Boosting top-flight research

In December 2019, the Swiss government initiated six more National Centres of Competence in Research (NCCRs) as part of the SNSF’s funding portfolio. They will sustainably strengthen research on antibiotic resistance, automation, language development, microorganisms, sustainable chemistry and quantum technology. “The thematic scope of the new NCCRs shows there is a huge potential for cutting-edge research and innovation at Swiss higher education institutions,” says Federal Councillor Guy Parmelin. Between 2020 and 2023, the SNSF will be investing 100 million francs in the six NCCRs for a maximum duration of twelve years.

More than 50 proposals were received for the 5th series of NCCRs. After scientifically evaluating the proposals, the SNSF submitted a shortlist of eleven potential NCCRs to the government for final selection.