants – Pilot
Guidelines for the Applicants – Full
Guidelines for External Reviewers
Guidelines for Scientific Committee Members
Biosketch Template
Application Form Sample – Pilot
Application Form Sample – Full
Should you need any support, please contact the scientific staff at [email protected]
