Agricultural genomics plays an important role in understanding genetic variation, improving breeding strategies, and supporting the development of more productive, sustainable, and climate-resilient agricultural systems. For academic researchers working in plant and animal genetics, access to appropriate genotyping resources can be an important part of moving a research project forward. The Agrigenomics Axiom™ Microarray Research Programme, launched by Thermo Fisher Scientific, is designed to support selected academic research projects by providing access to genotyping resources and microarray genotyping services.
What is the Agrigenomics Axiom™ Microarray Research Programme?
The programme supports academic researchers working in plant and animal genetics by providing selected research projects with access to Applied Biosystems™ Axiom™ Expert Catalog Genotyping Arrays and genotyping services through Thermo Fisher Scientific’s Microarray Research Services Laboratory (MRSL).
The programme is intended to support research that can contribute to areas such as: Plant and animal genetic diversity, Trait selection, Disease resistance, Sustainable breeding, and Agricultural innovation.
The broader objective is to enable researchers to explore microarray technology within research projects focused on plant and animal genetics and breeding.
Who can apply?
The programme is open to doctoral and postdoctoral researchers from academic institutions located in eligible countries across Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. Applicants must be working on genotyping-focused projects related to plant or animal breeding.
There are also important participation requirements
Applicants must apply on behalf of their employer or research institution, which will act as the Research Partner, and institutional authorization is required before submitting an application.
The programme is intended for research use only and does not apply to clinical diagnostic or commercial projects. Researchers should review the complete programme terms and eligibility requirements before applying.
What does the programme provide?
Two Research Programme awardees will be selected; One awardee in plant genomics and One awardee in animal genomics.
Selected awardees will receive microarray genotyping of submitted plant or animal DNA research samples through Thermo Fisher Scientific’s Microarray Research Services Laboratory, using Applied Biosystems™ Axiom™ Expert Catalog Genotyping Arrays.
Depending on their research requirements, each awardee may select: Up to 192 samples on a High-Density (HD) array or Up to 384 samples on a Low-Density (LD) array.
In addition to sample processing, Thermo Fisher Scientific will provide guidance on sample preparation and submission. The Bioinformatics team will provide high-quality raw data from the genotyping process. It is important to note that the programme does not include assistance with data interpretation. The equipment and consumables used as part of the programme also remain the property of Thermo Fisher Scientific and are to be used exclusively for the Research Programme.
How are research proposals evaluated?
Applications are reviewed by a scientific committee within Thermo Fisher Scientific’s Genetic Sciences Division. Proposals are assessed based on the scientific merits of the proposed research and the feasibility of the planned microarray application in plant or animal genetics. Proposed activities must be completed within a maximum timeframe of 12 months. The programme information also states that the application process is managed by a scientific coordinator within the Genetic Sciences Division, with the aim of maintaining a fair and transparent review process.
When is the application deadline?
Applications opened on 16 July 2026.
The deadline for submissions is: 30 October 2026, 12:00 AM CET
Researchers considering the programme should allow sufficient time to review the eligibility criteria, prepare the required documentation, obtain institutional authorization, and complete the electronic application.
How to apply
The application process is managed directly by Thermo Fisher Scientific.
Interested researchers should review the full programme information, eligibility requirements, Terms and Conditions, and application form through the official programme page: https://www.thermofisher.com/ng/en/home/o/b/axiomagriresearchprogramme.html
The application is electronic and must be submitted in English. Applicants should review the complete programme terms before submitting their proposal.
An opportunity for research in agricultural genomics
For researchers developing projects in plant or animal genetics, the programme provides an opportunity to access established microarray genotyping resources and services as part of a structured research programme. At a time when genomic approaches are increasingly contributing to breeding, genetic diversity studies, trait selection, and other areas of agricultural research, access to appropriate genotyping capabilities can help researchers advance well-defined research questions. Researchers in eligible countries whose work aligns with the programme criteria are encouraged to explore the full requirements and determine whether the opportunity is suitable for their research.
