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Horizon Europe Cluster 1 — Health (HLTH)

Horizon Health: Cell-Free Protein Synthesis Platforms

Funds €6–8M projects that make cell-free protein synthesis practical for discovering and producing peptide- and protein-based biologicals.

ScheduledEuropean CommissionEU

Cell-free protein synthesis can produce functional proteins without growing whole cells, offering a simpler and more flexible route for peptide- and protein-based biologicals. It can reduce manufacturing footprint and energy use, switch products quickly, support decentralised or personalised production and make proteins that are toxic to living cells.

Projects should tackle at least two of the to

Develop cell-free protein synthesis (CFPS) platforms for discovery and/or production of peptide- and protein-based biologicals. Proposals should address at least two CFPS elements: quality-by-design and lysate characterisation; synthetic-biology design and high-throughput screening of biomolecules; or optimisation of a CFPS platform toward GMP-compliant, clinical-grade material. Projects may use mammalian or other suitable lysates, synthetic biology and generative AI, and should demonstrate product quality, scalability, standardisation and quality control. Participation from start-ups and SMEs is encouraged, and clinical-study details belong in the dedicated annex when clinical studies are envisaged.

CycleiHow often this grant runs — e.g. annually, on a rolling basis, or a one-off call.One-off
Next deadlineiThe next date applications are due. Rolling means you can apply any time.13 Apr 2027
Decision timeiTypical time from the deadline to the funder's decision.22 weeks
Project durationiHow long the funded work is expected to run.
Award typeiThe form of funding — grant, equity, loan, tax credit, etc.Grant
Match fundingiThe share of project costs you must cover yourself. 0% = fully funded.0%
Funding pooliThe total budget available across all awards in this round.€24.5M

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Last verified: 25 Aug 2026Funder reference: HORIZON-HLTH-2027-01-IND-01Source: ec.europa.eu