Because science is at the heart of human progress
Now part of the AXA Foundation for Human Progress, the AXA Research Fund is AXA Group’s global scientific philanthropy initiative. Launched in 2008 to address the most important issues facing our planet, we support human progress by funding research in key areas related to risk and helping inform decision-making based on science. We are the cornerstone of the Science Pillar of the AXA Foundation for Human Progress launched on June 30th 2025.
Our strategy
Advancing Knowledge, Shaping Informed Action
The AXA Research Fund focuses on strengthening the transdisciplinary exploration of emerging risks, consolidating links between academic experts, industry and the public sector around major societal issues for informed decision-making, implementing innovative ways to advocate for science and disseminate scientific knowledge.
By funding research on the preservation of our planet, the improvement of health and the stability of our economies and societies, we are fully committed to act for human progress by protecting what matters.
Thomas Buberl CEO of AXA
Our purpose
Accelerating science to protect what matters
We seek to support scientists of the highest caliber and potential whose research projects are innovative and transformative. We also strive to catalyze a step-change in the career of its supported researchers through funding, public engagement, and increased collaboration.
Disseminating knowledge and informing decision-making
We work to accelerate scientific dissemination. In addition to financial support, we assist researchers in outreach efforts through the engagement of the research community with media partners and non-scientific audiences. Ultimately, our goal is the dissemination of scientific knowledge towards better informed decision-making.
Our work
The Fund’s work is directed towards major risks our society is facing in the areas of health, environment, and socio-economy & new tech. This scope is also aligned with the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals.
262 M€
committed to research
750+
Research projects funded
43%
women-led research projects
470
academic institutions supported
in 39
countries
Committed to contribute to global societal challenges related to health, environment, and socio-economy & new tech.
Supported institutions
From Argentina to Vietnam, we work with the best. Discover the institutions we collaborate with.
The AXA Research Fund provides an amazing opportunity to enable scientific research that responds to urgent and critical risks of our time. By supporting change-makers in a diversity of fields, the Fund helps expedite action towards a more equitable, sustainable and safer society for all.
Prof. Debra Roberts President of the AXA Research Fund Scientific Board