Preparatory Support for the Evaluation of Toxicity Studies Supporting the GM Food and Feed Safety Assessment (EFSA)
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), on behalf of the European Commission, intends to establish a framework contract to provide scientific and technical support for the evaluation of in vivo toxicity studies submitted within EU authorisation procedures for genetically modified (GM) food and feed. The project will contribute directly to the robustness, consistency, and regulatory compliance of scientific assessments underpinning EU decision‑making on GM safety. The work will support EFSA scientific panels and EU risk managers by strengthening the quality control of toxicity data used in regulatory evaluations.
Why is this relevant for Lebanese universities?
This opportunity allows Lebanese universities with strong expertise in toxicology and biostatistics to access high‑level EU regulatory assessment work through subcontracting or consortium participation with an EU‑based partner. It enables direct exposure to EFSA methodologies, OECD guidelines, and EU GMO regulatory frameworks.
Participation can strengthen institutional credibility in applied regulatory science and support long‑term positioning within EU research and advisory networks. It is particularly relevant for teams seeking practical involvement in real‑world safety assessments.
Scope of the call
- Evaluation of in vivo oral toxicity studies (primarily 28‑day and 90‑day rodent studies) submitted as part of GM food and feed authorisation dossiers.
- Review of experimental design, compliance with EU regulatory and EFSA guidance requirements, and applied statistical methodologies.
- Identification of deviations, data gaps, uncertainties, and inconsistencies in submitted studies.
- Drafting of structured evaluation reports and formulation of clarification questions to applicants.
- Verification that applicants’ responses adequately address previously identified issues.
Estimated workload of approximately 20 evaluation reports per year. [subsdy.com]
Eligibility
- Eligible applicants are organisations, including universities, research institutes, and specialised consultancies.
- Demonstrated expertise in regulatory toxicology, evaluation of in vivo studies, and applied biostatistics.
- Mandatory familiarity with OECD test guidelines, EU GMO legislation, Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) principles, and EFSA guidance.
- Participation is limited to organisations based in EU Member States; however, Lebanese universities may participate as subcontractors or consortium partners under an EU‑based coordinating institution.
Capacity to deliver all work in English is required.
Location : Italy.
Budget : EUR 120,000.
Duration : 24 months.
Deadline for submission of expressions of interest: 16 May 2026 (23:59 CET).
Indicative launch date of the negotiated procedure: 29 May 2026.
Link : https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/portal/screen/opportunities/tenders-search
(search for procedure reference EFSA/2026/MVP/0015‑EXA).Next steps:
- Assess internal expertise and capacity in regulatory toxicology and biostatistics relevant to EFSA requirements.
- Identify and contact potential EU‑based coordinating partners or consortia.
- Prepare an expression of interest demonstrating organisational capacity and relevant scientific expertise.
- Monitor the EU Funding & Tenders Portal for publication of full technical and financial specifications at launch
