Opening of the first PDR-THEMA PFAS

The FNRS launches a PDR‑THEMA call dedicated to per‑ and polyfluoroalkyl substances, better known under the acronym “PFAS”, also referred to as “forever chemicals” due to their persistence in the environment.

The objective of the PFAS thematic call is to support research projects aiming at a better understanding of these substances, their effects on the environment and health, and the societal issues they raise. The PDR‑THEMA PFAS call is open to all fields, organized into the following three major domains: Exact and Natural Sciences (SEN), Life and Health Sciences (SVS) and Human and Social Sciences (SHS).

Depending on the domain, projects must contribute to a better understanding of: the physico‑chemical properties of PFAS, their distribution and environmental impact, alternative solutions, and prevention pathway ; the impact of PFAS on human and animal health : societal and legal issues surrounding the PFAS problematic.

The FNRS PDR-THEMA projects are funded by private donations and bequests.

This call is open until 15 September 2026.