Research Announcement: Congenital Heart Defects (AHF/EMAH) 2026
Overview of Congenital Heart Defects
Congenital heart defects (CHDs) are the most common types of congenital organ malformations affecting approximately 8,700 newborns annually in Germany alone. Advances in pediatric cardiology, cardiac surgery, and the care of adult patients with congenital heart disease (EMAH) have significantly improved outcomes, with over 95% of affected children now surviving into adulthood. As the number of adult patients with congenital heart defects continues to rise, currently exceeding 350,000, it is imperative to address unresolved issues surrounding long-term prognosis, innovative therapies, and structured aftercare.
Funding Opportunities for Research Projects
To further investigate the complexities of congenital heart defects, the Deutsche Herzstiftung is offering €500,000 in funding for research initiatives in 2026. This funding will support innovative projects across various specializations within cardiac care, including pediatric cardiology, adult congenital heart disease, child heart surgery, and intervention strategies. Researchers from both pediatric and adult cardiology centers are encouraged to submit proposals. This funding round is particularly focused on diagnostics, therapeutic advancements, and preventative measures for congenital heart defects.
Application Process
Eligible researchers in Germany can submit applications that should encompass several key components:
- Title: A succinct project title.
- Partner Institutions: Names of any collaborating institutions.
- Objectives: A brief outline of the project’s goals (1-3 sentences).
- Project Description: A comprehensive description spanning one page.
- Working Plan: A detailed plan also limited to one page.
- Existing Resources: A half-page overview of current resources available for the project.
- Required Resources: A brief summary of funds requested (2-4 sentences), noting that equipment and accessories are not eligible for funding.
- Expertise: A CV, along with up to five publications or patents.
- Timeline: A brief outline of the project timeline (2 sentences).
All applications must be compiled into a single PDF file and submitted via email to [email protected] no later than September 4, 2026.
Reporting and Oversight
Researchers who receive funding will need to produce a layman’s summary for publication by the Deutsche Herzstiftung. Furthermore, within one year of project completion, an unprompted detailed report (in PDF format) must be submitted, along with a certified expenditure report from the funding body. Alternatively, timely publications arising from the project may be submitted in lieu of a final report.
Selection and Decision
The grant allocation will be decided by the board of the Deutsche Herzstiftung, advised by an expert review panel. All applications will undergo evaluation according to a point-based system. This review board will consist of at least six heart specialists representing the Deutsche Herzstiftung, the Deutsche Stiftung für Herzforschung, and the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Pädiatrische Kardiologie und Angeborene Herzfehler. Approved applicants will be notified of the outcome and funding amounts, with announcements beginning in mid-November 2026.
Contact Information
For more details about the application and funding process, interested parties can reach out to Dr. Sinann Al Najem at +49 69 955128-100 or through email at [email protected]. Additional information is available on the official website of the Deutsche Herzstiftung at herzstiftung.de.
By actively pursuing research initiatives in this critical area, we can continue to improve the lives of patients affected by congenital heart defects and pave the way for future advancements in healthcare.
