The John Templeton Foundation is a philanthropic organisation that supports research on subjects ranging from complexity, evolution and infinity to creativity, forgiveness, love and free will.

The Foundation's Genetics Grants seek to accelerate the rate of progress in genetics research by supporting novel approaches and contrarian research, particularly research that is undervalued by traditional funding sources. Projects can take the form of basic or translational research, or can be educational programmes to increase worldwide public awareness of how genetics-related research and its applications can advance human development at individual, familial and societal levels.

The current focus is on research and engagement projects that explore fundamental genetic and epigenetic mechanisms regulating inter-generational and trans-generational transmittance of biological information and health outcomes. The Foundation is particularly interested in how early life choices and environmental exposures causally impact development and the early onset of disease, and diagnostic platforms that may predict generational disease susceptibility.

Our application process has 2 stages: 

Grant consideration begins with an initial Online Funding Inquiry (OFI) and, if invited, a detailed Full Proposal (FP).

OFI deadline: 15/08/2025

OFI decision: 10/10/2025

FP deadline: 16/01/2026

Any charitable entity based in any country is eligible to apply for a grant. On rare occasions, individuals and for-profit companies doing charitable work that is consistent with the Foundation's tax-exempt status may be funded.

There are no maximum or minimum funding limits stated by the funder. Grants are usually provided for up to three years. In rare instances the Foundation may support a project for up to five years.

In case of interest, please click on "m'interessa" and we will contact you.