This online webinar will introduce the forthcoming 2026 Joint Transnational Call, “Resolving unsolved cases in rare genetic and non‑genetic diseases through variant validation and new technological approaches”. Participants will hear how the call fits within ERDERA’s Funding workstream and how it will support multinational, interdisciplinary projects focused on delivering diagnostic clarity for people living with a rare disease.
We will outline scope, eligibility, timelines and expectations for patient partnership, and signpost where to find national/regional rules and submission guidance.
The session will also cover how ERDERA’s services and networks can strengthen proposals. A short presentation will introduce ERDERA and its hubs, including how the Clinical Research Network enhances diagnostic pathways and trial readiness by linking expert centres and harmonising procedures, the Data Services Hub supports secure, FAIR data sharing and analysis, and the Expertise Services Hub offers practical guidance on study design, regulatory pathways and methods. A dedicated segment on patient engagement will explain how meaningful PPIE is embedded throughout the call—from co‑defining priorities to governance and reporting—so that projects respond to patient‑need and drive real‑world impact.
Preliminary agenda:
- Presentation of ERDERA: who we are and how our hubs support research across Europe;
- JTC 2026 introduction: scope, eligibility, timelines and evaluation;
- Patient engagement in research: expectations, good practice and support for PPIE;
- Expertise support services: how to access methodological, regulatory and clinical guidance to strengthen your consortium and proposal.