Making research infrastructures fit for the future

Research infrastructures are a key prerequisite for excellence in research and innovation. They provide access to state-of-the-art facilities, data, technologies and services, which helps to strengthen Switzerland’s international competitiveness as a centre for research. National coordination and strategic investment priorities are taking on greater importance as research infrastructures become more complex and costs continue to rise.

An overview of the Swiss research infrastructure ecosystem

The position paper examines the various stakeholder roles and the planning, evaluation and funding processes that are already in place for research infrastructures. It highlights where the existing system works well and which areas require additional coordination.

Clear rules and improved coordination

The position paper calls for a shared understanding of which research infrastructures are a priority for Switzerland and are of national importance. Uniform criteria, transparent evaluation procedures and closer coordination between universities, research institutes, funding organisations and the federal government are intended to simplify strategic planning for stakeholders. This in turn should create synergies and ensure that resources are used more efficiently.

Sustainable funding and measuring impact

Research infrastructures require sustainable, long-term funding models in which host institutions retain primary responsibility for establishing, operating and maintaining the research infrastructures, whilst the federal government provides supplementary support. Clear objectives and indicators can demonstrate the scientific and societal added value that research infrastructures generate and serve as a basis for future funding decisions.

Ongoing work on the ERI Dispatch for 2029–2032

Several assessments of research infrastructure funding are currently underway, with a view to the 2029–2032 Education, Research and Innovation (ERI) Dispatch. The top priority is the further development of the roadmap process, which encompasses the planning of new national and international research infrastructures. In addition, swissuniversities is developing the Swiss Portal for Academic Data and Research Infrastructures (SPADRI). Among the funding organisations, the SNSF has drawn up a funding and evaluation framework for research infrastructures on behalf of SERI. At the same time, SERI has commissioned an external review of funding instruments and processes for research facilities of national importance (Art. 15 RIPA). The findings of these assessments will form the basis for continuing development on a cohesive research infrastructure system that is fit for the future.