“NCCRs are a key instrument for strengthening cutting-edge research in Switzerland”

What role does the SNSF play in selecting new NCCRs?

The SNSF conducts calls for proposals on behalf of the federal government and is responsible for evaluating the scientific and structural aspects of the NCCR proposals submitted. It relies on proven, standardised processes that ensure a fair and transparent evaluation, which gives rise to a shortlist of outstanding proposals that it recommends for funding. This shortlist is then submitted to SERI to be assessed in terms of research and higher education policy.

How many applications did the SNSF receive for the current sixth series and how did it evaluate them?

The SNSF first evaluated outline proposals, which present the goals and potential of the envisaged NCCR. It then examined the full NCCR proposals. The 75 outline proposals submitted were assessed by international experts from various fields according to the criteria set out in the call document. All applicants received feedback on their submissions. The international experts then re-examined the 38 resulting applications. Applicants were then interviewed in order to better gauge the quality, coherence and feasibility of the projects. Based on these evaluation results, the SNSF drew up a shortlist of recommended applications.

NCCRs have a duration of up to twelve years – why is such long-term funding important?

Developing outstanding research centres takes time. Long-term funding is what allows them to become firmly established. This results in the expansion of infrastructure, new professorships, high-quality training opportunities and strong national and international networks. This long-term approach is what enables the pursuit of ambitious scientific objectives.

How important is this funding instrument for Swiss research and innovation in your view?

NCCRs are a key instrument for strengthening Swiss cutting-edge research. They pool expertise across institutions and disciplines, increase international visibility and encourage innovation. They also help the Swiss research community to make its mark in strategically important areas across institutional boundaries and specifically support early-career researchers.

Which topics are particularly well suited to NCCRs? How does the population benefit from them?

This funding instrument is open to all research areas. It is particularly suitable for complex, socially relevant issues that require interdisciplinary approaches and long-term collaboration. One example is the newly launched NCCR CLIM+, which integrates natural and social sciences in research on climate extremes and human adaptation to climate change. This gives researchers the freedom to develop innovative approaches and overcome disciplinary and institutional boundaries. The population benefits from new scientific findings, innovations and specific knowledge transfer.

What steps are taken to ensure that the funded NCCRs generate long‑term impact in areas of strategic importance for Switzerland?

Each project is first evaluated by international experts to confirm the fundamental relevance of the given topic. The project is then assessed in terms of how well it fits national research and higher education policy priorities. Swiss higher education institutions then provide financial and structural support – for example, through new professorships, training programmes or technology platforms. This ensures a long-term impact. NCCRs offer a high degree of scientific flexibility, enabling them to respond quickly to new developments and redeploy funding as needed. In addition, they are regularly assessed by the SNSF and receive recommendations on how to further reinforce their international position.