Postdoctoral Funding

Compendium

Most popular
funding
instruments for
postdoctoral
fellows in
Switzerland December
2024
Version 1.5

Research
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 How to use this Compendium
Schemes listed offer funding opportunities with EPFL as host institute.
For outgoing researchers, consider the SNSF [Link] or the MSCA European Fellowship, or contact your host institute.
Funding programmes are presented in alphabetical order. This compendium is non exhaustive.

■ Established researchers
Applicants holding a doctorate who are in a position to carry out research projects
under their own responsibility and lead project staff both scientifically and as personnel.
Young researchers who hold a doctorate or equivalent qualification and whose goal is

Applicant
■ Postdocs
to become scientifically independent so that they can compete at an international level
and maximise their career prospects. They must have the support of their head of unit
to submit a proposal.
Young researchers who are enrolled in or eligible for an EPFL doctoral programme who
■ PhD students intend to obtain a PhD. They must have the support of their head of unit to submit a
proposal.
Can be requested by applicants who need additional funds to carry out their research
Project funding project.
Focuses on the persons conducting research: fellowship or salary for themselves and -
Funding opportunities Career funding depending on the funding scheme - for further funding to carry out their project.
Grants for scientific meetings as well as for projects that foster dialogue between
Outreach funding science and society.

Highlights the time window for eligibility. In this example, applicants must have held
Timeline
the PhD title for 3 years at least and no more than 10 years.
The technology-readiness scale indicates
whether the funder supports basic, applied,
Technology-readiness level
BASIC APPLIED POC MARKET proof of concept (PoC) and/or market-oriented
research.
The lead researcher for the submitted application and for the granted project, who also acts as the main contact person
Principal Investigator (PI)
for the funder.
Direct costs involved in carrying out a research project. In this document, the phrase is used when the funder does not
Project-related costs
impose eligibility rules on project-related costs.

Overheads Indirect costs associated with carrying out a research project. EPFL regulations on overhead costs can be found in Lex 5.1.1.

Note that this categorisation is only provided to facilitate reading of the Compendium.
Please read carefully the description of the funding instruments and visit the funder’s website for further information.
Research
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 Funding instruments in detail

AXA Research Fund

■ Postdocs
Career funding
Max. EUR 125’000 for up to 24months.

BASIC APPLIED POC MARKET

WHAT WHO CAN APPLY ELIGIBLE COSTS FURTHER REQUIREMENTS

One thematic call per year for postdoc Postdoc researchers ofany nationality: Personnel (incl. PI’ssalary), Candidates must be supported
fellowships, addressing environmental, ■ With max. PhD+5years (flexibility of 6 consumables, equipment, by the head of the host
health, new tech or socio-economics months). dissemination, fieldwork, laboratory, selected by EPFL
global risks. Research projects can other. Does not cover Research Commission and
■ Outstanding research achievements.
adopt a global perspective or focus on overheads. nominated by EPFL Research
■ Employed at a higher education institutionfor
regional challenges. AXA fellowships Office on the Foundation’s online
the duration of thefellowship.
must be transformative for the platform.
researcher and the advancement of the Fellows must committo:
field. ■ Full-time work for the duration of the fellowship
Diversity is an important criterion in (with an exceptional acceptance of up to 20%
the selection process, with regard to time dedicated to teaching).
research theme, methodology, gender ■ Communicate the project and research to a
and geography. broad audience.
■ Use an open-data framework whenapplicable.

Website: [Link]

Research
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 Funding instruments in detail

Brain & Behavior Research Foundation

Young Investigator Grants

■ Established researchers
■ Postdocs
Career funding
USD 70’000 for 24months.

BASIC APPLIED POC MARKET

WHAT WHO CAN APPLY ELIGIBLE COSTS FURTHER REQUIREMENTS

Enabling young scientists conducting Advanced postdoc fellows, Personnel costs Applicants must have the support of
neurobiological research to either instructors and assistant professors and project-related costs. their institutions.
extend research fellowshiptraining (or equivalent). Does notcover overheads. Contact research@[Link] at least
or begin careers as independent 7 days prior to the call deadline.
research faculty. Calls usually open
every other (odd) year with deadlines
in the spring.

Website: [Link]
EPFL Services: contact the Research Office

Research
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 Funding instruments in detail

BRIDGE Proof of concept

■ Postdocs
■ PhD students
Career funding
Max. CHF 130’000 per year (CHF 195’000 for 18 months)

BASIC APPLIED POC MARKET

WHAT WHO CAN APPLY ELIGIBLE COSTS FURTHER REQUIREMENTS

Support to young researchers for  BSc or MSc obtained no more than 4 years  Salary of the applicant  Candidates must obtain
developing an application or service ago, or  Costs directly related to EPFL Institutional support
based on their research results  PhD completion within the next 6 months or the realisation of the letter
less, or project (e.g. for  In case of start-up projects,
 Post Doc having obtained the doctorate no infrastructure prototypes, applicant must apply for the
more than 4 years ago consumables, travel and status of Sciencepreneur
conferences)

Website [Link]
EPFL Services: Toolkit

Research
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 Funding instruments in detail

BrightFocus Foundation
Alzheimer’s Disease Reserch Program
Macular Degeneration Research Program
National Glaucoma Research Program

■ Established researchers
■ Postdocs
Max. $600,000 / 3yrs

BASIC APPLIED POC MARKET

WHAT WHO CAN APPLY ELIGIBLE COSTS FURTHER REQUIREMENTS

BrightFocus accepts investigator initiated Standard Awards BrightFocus Funds: BrightFocus does not fund:
proposals related to developing treatments, • Established researchers • Salary and benefits for the PI and • Institutional overhead
preventions, and cures for glaucoma, macular • Postdocs in final stages of mentored Co-PI(s) • Capital equipment
degeneration, and Alzheimer's disease. training • The Principal Investigator salary • Construction of buildings
Each program gives awards according to researcher Postdoctoral Fellowship request must be the lesser of 35% of
category*: • Postdocs (MD, PhD, DVM, DO, OD) the total grant request, or 35% of the
• Standard Awards no more than 4 yrs prior to individual’s salary
$300,000 / 3 yrs application • Co-PI salaries are capped at the
• Postdoctoral Fellowship Awards • Early Investigators who have rcv’d lesser of 25% of the total grant
$200,000 / 2 yrs degree within past 10 years; must request, or 25% of the individual’s
serve as PI salary. (Salary caps are imposed on
$150,000 / 2 yrs
New Investigator the Principal Investigators and Co-
• New Investigator Grant
• Early investigators who have Principal Investigators only)
$450,000 / 3 yrs
received their MD, PhD or
• Innovative Research Grant
equivalent degree within the past 10
$600,000 / 3 yrs years.
*Not all categories are available every year in every • Must have an independent research
program position and independent laboratory
space
Innovative Research Grants
• Established researchers

Research Website: [Link]

Office EPFL Services: contact the Research Office Postdoctoral Funding Compendium | EPFL internal use only
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 Funding instruments in detail

Canadian Institutes of Health Research

Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships

■ Postdocs
Career funding
CAD 70’000 per year, max 2 years

BASIC APPLIED POC MARKET

WHAT WHO CAN APPLY ELIGIBLE COSTS FURTHER REQUIREMENTS

2 years postdoctoral funding in the Applicants who are Canadian citizens  Applicant’s salary Institutional letter of
following areas of research: or permanent residents of Canada and  Project funds (personnel, endorsement is required, in
Health research, who obtained their PhD, PhD- infrastructure/core facilities, addition to a Supervisor’s
Natural sciences and/or engineering, equivalent or health professional consumables, equipment,
statement. Contract the
Social sciences and/or humanities degree from a Canadian university may travel, conferences, Open
hold their Banting Postdoctoral research data, collaboration Research Office for assistance
Fellowship at either a Canadian costs, subcontracting costs) with the endorsement letter.
institution or an institution outside of  In case of early nomination as
Canada. professor, remaining grant can
be used up by the grant holder

Website: [Link]
EPFL Services: contact the Research Office

Research
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 Funding instruments in detail

Cogito Foundation
Congresses & Public Understanding Of Science

■ Established researchers
■ Postdocs
■ PhD students
Outreach funding
No upper or lower limit on funding or duration.

BASIC APPLIED POC MARKET

WHAT WHO CAN APPLY ELIGIBLE COSTS

Support to the dissemination of and public Anybody can apply for this grant. Preference is Invite prominent speakers to congresses, meetings,
outreach activities on research that helps bridge given to applicants based at a higher education seminars. Events and activities. Does not cover
the gap between science and technology, on one institution. translations and printing costs nor overheads.
hand, and humanities and the social sciences,
on the other. The Foundation does not grant
supplementary funding to SNSF, ERC or similar
grants.

Website: [Link]

Research
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 Funding instruments in detail

CRI Irvington Postdoctoral Fellowship

■ Postdocs
Career funding
$243,000 over 3 years

BASIC APPLIED POC MARKET

WHAT WHO CAN APPLY ELIGIBLE COSTS FURTHER REQUIREMENTS

Support to fund and train young  Applicants working in areas  Salary Institutional signature and IRB
immunologists and cancer directly related to cancer  Insurance signature required. Contact the
immunologists at top universities and immunology; it must fall into the  Research-related expenses such Research Office.
research centers around the world. broad field of immunology and as travel to conferences and
show relevance to solving the meetings
Fellows work and continue their cancer problem.
training under the guidance of a world-  Applicants must have a doctoral
renowned immunologist. degree by the date of award
activation, but be no more than 5
CRI seeks hypothesis-driven, years post-PhD.
mechanistic studies in both  Only in exceptional
immunology and tumor immunology. circumstances will applicants
The applicant and sponsor should who have already spent 3 or
make every effort to demonstrate the more years in a sponsor’s
potential of the proposed studies to laboratory by the start date of
directly impact our understanding of fellowship be considered for a
the immune system’s role in cancer. fellowship award.

Website: [Link]
Research EPFL Services: contact the Research Office
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 Funding instruments in detail

Cyber-Defence (CYD) Fellowships

Fellowships

Master students, PhD students, Postdocs

Project and career funding
Varies based on the type and duration of the fellowship
BASIC APPLIED POC MARKET

WHAT WHO CAN APPLY ELIGIBLE COSTS FURTHER REQUIREMENTS

Two calls per year for CYD Doctoral and Candidates of any nationality: Master Thesis fellows: living Master Thesis: funding for 6 months.
Distinguished Postdoctoral Fellowships ■ Master Thesis and Doctoral candidates: need to be allowance and research costs.
are open to researchers who are willing to enrolled in a Master/Doctoral program at a higher Doctoral: funding for 4 years.
engage with issues cutting across the education institution in Switzerland. Doctoral and Distinguished Funding for less than 4 years can
frontiers of cyber-security and data Postdoctoral fellows: salary, be requested only if the candidate
■ Distinguished Postdoctoral candidates: need to
science. social security contributions, has already completed the first two
conduct their CYD Fellowship project in a different
research and conference years of their doctoral program and
laboratory from their current laboratory.
Rolling calls are open for CYD Master costs, overheads. the requested funding period
Thesis and CYD Proof of Concept ■ Proof of Concept candidates: need to be pursuing coincides with the completion of the
Fellowship applications. or holding bachelor, master or doctoral degrees Proof of Concept fellows: PhD thesis.
recognized in Switzerland. personnel costs, social
The CYD Fellows are hosted by a higher ■ Please also refer to the application guidelines for security contributions, Distinguished Postdoctoral:
education institution in Switzerland and each programme for more detailed information. development costs. funding for up to two years.
conduct their research at the CYD Campus
located on the premises of EPFL and ETHZ Please also refer to the Proof of Concept Fellowships:
as well as in its office in Thun. CYD Proof of application guidelines for
funding for 12 months.
Concept Fellows (only) can also be hosted each programme.
by their own start-up based in Switzerland or
at the EPFL Innovation Park.

Website: [Link]
Research
EPFL Services: the ReO is in charge of the management of this programme (including pre- and post-award).
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 Funding instruments in detail

DFG/ Walter Benjamin program

■ Postdocs
Career funding
€3 654 monthly fellowship allowance, plus child allowance, for up to 2 years

BASIC APPLIED POC MARKET

WHAT WHO CAN APPLY ELIGIBLE COSTS FURTHER

REQUIREMENTS
With the acquisition of funding for an • Postdoctoral researchers at an early career • The type and extent of funding Host support letter
independent research project, the phase depend on what modules are should be arranged
foundation stone is laid for a further, selected. directly with hosting
• Funding abroad can only be granted if • Regardless of which funding type
increasingly independent scientific professor.
scientists are integrated into the German is selected, a general allowance
career and the desired personal science system (e.g., have worked in for direct project costs (including
responsibility of particularly qualified Germany directly before the application). travel and publication costs) and,
postdocs is strengthened. The where applicable, additional
program thus serves to promote early • If academics are already abroad, funding can funding associated with high
scientific careers. The aim is to be granted abroad if they have completed the production costs (book format)
majority of their school and university will be granted.
support the mobility and thematic
education in Germany. • The fellowship amount is made up
development that is relevant in this of the basic allowance and, where
career phase, which is why the • In addition, it is assumed that, at the time of applicable, additional benefits
program usually includes a change of submitting the application, researchers have such as a foreign allowance, cost
institution. not been working scientifically for more than a of living allowance and benefits
year at the host institution selected. for parents.

Website:[Link]
Research
EPFL Services: contact the Research Office
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 Funding instruments in detail

EMBO Postdoctoral Fellowship

■ Postdocs
Career funding
Amount depends on the country of the future host institution

BASIC APPLIED POC MARKET

WHAT WHO CAN APPLY ELIGIBLE COSTS FURTHER REQUIREMENTS

The EMBO Postdoctoral Fellowships are  PhD must be obtained at the start of fellowship,  Living costs (host country • Research proposals must be
awarded for a period of up to two years not necessarily at the submission date dependent) within EMBO’s scientific scope:
and support young researchers undertaking  PhD holders: degree must have been obtained  Child allowance and child
[Link]
life science and molecular biology-based during the 2 years prior to submission date care allowance (max EUR
projects in laboratories throughout Europe 2’500/year) embo/subject-areas
and the world.  At least 1 first author publication accepted, in  Travel and relocation • Institutional approval is required
press or published allowance for the fellow at the submission stage; for
 2 cutoff dates per year:  International mobility is mandatory (see and his/her family (up to assistance, please contact the
second Friday of February application guidelines for details) 5’000€) Research Office
second Friday of July research@[Link]
 Mobility – host country different from the one
where PhD was obtained
 Mobility – max 6 months at the host lab at the
time of the submission

 Resubmission is allowed only once

Website: [Link]
EPFL Services: contact the Research Office

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 Funding instruments in detail

ETHZ
Branco Weiss Fellowship

■ Postdocs
Career funding
CHF 600,000 for up to 5 years (Pioneer phase: Branco WeissFellowship
the first 2 years of research; Exploitation phase: the remaining 3 years). 2018 awarded to
Dr. Nikolay Golubev, EPFL
Laboratory of Theoretical
BASIC APPLIED POC MARKET Physical Chemistry.
© Branco Weiss Fellowship

WHAT WHO CAN APPLY ELIGIBLE COSTS

Postdoc programme for exceptionally qualified young • You officially hold a PhD on January 15, 2025. All research-related costs (i.e. salary
researchers. The fellowship consists of a personal • Your PhD was awarded after January 15, 2020 and/or equipment, travel expenses,
research grant enabling fellows to work on a research (exceptions: parental leave or inability to work consumables, personnel, etc.) and 10%
due to illness or accident).
project in any disciplines at an academic institution of overheads.
• Assistant professors, lecturers and other faculty
their choice anywhere in the world, for up to 5 years. The are NOT eligible.
fellowship is international and transdisciplinary in nature.
Supported projects must depart from the mainstream of
research in a certain discipline.

Website: [Link]

Research
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 Funding instruments in detail

Fond’Action contre le Cancer

Grants

■ Established researchers
■ Postdocs
Project funding
Collaborative grants: no upper limit, max. 36 months
Fellowships: CHF 100K for 24 months.
BASIC APPLIED POC MARKET

WHAT WHO CAN APPLY ELIGIBLE COSTS FURTHER REQUIREMENTS

Support to collaborative, applied cancer For collaborative projects: Team of Personnel (excl. PI’s salary) and Co-funding from other sources is
research by established researchers and applicants. The main applicant (MD, PhD, project-related costs. Does not required.
support to young researchers in the field nurse or other) must be Swiss or be cover overheads.
of oncology in Switzerland. The research employed by a Swiss higher education or
topic can be pre-clinical, clinical or of research institution and should
public health. Priority is given to projects demonstrate the ability to lead and finalize
involving the development of innovative an innovative research project.
therapies for patients. For individual fellowships: the young
investigator must be an MD, a PhD in
biology or health care, be Swiss or be
employed by a Swiss institution, < 40 year
old, have the support of his/her supervisor
and the opportunity to build a career at the
institution of employment.

Website: [Link]

Research
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 Funding instruments in detail

Fondation Botnar

■ Established researchers
■ Postdocs
■ PhD students
Project funding
No upper or lower limit on funding or duration.

BASIC APPLIED POC MARKET

WHAT WHO CAN APPLY ELIGIBLE COSTS

Support to affordable, accessible and equitable innovations within the Researchers and organisations Personnel (incl. PI’s salary), consumables,
Foundation’s strategic focusareas: anywhere in the world. It is equipment, fieldwork, travel, subcontracting, access
■ Innovative and digital solutions for child health and wellbeing; expected that organisations to infrastructure, conferences and workshops,
receiving funding fromFondation national and international cooperation and
■ Cities fit for children and adolescents;
Botnar are undergoing regular networking activities. Covers 10% overhead.
■ Research for children andadolescents. external audits. Does not cover publication costs, exhibitions and
Support comes through the following funding instruments: Research infrastructure.

grants (support research projects ranging from innovation, validation to

implementation), Implementation grants (for long-term
implementation projects, which generate scalable impact) and
Basic grants (for smaller innovative projects).

Website: [Link]

Research
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 Funding instruments in detail

Fondation Dr. René Liechti

Coup de Pouce

■ Established researchers
■ Postdocs
■ PhD students
Project funding
CHF 50’000; no upper or lower limit for the duration.

BASIC APPLIED POC MARKET

WHAT WHO CAN APPLY ELIGIBLE COSTS

Support to start-up business projects that generate innovation or Anyone can apply. Personnel (incl. PI’s salary) and project-
sustainable development in the fields of economy, ecology, health, the fight related costs. Covers 25% overheads.
against poverty or address fundamental needs, such as water and energy.
Projects with a humanitarian effect are preferred.
The competition is aimed at the start-up related projects at the beginnig of their
development phase.
Applicants who already have significant funds or awards are not prioritized.

Website: [Link]

Research
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 Funding instruments in detail

Fondation Leenaards
Prize for Translational Medical Research

■ Established researchers
■ Postdocs Leenaards Prize for Translational
Medical Research 2020 awarded to
Project funding Prof. Andrea Ablasser for the
Max. MCHF 1.5 for up to 36 months. project “Blocking inflammatory
reactions against our own DNA –
An innovative treatment for
BASIC APPLIED POC MARKET autoimmune diseases”.
© iStock.

WHAT WHO CAN APPLY ELIGIBLE COSTS FURTHER REQUIREMENTS

Support to innovative A consortium of applicants composed of at least one research Personnel Applicants must join a letter of
collaborative projects, group at a higher education institution of the Lake Geneva (incl. PI’s salary), support from their institutions.
which investigate aclinical Region (e.g. EPFL, UNIL and/or UNIGE) and one group at CHUV consumables, equipment, Contact research@[Link]
problem from an original and or HUG. The third applicant can be based outside of the Lake travel, remuneration for at least 7 days prior to the
innovative angle, linking it to a Geneva Region. Preference is given to new collaborations. participants in clinical deadlinefor full proposals.
component of advanced basic The PI must be a clinical scientist (MD, MD-PhD, or PhD, trials/studies, ethics
research, be it experimental below the age of 45) with a strong academic career track and authorisations fees, other.
research, bioinformatics or demonstrated capacity to lead original clinical research as an Does notcover overheads.
epidemiological analysis. The independent investigator.
project must include a human All applicants should preferably be at a relatively early stage in
research component. It must their careers and must be employed for the entire duration of
stand on its own, but it can be the project.
embedded in the context of an Applicants’ roles in the project must be clearly specified.
existing project. Finally, applicants cannot have received the Leenaards Prize for
translational medical research during the previous 3 years.

Website: [Link]

Research
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 Funding instruments in detail

Fondation Leenaards
Dialogue between Science and Society

■ Established researchers
■ Postdocs
■ PhD students
Outreach funding Fondation Leenaards
Dialogue between
No upper or lower limit on funding or duration.
Science and Society
grant awarded to EPFL
BASIC APPLIED POC MARKET “Scientastic”.

WHAT WHO CAN APPLY ELIGIBLE COSTS FURTHER REQUIREMENTS

Support to projects contributing to the Institutions, associations and All project-related costs,excluding Co-funding from other sources is
dialogue between science and society, foundations based in the Canton of conference fees, construction, required.
namely exhibitions and festivals organised Vaud and Geneva. renovation, equipment and If you are interested, please submit
by institutions, associations and foundations. installation costs, overheads and your proposal to EPFL Science
The Foundation prioritises projects in the other operating costs, capital Outreach Department
biomedical or general scientific fields, with formation and deficitcoverage. ([Link]@[Link]).
multiplier effects in relation to its mission. It
does not support strictly personal projects
(thesis, scholarship, individual training,
travel, etc.), charity and fund-raising events,
symposia and seminars, the organisation of
symposia, sponsorships and projects from a
for-profit organisation.

Website: [Link]

Research
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 Funding instruments in detail

Fondation Leenaards
Local Solidarities – Age & Society

■ Established researchers
■ Postdocs
Project funding
Max. CHF 100’000 for up to 36 months.

BASIC APPLIED POC MARKET

© iStock.

WHAT WHO CAN APPLY ELIGIBLE COSTS FURTHER REQUIREMENTS

Support to projetcs that Academic institutions (universities or HES) can only be Research costs. Applicants must join a letter of
stimulate local solidarity for the co- applicants to the project. support from their institutions.
benefit of different generations. Does not cover overheads. Contact research@[Link]
Scope of action: Cantons of Vaud and Geneva at least 7 days prior to the
deadline for full proposals.

Website: [Link]

Research
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 Funding instruments in detail

Foundation for Technology Assessment (TA Swiss)

■ Established researchers
■ Postdocs
■ PhD students
Project funding
Call-dependent

BASIC APPLIED POC MARKET

WHAT WHO CAN APPLY ELIGIBLE COSTS

Thematic calls supporting interdisciplinary Applicants from higher education institutions Personnel (incl. PI’s salary), subcontracting,
studies, which evaluate crucial aspects of new, or scientific offices. Preference is given to overheads, other and, if applicable, TVA.
particularly controversial technologies. Studies interdisciplinary groups. The PI must have
must investigate the technical feasibility, economic experience with the management of projects.
issues, social implications, and environmental
impacts of suchtechnologies.

Website: [Link]

Research
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 Funding instruments in detail

Gebert Rüf Stiftung

Digital Education Pioneers

■ Established researchers
■ Postdocs
■ PhD students
Project funding
No upper or lower limit on funding or duration.

BASIC APPLIED POC MARKET

WHAT WHO CAN APPLY ELIGIBLE COSTS FURTHER REQUIREMENTS

This programme aims at contributing to create the “school Applicants from Swiss Personnel (incl. PI’s salary), Collaborative projects with PI
of the future”. It supports the implementation of pioneering higher education, research consumables. or project partner at a primary
projects at primary and lower secondary schools that provide institutions and non-profit Does not coverinfrastructure, or lower secondary school in
access to high-quality digital educational videos and digital organisations are eligible to equipment and overheads. Switzerland.
tools that support interactions among teachers and between apply. However. projects must Letter of support from the
teachers and students: collaborative teaching and learning, be either led by teachers from relevant school regarding a
skills acquisition, and knowledge processing in interactions primary or lower secondary possible implementation and
(reverse teaching). school or involvethem. scaling of the project idea
authority regarding a possible
implementation and scaling of
the project idea

Website: [Link]

Research
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 Funding instruments in detail

Gebert Rüf Stiftung

InnoBooster

■ Established researchers
■ Postdocs
■ PhD students
Gebert Rüf Stiftung
InnoBooster grant 2019
Projectfunding awarded to
Dr. Dimitrios Terzis,
Max. CHF 150’000 for up to 18 months.
EPFL Soil Mechanics
Laboratory, for the project
BASIC APPLIED POC MARKET “MeduSoil”.
© ZuzannaAdamczewska-Bolle

WHAT WHO CAN APPLY ELIGIBLE COSTS FURTHER REQUIREMENTS

Support to university-based, high-potential business cases from the Personnel employed ata Personnel (incl. PI’s Status of Sciencepreneur
Venture Kick programme with the aim of substantially accelerating Swiss higher education salary), consumables.
their market entry. In particular, the Foundation supports proposals or researchinstitution. Does not cover
where a R&D or design boost can speed up the success of the deep infrastructure, equipment
tech businesscase. and overheads.
Projects must:
■ Already be in the Venture Kick process.
■ Have obtained a BRIDGE PoC, Innogrant or equivalent.
■ Be rooted at a Swiss university (ETH Domain, cantonal university,
university of applied sciences). Research institutions (e.g. CERN)
are not eligible.
■ Foresee a lasting impact and be beneficial to society.

Website: [Link]

Research
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 Funding instruments in detail

Gebert Rüf Stiftung

Scientainment

■ Established researchers Gebert Rüf Stiftung

■ Postdocs Scientainment grant 2015
■ PhD students
awarded to Prof. José del
R. Millan, former EPFL
Outreach funding Defitech Chair in Brain-
Machine Interface, for
No upper or lower limit on funding or duration.
the project “Mental Work:
A Cognitive-Industrial
BASIC APPLIED POC MARKET Revolution”.

WHAT WHO CAN APPLY ELIGIBLE COSTS FURTHER REQUIREMENTS

Support to interdisciplinary projects addressing the need for a low- Interdisciplinary teams Personnel (incl. PI’s
threshold way of communicating about education, research and of applicantsemployed salary), consumables.
innovation, combining entertainment with the transfer of knowledge. within the scientific Does not cover
Projects must: community and other infrastructure, equipment
■ Stimulate discussion about forms of contemporary science sectors (e.g. sport, pop and overheads.
communication. culture, entertainment
■ Promote the development of new forms of science dialogue in and new media) in
collaboration with representatives of non-scientific target groups in Switzerland.
Switzerland.
■ Topics and formats are aimed at the general public. Projects’ form
is as important as their content.

Website: [Link]

Research
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 Funding instruments in detail

Hasler Stiftung
Open support –Events and Publications

■ Established researchers
■ Postdocs
■ PhD students
Outreach funding
Max. CHF 10’000.

BASIC APPLIED POC MARKET

WHAT WHO CAN APPLY ELIGIBLE COSTS FURTHER REQUIREMENTS

Support to events and publications in the field of ICT, which: The principal Salaries (incl. PI’ssalary Non-independent PIs must join a
■ Promote education, research or innovation in the field of ICT. investigator must be if PhD or postdoc), letter of support from the head of
employedby a higher equipment, consumables, their unit (“backer”).
■ Provide vocational or scientific training in the field of ICT.
education, research travel, conference Submit the letter to research@
■ Promote the understanding of ICT within the public domain or participation, other. [Link] at least 7 days prior to
institution or non-
specific target groups. Does notcover overheads, the deadline for institutional
profit organisation
■ Disseminate ICT knowledge or promote theuse of ICT within in Switzerland. central infrastructure countersignature.
the public domain or specific target groups. Companies and nor funding to start-up
■ Strengthen Switzerland as a centre of learning or business individuals arenot companies.
location in thefield of ICT. eligible.
The Foundation does not support the publication of dissertations.

Website: [Link]

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 Funding instruments in detail

Hasler Stiftung
Open support –Research Projects
■ Established researchers
■ Postdocs
■ PhD students
Project funding
Hasler Stiftung Open
Max. CHF 50’000 for up to 12 months for Small Projects; Support for Standard
no maximum funding for up to 36 months for Standard Projects. Projects grant 2017
awarded to Prof. Niels
Quack, Head ofEPFL
BASIC APPLIED POC MARKET Quack Group.
© Q-LAB

WHAT WHO CAN APPLY ELIGIBLE COSTS FURTHER REQUIREMENTS

Support to pre-competitive scientific or technical The principal investigator Personnel (incl. PI’s salary if Non-independent PIs must join
research projects in the general field of ICT in cases must be employed by a higher PhD or Postdoc),consumables, a letter of support from the head
where public funding (e.g. SNSF/Innosuisse) cannot education, research institution equipment, travel, conference of their unit (“backer”). Submit
be accessed. Projects must be based in Switzerland or non-profit organisation in participation, other. the letter to research@[Link] at
and be relevant for ICT theory or practice. The Switzerland. Companies and Does not coveroverheads, least 7 days prior to the deadline
Foundation supports projects that promote individuals are noteligible. central infrastructure norfunding for institutional countersignature.
education in ICT, address the social effects of ICT to start-upcompanies.
or interdisciplinary projects where findings from or
cooperation with other disciplines stimulate ICT.
The Foundation’s support goes to stand-alone
projects, projects that help prepare for public funding
applications or the continuation of completed SNSF/
Innosuisse/other grants.

Website: [Link]

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 Funding instruments in detail

HFSP Long-term Fellowship (LTF)

HFSP Cross-Disciplinary Fellowships (CDF)

■ Postdocs
Career funding
CHF 261,432 (+child allowance, if applicable), over 36 months

BASIC APPLIED POC MARKET

WHAT WHO CAN APPLY ELIGIBLE COSTS FURTHER REQUIREMENTS

• HFSP aims at bringing together • Applicants with a PhD in Biology (LTF) or • Living allowance (host Two-step application process
life scientists and scientists from from outside the life sciences (CDF) country dependent) must be carried out on
other disciplines such as physics, • Max. 3 years post-PhD • Child allowance ProposalCentral. Contact the
mathematics, chemistry, computer • At least 1 first author publication either • Research and Conference
Research Office to find out how
science and engineering posted as a pre-print, accepted for allowance
• Proposals should address publication, in press, or published • Travel and relocation to link your proposal to EPFL
important problems at the frontiers • Mobility: As of the earliest possible start allowance on the platform.
of the life sciences, or barriers to date, the applicant should not have spent
progress in the life sciences. more than 12 months, In the host country,
• Applications for high-risk/high- in the host lab, working with the host
reward projects are particularly supervisor
encouraged. • Nationals from non-HSFP Members States
• Projects may range from biological (MS) can only to go to a HSFP MS.
functions at the molecular and Switzerland is considered an HSFP MS.
cellular level up to the biological
systems level, including cognitive
functions.

Website [Link]
EPFL Services: contact the Research Office

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 Funding instruments in detail

H&M Foundation
Global Change Award

■ Established researchers
■ Postdocs
■ PhD students
Project funding
Max. CHF 200’000 for12 months.

BASIC APPLIED POC MARKET

WHAT WHO CAN APPLY ELIGIBLE COSTS

Support to early stage ideas presenting new circular approaches intended Any individual or group of up to 5 Personnel (incl. PI’s salary),
to reinvent the fashion industry. The Foundation seeks innovations: people over 18years of age anywhere consumables, equipment, [Link]
■ With digital technologies applications (e.g. connectivity, robotics, in the world, as well as institutions, not cover overheads, taxes, duties,
artificial intelligence, data, internet of things, machine learning) to make organizations and socialbusiness. charges or levies.
fashion circular. Commercial entities are not eligible.
■ Related to waste recovery, recycling or aimed at zero-waste.
■ Supporting a climate positive fashionindustry.

Website: [Link]

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 Funding instruments in detail

Holcim Stiftung
Stipend

■ Established researchers
■ Postdocs
Career funding
No upper or lower limit on funding; duration usually 24-36 months.

BASIC APPLIED POC MARKET

WHAT WHO CAN APPLY ELIGIBLE COSTS FURTHER REQUIREMENTS

Support to excellent research (fundamental, Advanced postdoc researchers PI’s salary and social charges 20% commitment time dedicated
applied, PoC, market-oriented) in any or assistant professors at the based on SNSF salary scale (usually to the project.
discipline or field conducted by outstanding beginning of their tenure track, who between CHF 90’000 and 120’000 At least two recommendation letters
young scientists inSwitzerland. aspire toa professorship. Applicants p.a.). Does not cover personnel from acknowledged professionals.
Priority is given to projects with a positive must be under 35 years old (a (excl. PI’s salary), project-related
social impact, which explore innovative 2-year flexibility is accepted only in costs, publications,participation
methods, new perspectives or novel exceptional, justified cases). (S)he in conferences, symposia and
lines of questioning that are crucial to the must have severalpublications. overheads.
advancement of science, and to projects
that are alreadyunderway.

Website: [Link]

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 Funding instruments in detail

IKEA Foundation Switzerland

Grants for events

■ Established researchers
■ Postdocs
■ PhD students
Outreach funding
No upper or lower limit on funding or duration.

BASIC APPLIED POC MARKET

WHAT WHO CAN APPLY ELIGIBLE COSTS

Support to: Swiss residents or applicants with Administrative costs (rent, fees,
■ The presentation of products and collections at public exhibitions anywhere in a proven link to Switzerland (lived technology, administrative outlay,
the world. in CH for at least 3 years or born costs for communication and
■ Competitions (only if their programme is determined by specialists and if in CH) at any career level. No marketing, wages etc.) and
their entries are judged by experts). age restrictions. overall costs for the event.

■ Workshops and lectures (only if they target students or address topics,

which are relevant to students).
Supported projects must be in the fields of Architecture (e.g. architecture, interior
design, landscape architecture (incl. scenography), urban construction and room
planning), Design (product design, furniture or lighting design, textile design) or
Arts and Crafts (ceramics, jewellery, pottery and glassware, textiles).

Website: [Link]
EPFL Services: [Link]/services-compendium

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 Funding instruments in detail

IKEA Foundation Switzerland

Work and Project Grants

■ Established researchers
■ Postdocs
■ PhD students
Project funding
No upper or lower limit on funding or duration.

BASIC APPLIED POC MARKET

WHAT WHO CAN APPLY ELIGIBLE COSTS

Support to the development of prototypes and products anywhere Swiss residents or applicants with a proven link to Production costs, material costs,
in the world in the fields of Design (e.g. product design, furniture Switzerland (lived in CH for at least 3 years or born overall costs and costs for planning
or lighting design, textile design) or Arts and Crafts (e.g. ceramics, in CH) at any career level, who are max. 32 years and administration.
jewellery, pottery and glassware, textiles). old.

Website: [Link]
EPFL Services: [Link]/services-compendium

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 Funding instruments in detail

. Individual Prizes: Postdoc Prizes

University Latsis Award

■ Postdocs
Career funding
CHF 25’000
BASIC APPLIED POC MARKET

WHAT WHO CAN APPLY ELIGIBLE COSTS FURTHER REQUIREMENTS

The prize rewards a scientist who EPFL postdocs, PATTs and SNSF-funded
conducted research making an professors as well as Eccellenza Professorial
important contribution and innovation Fellowship grantees can apply if they are less
in the field of science and technology. than 40 years old.
Tenured professors are not eligible.

Website: [Link]

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 Funding instruments in detail

Individual Prizes: Postdocs Prizes

Zeno Karl Schindler/EPFLAward

■ Postdocs
Career funding
CHF 20’000
BASIC APPLIED POC MARKET

WHAT WHO CAN APPLY ELIGIBLE COSTS FURTHER REQUIREMENTS

This prize rewards postdoctoral research EPFL postdocs can apply up to five years after Personal money.
work making an important contribution completing their PhD (the following exceptions
or innovation in the fields of will be considered: maternity, paternity, adoption
environmental sciences or or parental leave / inability to work due to illness
technologies and having a positive or accident / continuing education).
impact on the environment or sustainable
development.

Website: [Link]

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 Funding instruments in detail

Innogrant

■ Postdocs
■ PhD students
Career funding
CHF 100’000 for 1 year max

BASIC APPLIED POC MARKET

WHAT WHO CAN APPLY ELIGIBLE COSTS FURTHER REQUIREMENTS

The Innogrant is an entrepreneur grant  EPFL researcher or external entrepreneur  Salary of the applicant as  Candidates must be hosted
offering up to one year dedicated to startup founder in an EPFL lab acting as
accelerating a startup project and  clear startup vision based on a novel and spinoff incubator
getting ready to spinoff. scalable technical solution  Status of Sciencepreneur
 technology demonstrated in lab
 clear plan on what needs to be achieved in
the next year
 strong connection to a hosting EPFL lab

Website [Link]

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 Funding instruments in detail

Innosuisse
Innovation project without implementation partner

■ Established researchers
■ Postdocs
■ PhD students
Career funding
Project funding
No budget limit, 18-month duration max

BASIC APPLIED POC MARKET

WHAT WHO CAN APPLY ELIGIBLE COSTS FURTHER REQUIREMENTS

Support science-based innovation  Applicants should work at a Swiss research  Personnel costs (real  Non-independent
projects with great market potential, in body costs) researchers such as
the course of research work, where the  project displays a considerable innovation  Apparatus postdocs must have a letter
researchers have not yet found a potential and a clear business idea.  Expendable items of support from the head of
partner for the implementation on the  With the current state of research, there is a  Third-party services unit.
market. high risk of the project not succeeding on the  Travel abroad  In case of start-up projects,
This fund goes to projects such as market.  15% Overhead applicant must apply for the
feasibility studies, prototypes and status of Sciencepreneur
testing facilities.

Website [Link]
EPFL Services: Toolkit

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 Funding instruments in detail

International Foundation for Research in Paraplegia

Postdoctoral Fellowships

■ Postdocs
Career funding
Max. CHF 237’000 + family support and child allowance for up to 36 months.

BASIC APPLIED POC MARKET

WHAT WHO CAN APPLY ELIGIBLE COSTS FURTHER REQUIREMENTS

Support to basic and clinical research in Europe related to • Swiss nationals who want PI’s salary, The head of the host
central nervous system Regeneration, Neuroprotection and to join an outstanding project- related laboratory must issue a
Functional Restoration with special emphasis on the spinal laboratory or clinic abroad costs,travel, letter of acceptance,
cord. Research must be relevant to paraplegia. • Non-Swiss nationals who family support committingto employ the
The Foundation offers two types of postdoc fellowships: wish to work in Switzerland. and child fellow full time.
■ 24-month fellowship in an outstanding basic research • Holders of a PhD or allowance. Submit the letter to research@
laboratory specialised in one or several aspects of doctoral degree in medicine Does not cover [Link] at least 7 days prior
central nervous system (CNS) and spinal cord lesions • Must have at least 1 lead overheads. to the deadline for
and repair, preferably in mammals; author article published or institutional counter
accepted for publication. signature.
■ 12-month fellowship in a clinical research laboratory
situated in the fields of diagnosis and acute lesion • The host lab can be either a
management of spinal cord injury, including surgery, basic research laboratory
neurology, urology, rehabilitation, and other areas related or a clinical research
to paraplegia. laboratory.

Website: [Link]

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 Funding instruments in detail

Jacobs Foundation
Jacobs Research Fellowship

■ Postdocs
Career funding
CHF 165’000 for 36months.

BASIC APPLIED POC MARKET

WHAT WHO CAN APPLY ELIGIBLE COSTS FURTHER REQUIREMENTS

Support to conduct independent research of international Researchers anywhere inthe Partial coverage ofpersonnel Co-funding fromother
relevance world up to 10 years after (incl. PI’s salary up to 50%), sources is required.
■ To improve the learning, development andliving PhD. equipment, travel,other. The applicant’s deparment
conditions of children and youth or CHF165’000 include the 10% head (or other established
overheads. researcher) must send a
■ To contribute to one of the foundation’s thematic priorities:
confidential recommendation
science of learning, early childhood and rural livelihoods.
letter directly to fellowship@
The foundation supports research in any scientific discipline.
[Link]
Preference is given to interdisciplinary work that combines
genetic, epigenetic, neurobiological, behavioural and social
levels of analysis.

Website: [Link]

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 Funding instruments in detail

MSCA – Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions

European Postdoctoral Fellowship

■ Postdocs
Career funding
Amount depends on Host country and Researcher’s family status. Duration 2 years

BASIC APPLIED POC MARKET

WHAT WHO CAN APPLY ELIGIBLE COSTS FURTHER REQUIREMENTS

Transnational fellowship for the best  Up to 8 years after PhD (with possible  Costs of Researcher: See MSCA Workprogramme
and most promising researchers moving exceptions) Living costs, Mobility
to or within Europe and the Horizon  Researcher from any nationality moving to or allowance, Family
Europe associated countries to carry within EU allowance
postdoctoral research activities  Must not have lived in host country for more  Institutional Costs:
than 12 months in past 3 years Research, training,
networking costs +
Management costs
 Publication Costs

Website [Link]

Research
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 Funding instruments in detail

Novartis ResearchFoundation
FreeNovation

■ Established researchers
■ Postdocs
Project funding
Max. CHF 180’000 for up to 18 months.

BASIC APPLIED POC MARKET

WHAT WHO CAN APPLY ELIGIBLE COSTS FURTHER REQUIREMENTS

Annual thematic calls to support unconventional radical projects related to Max. 2 applicants holding Personnel Applicants must join a letter of
biomedical research with the ultimate aim of providing healthcare solutions a PhD or equivalent and (incl. PI’salary), support from their institutions.
for patients. employed at a reputable consumables, Contact research@[Link] at
Proposals must have the potential to open up novel research directions healthcare or healthcare- purchase or use least 7 days prior to the call
and aim beyond incremental innovation and discovery. They must also be related organization, of equipment, deadline.
particularly original and hard to fund by conventional funding programs due incl. higher education other. Covers 20%
to the “unorthodox” character of the idea or absence of a long-standing institutions, in Switzerland overheads.
academic reputation held by the researchers. throughout the duration of
Interdisciplinary proposals from scientists inside or outside of traditional the grant.
disciplines are welcome. Results from preliminary studies are not a
prerequisite.
The foundation does not support projects involving commercial activities
and/or those influenced by commercial interests.

Website: [Link]/fr/nos-activites/promotion-de-la-recherche/freenovation

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 Funding instruments in detail

Novartis Foundation for medical-biological research

Young Investigator Grants

■ Postdocs
Career funding
Max. CHF 80’000 for12 months.

BASIC APPLIED POC MARKET

WHAT WHO CAN APPLY ELIGIBLE COSTS FURTHER REQUIREMENTS

Postdoc fellowships to conduct research at universities and Postdoctoral researchers Personnel (in exceptional Support letter from host
research institutions outside of Switzerland, thus contributing (max. 8 years after their PhD) cases the PI’s own salary), professor confirming
to the advancement of young researchers’ scientific career. employed at a Swiss consumables, equipment, independence of the
The Foundation supports research in the field of medicine and higher education other. Does not cover applicant.
medically oriented biology/biochemistry. Projects witha Novartis institution at the time of overheads.
drug as a research focus are not eligible. the application.

Website: [Link]

Research
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 Funding instruments in detail

Novartis Foundation for medical-biological research

Fellowship Abroad Grants

■ Postdocs
Career funding
Max. CHF 80’000 for12 months.

BASIC APPLIED POC MARKET

WHAT WHO CAN APPLY ELIGIBLE COSTS FURTHER REQUIREMENTS

Postdoc fellowships to conduct research at universities and Young researchers (PhD / Living and accommodation Project-related costs must
research institutions outside of Switzerland, thus contributing MD) employed at a Swiss allowance. Does not cover be funded locally by the host
to the advancement of young researchers’ scientific career. higher education institution at the PI’s salary, project-related university/institution.
The Foundation supports research in the field of medicine and the time of the application. costs and overheads.
medically oriented biology/biochemistry. Projects witha Novartis
drug as a research focus are not eligible.

Website: [Link]

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 Funding instruments in detail

Nutricia Research Foundation

International training fellowships

■ Postdocs
■ PhD students
Career funding
max. EUR 25’000 for max.12 months.

BASIC APPLIED POC MARKET

WHAT WHO CAN APPLY ELIGIBLE COSTS

Support to research stays and research training in Young scientists (PhD students or up to 5 years Accommodation and other expenses, including
human nutrition at renowned institutions. These post-PhD) anywhere in the world. Applicants from round-trip flight costs.
fellowships allow young researchers to perform developing countries areencouraged.
short research projects and learn new techniques
that are not available at their home institution.

Website: [Link]

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 Funding instruments in detail

Nutricia Research Foundation

Research grants

■ Postdocs
■ PhD students
Project funding
Max. EUR 30’000 for max. 24 months.

BASIC APPLIED POC MARKET

WHAT WHO CAN APPLY ELIGIBLE COSTS

Support to nutrition-related research projects. Young scientists (PhD students or up to 10 years Personnel (incl. PI’s salary), consultant costs,
Where appropriate, applicants are encouraged to post-PhD) anywhere in the world. Established equipment, supplies, human volunteers,other.
show power and sample size calculations in full, investigators can apply as co-applicants. Applicants Does not cover travel costs, overheads or
and seek help from statisticians if needed. from developing countries are encouraged. investment in permanent equipment.

Website: [Link]

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 Funding instruments in detail

NWO Rubicon grant

■ Postdocs
Career funding
~EUR 199’000 for 24 months

BASIC APPLIED POC MARKET

WHAT WHO CAN APPLY ELIGIBLE COSTS FURTHER

REQUIREMENTS
Rubicon offers talented researchers In the five years directly preceding the • Salary For assistance with the
who have completed their doctorates in submission deadline, applicants must have • Incl. fringe benefits Acceptance form
the past year the chance to gain conducted scientific research at an academic employment, contact
• Travel costs
experience at a top research institution research institute in the Netherlands for a period
• Research costs ( limited the Research Office,
outside the Netherlands at least equivalent to three years fulltime.
amount) who will liaise with HR
Open for all scientific disciplines for a Applicants must be currently engaged in • Overheads not allowed
research project at a foreign research doctoral research or have been awarded a
institute. doctorate in the twelve months preceding the
relevant deadline

Applicants who are still engaged in doctoral

research may only apply if their supervisor
provides a written declaration approving their
thesis.

Website:Rubicon | NWO

EPFL Services: contact the Research Office

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SERI Bilateral cooperation programmes

■ Established researchers
■ Postdocs
■ PhD students
Projectfunding
Career funding
Outreach funding
Depends on the call

BASIC APPLIED POC MARKET

WHAT WHO CAN APPLY ELIGIBLE COSTS FURTHER REQUIREMENTS

SERI funding awarded by the Leading Research Partnership Grants Research Partnership Grants -
Houses for research cooperation with MENA • Senior scientist (including postdoctoral researcher) at • Direct research costs (max 25K
(HES-SO), Sub-Saharan Africa (Swiss universities in Switzerland must act as the main CHF). Partial salary costs will
applicant. Collaborating partners must be affiliated with a only be granted for the author of
TPH and UNIBASEL), LAC (HSG), East
university or a public research institute from the partner a joint proposal that is confirmed
and Southeast Asia (ETHZ), South Asia to be submitted to a larger
country.
and Iran (ZHAW) to encourage and support funding agency.
scientific and technological cooperation with Innovation Grants Innovation Grants
those regions. Types of funding: • Bachelor and master students at universities in CH • Maintenance allowance or
• Senior scientist (including postdoctoral researcher) at scholarship + international ticket.
Research Partnership Grants universities in Switzerland must act as the main • Travel; accommodation;
• Research projects applicant. Innovation agent partners must be senior staff consumables; equipment;
affiliated with a company, start-up, hospital, innovation workshops (max 20K CHF).
park or similar agency in one of the partner countries. Salary cost contributions are
Innovation Grants only permitted for the
• Industry Internships Mobility Activities preparation of a joint proposal to
• Innovation Partnership Grants • Young researchers (master, doctoral and postdoctoral be submitted to a larger funding
researchers) at universities in CH and the partner agency.
Mobility Activities countries abroad. For some calls, applications must be
• Exchange of young researchers submitted by the “sending” senior researcher (holding a Mobility Activities
permanent position) on behalf of the young researcher. • Maintenance allowance or
scholarship + international ticket.
Opportunity Grants and Strategic
Opportunity Grants and Strategic Initiatives
Initiatives Opportunity Grants and Strategic
• Senior scientist at universities in Switzerland. A single
• Project based on an opportunity / event. Swiss scientist or a consortium of Swiss scientists can Initiatives
Clear outreach component for Swiss act as the main applicant. • Travel, accommodation costs,
S&T. project consumables and
equipment (max 50K CHF)

Website [Link]
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SNSF Agora

■ Postdocs
■ Established researchers
Outreach funding
Small grants: CHF 5’000 - CHF 50’000 - Larger grants: CHF 50’000 - CHF 200’000; for 36 months

BASIC APPLIED POC MARKET

WHAT WHO CAN APPLY ELIGIBLE COSTS FURTHER REQUIREMENTS

The Agora scheme is aimed at fostering  Researchers employed at least 20% at a  personnel
dialogue between scientists and society. Swiss higher education or research institution.  expenses linked to the
It encourages researchers to  Project partners (with or without scientific project's execution, e.g.
communicate their own current background) must be affiliated to an institution production costs and
research (funded by the SNSF or recognized by the SNSF. materials
similar) to a target non-specialist  publication and
audience in Switzerland. It supports communication of the
outreach projects that initiate a product
dialogue between researchers and the
society, increase awareness, stimulate
interest and promote critical thinking
about the communicated research and
challenges.

Website [Link]

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 Funding instruments in detail

SNSF Ambizione

EPFL 2023 Ambizione

■
awardees Marina Micari
Postdocs (left) and Dr Caterino
Franco (right)
Career funding
Max. CHF 400’000 for project funds (for 4 years) + applicant’s salary

BASIC APPLIED POC MARKET

WHAT WHO CAN APPLY ELIGIBLE COSTS FURTHER REQUIREMENTS

Enhance young researchers' scientific  PhD obtained between 1 and 4 years prior the  Project funds only or • Support from host
profile and help them become application deadline. Project funds + Laboratory, Institute and
scientifically self-reliant at an early stage  Min. 1 year of postdoctoral research activity. applicant’s salary. School + approval from HR
with an independent research project at  PhD student salary
and, if applicable, ECO.
a Swiss research institution. (SNSF salary scale).
 Postdoc salary (50% • Detailed and General
covered by SNSF, 50% Confirmation Letters issued
by the institution). by ReO after internal
 Project funds (personnel, validation.
infrastructure/core
facilities, consumables,
equipment, travel,
conferences, Open
research data,
collaboration costs,
subcontracting costs).

Website [Link]
EPFL Services: Personal advice, Application Toolkit, Applicant Workshop, Grant reviewing services, Detailed and General
Confirmation Letters, Mock interviews. Please contact ReO

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 Funding instruments in detail

SNSF [Link]

■ Postdocs
Career funding
First phase: CHF 45’000 – 60’000 / year (depending on host country)
Return phase: CHF 85’100 – 88’100 / year
BASIC APPLIED POC MARKET

WHAT WHO CAN APPLY ELIGIBLE COSTS FURTHER REQUIREMENTS

Research stay abroad for postdocs  PhD – application from 9 months before  Living costs
starting their career for 24 months (but graduation to max. 3 years after graduation  Research funds (max.
at least 12 months), with a return option (exemptions possible) CHF 4’000/year)
to Switzerland (3-12 months)  Swiss nationality, valid Swiss permit or  Travel allowance
married to a Swiss national
 2 years of research activity in a Swiss
research institution

Website: [Link]

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 Funding instruments in detail

SNSF Spark

■ Postdocs
■ Established researchers
Project funding
50’000 to 100’000 CHF for 6 to 12 months

BASIC APPLIED POC MARKET

WHAT WHO CAN APPLY ELIGIBLE COSTS FURTHER REQUIREMENTS
The aim of Spark is to fund the rapid Any applicant with a doctorate or equivalent • Applicant’s salary (if The project must start no later
testing or development of novel and qualifications (>3 years of research experience). applicable) than six months after the
unconventional scientific approaches, • Salaries of scientific and decision is communicated.
methods, theories, standards and technical staff of the
ideas, etc. It is designed for projects research project Doctoral students cannot be
that show unconventional thinking and • Material costs that are employed on a Spark project.
introduce a unique approach. directly linked to the
research work
The focus is on promising ideas of high • Direct costs incurred
originality for which preliminary data through the use of
are not necessarily available (high-risk research infrastructure
research). Hence, negative results will linked to the research
also be regarded as knowledge gained. work
Projects or ideas that are unlikely to be • Costs for national and
funded under other funding schemes international cooperation
are welcome. and networking activities
carried out in connection
Applications undergo a double-blind with the funded research
review, where applicants are unaware
of their evaluators, and the evaluators
remain uninformed about the
applicants' identities.

Open to all disciplines.

Website: [Link]
Research
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 Funding instruments in detail

SNSF Starting Grant (StG)

Transitional measure replacing ERC StG, former SNSF Prima

and Eccellenza

■ Postdocs
Career funding
Max. 1M CHF project funds for 5 years (+ 100 kCHF startup fund from ECO + EPFL Prof. Tagliabue
(left) and Prof. Shkel
applicant’s salary if applicable) (right), 2022 StG
BASIC APPLIED POC MARKET awardees.

WHAT WHO CAN APPLY ELIGIBLE COSTS FURTHER REQUIREMENTS

Aimed at outstanding researchers of all  PhD obtained between 2 to 8 years prior to  Applicant’s salary. • Support from host Institute
nationalities in all disciplines who have a the call deadline.  Project funds (personnel, and School
doctorate or equivalent qualification and  Min. 2 years of postdoctoral research activity. infrastructure/core
• PAWTT status (no HR
are pursuing an academic career in facilities, consumables,
Switzerland. equipment, travel, approval required)
conferences, Open • Institutional support letter
Merges former Eccellenza and Prima research data, issued by ReO after School/
programs and reserves a fixed budget collaboration costs, Institute has committed to
share for projects led by women subcontracting costs) support
applicants.

Website [Link]

EPFL Services: Personal advice, Application Package, Applicant Workshop, Grant Reviewing Services, Detailed and General
Confirmation Letters, Mock interviews. Please contact ReO

* Updates about transitional measures here.

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 Funding instruments in detail

. SNSF Scientific Exchange (Event)

■ PhD students

■ Postdocs

■ Established researchers
Outreach funding
Between CHF 2’500 and CHF 25’000 for max. 3 months (for an event of 1-5 days)
Max. CHF 50’000 only if you apply for both types of grants in the same application
BASIC APPLIED POC MARKET

WHAT WHO CAN APPLY ELIGIBLE COSTS FURTHER REQUIREMENTS

Scientific event  PhD is NOT required.  Travel expenses, food
 host your own scientific conference,  Only 1 applicant. and board costs of
workshop or meeting in Switzerland.  employed by a Swiss research institution for participants from abroad,
 Both in-presence and hybrid events. the duration of the grant. provided they make a
 Work-time percentage may lie under 50%, but contribution.
should not be lower than 20%.  Child care costs.

Website: [Link]
EPFL Services: contact the Research Office

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 Funding instruments in detail

SNSF Supplementary Measures

■ Established researchers
■ Postdocs
■ PhD students
Career funding
Depends on the grant

BASIC APPLIED POC MARKET

WHAT WHO CAN APPLY ELIGIBLE COSTS FURTHER REQUIREMENTS

Mobility grants in projects Mobility grants in projects Mobility grants in projects
 to go abroad to improve your scientific profile.  Doctoral students employed in an ongoing SNSF  Travel, living costs, fees for
research project. conferences and workshops. Up
Flexibility grants to CHF 5,000 per accompanying
 to help cover the external child care costs Flexibility grants family member.
charged to the researcher and/or to help  Postdocs and doctoral students who have to look after
finance the salary of a support person, children and who hold a SNSF grant or are in an ongoing Flexibility grants
allowing the grantee to reduce his/her work SNSF research project.  External child care cost and/or
quota. salary of a support-person.
Gender equality grants
Gender equality grants  Young women researchers funded by the SNSF. Gender equality grants
 to finance career support measures.  Mentoring, coaching, courses,
Money follows researcher workshops (incl. travel costs)
Money follows researcher  Researchers who move abroad and would like current and conferences or events if
 to bring your SNSF funding abroad with you. SNSF funding to continue. they are conducive to
networking.
Protected Research Time for Clinicians Protected Research Time for Clinicians
 to help especially younger clinicians to  Active clinicians at Swiss hospitals who meet the Money follows researcher
dedicate at least 30% of their working time to eligibility requirements of the SNSF Project Funding  The SNSF makes decisions as
their research project funded by the SNSF. programme. to the further use of funds on a
case by case basis.

Protected Research Time for

Clinicians
 The salary costs related to this
guaranteed research time are
assumed by the SNSF and the
employer in equal parts.
Website: [Link]
EPFL Services: Toolkit.
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 Funding instruments in detail

SV Foundation

■ Established researchers
■ Postdocs
■ PhD students
Projectfunding
No upper or lowerlimit.

BASIC APPLIED POC MARKET

WHAT WHO CAN APPLY ELIGIBLE COSTS FURTHER REQUIREMENTS

Co-funding for research into healthy eating, particularly No restrictions. Personnel (incl. PI’s salary) and project- Co-funding from other sources is
in the fields of natural medicine, behavioural studies, related costs. Covers 20% overheads. required.
social sciences and food technology. Does not cover infrastructure costs.

Website: [Link]

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 Funding instruments in detail

Swiss Academy of Engineering Sciences

Germaine de Staël

■ Established researchers
■ Postdocs
Projectfunding
Career funding
Max. CHF 9’000 for up to 24 months.

BASIC APPLIED POC MARKET

WHAT WHO CAN APPLY ELIGIBLE COSTS FURTHER REQUIREMENTS

Support to collaborations between French and Swiss Researchers employed Short trips from Switzerland to Applicants must have their
researchers and research teams in any discipline by by Swiss highereducation France, accommodationcosts application countersigned by
reimbursing travel and accommodation expenses or research institutions or and daily allowance. Does not their institution. Sign and submit
incurred by Swiss team members as part of attending companies. cover overheads. your application to research@
meetings or conferences in France. Projects including [Link] at least 7 days prior to
PhD students and young researchers are particularly the call deadline for institutional
encouraged. countersignature.

Website: [Link]

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 Funding instruments in detail

Swiss Academy of Medical Sciences

Käthe Zingg-Schwichtenberg Fund

■ Established researchers
■ Postdocs
Project funding
Max. CHF 250’000 for up to 24 months.

BASIC APPLIED POC MARKET

WHAT WHO CAN APPLY ELIGIBLE COSTS FURTHER REQUIREMENTS

Support to research projects in biomedical ethics – namely Applicants must be employed PI’s salary and partial Co-funding fromother
clinical and public health ethics. The annual call for proposals is by a Swiss higher education or coverage of project-related sources is required.
either thematically open, and primarily addressed to young research institution, and hold a costs. Does not cover
researchers (ref. previous slide), or focused on a specific topic. PhD. overheads.
Projects must be of relevance to Switzerland and be in the
planning stage; funding will not be provided for ongoing
projects.

Website: [Link]

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 Funding instruments in detail

Swiss Academy of Medical Sciences

Young Talents in Clinical Research

■ Postdocs
Project funding
Career funding
Max. CHF 75’000 (for Beginner grants) and max. CHF 40’000 (for Project grants) for up to 24 months.

BASIC APPLIED POC MARKET

WHAT WHO CAN APPLY ELIGIBLE COSTS

Encourage young medical doctors to venture into clinical research by Young medical doctors employed at a clinic in Beginner grants cover the PI’s
funding «protected time for research» and «project grants» at clinics in Switzerland and who have obtained their medical salary, but no consumables
Switzerland. degree: and equipment.
Research fields eligible for support are: patient-oriented research, ■ Within 5 years of the call deadline Project grants cover
epidemiological studies, outcome-based research and healthcare (for Beginner grants). consumables and equipment,
research. Basic research is not eligible. but not the PI’s salary. Does
■ Within 8 years of the call deadline
Applicants must first apply for a Beginner grant, which funds«protected not cover overheads.
(for Project grants).
research time» for 12-24 months, and then for a Project grant, which
finances a subsequent research project for up to 24months. Project grants can only be requested byrecipients
of a Beginner grant.

Website: [Link]

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 Funding instruments in detail

Swiss Cancer League

Swiss Cancer Research Foundation
International Research Fellowships

■ Postdocs
Career funding
The level of funding follows the SNSF fellowship rates. No minimum duration; max. 24 months.

BASIC APPLIED POC MARKET

WHAT WHO CAN APPLY ELIGIBLE COSTS

Mobility fellowship offering young investigators the opportunity to visit a Applicants must be employed by a Swiss PI’s salary and travel costs, following
leading research centre outside of Switzerland in order to acquire and higher education or research institution, SNSF fellowship rates.
return with advanced training and further education in clinical oncology. be implicated in medical oncology, and Up to CHF 3’000 for open access
Only projects with immediate cancer relevance are funded. The have held a PhD for no more than 2 years publication (Green or Gold Road). Does
expected results of the proposed project should contribute important at the time of the submission. not cover overheads.
new observations or knowledge on the causes, prevention or treatment
of cancer. Basic research projects are not eligible. The Foundation only
supports industry-independentprojects.

Website: [Link]

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 Funding instruments in detail

Swiss Cancer League

Swiss Cancer Research Foundation
Scientific conferences

■ Postdocs
■ PhD students
Outreach funding
Max. CHF 5’000.

BASIC APPLIED POC MARKET

WHAT WHO CAN APPLY ELIGIBLE COSTS

Support for the organization of international Researchers employed at a Swiss higher education Costs incurred by the invited speakers’ travel
scientific conferences held in Switzerland for cancer or research institution. and accommodation expenses. Does not cover
related research conducted in Switzerland. overheads.

Website: [Link]

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 Funding instruments in detail

Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships

■ PhD students
■ Postdocs
Career funding
CHF 3’500 / month for postdocs; 1’920 / month for other scholarships.

BASIC APPLIED POC MARKET

WHAT WHO CAN APPLY ELIGIBLE COSTS FURTHER REQUIREMENTS

Research scholarships: for pre- All: Living allowance All:
doctoral or doctoral exchange at a Must not have been in Switzerland for more than Letter of support from host
Swiss institution. 1 year at the beginning of the scholarship. supervisor.
PhD scholarships: for a doctoral work Research & PhD scholarships:
PhD scholarships:
at a Swiss academic institution.  Master degree or equivalent.
• Candidate must first be
 Max. 35 years old.
Postdoctoral scholarships: for a post- accepted by one of the
doctoral exchange at a Swiss academic Postdoctoral scholarships: EPFL doctoral
Institution.  PhD degree completed before the starting school programmes.
date of the scholarship. • The thesis director MUST
 Max. 3 years after the PhD award. secure salary complement
up to EPFL standards +
funding for the 4th year of
PhD.

Research & Postdoctoral

scholarships: salary
complement required or not
according to HR rules.

Website [Link]

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 Funding instruments in detail

Swiss Research Foundation for Electricity

and Mobile Communication

■ Established researchers
■ Postdocs
■ PhD students
Projectfunding
Max. CHF 125’000 / no maximum duration.

BASIC APPLIED POC MARKET

WHAT WHO CAN APPLY ELIGIBLE COSTS

Support to empirical studies about the perception, All public and private higher education and research Personnel (incl. PI’s salary) and expenses for
acceptance or utilization of Electromagnetic Fields institutions in Switzerland and abroad. fieldwork (consumables, equipment, other).Does
(EMF) technologies, and/or the impact of mobile not cover office and other standard equipment,
communication technologies on, for instance, conference trips oroverheads.
human language or behaviour. Proposals in the area
of risk-communication are also welcome. Projects
may address both Extremely Low-Frequency (ELF)
and/or Radiofrequency (RF) technologies. Of special
interest are proposals focusing on 5G.

Website: [Link]

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 Funding instruments in detail

Synapsis Foundation
Career Development Award

■ Postdocs
Career funding
CHF 400’000 for 4 years.

BASIC APPLIED POC MARKET

WHAT WHO CAN APPLY ELIGIBLE COSTS

Support to basic and applied research on Alzheimer’s disease and other Advanced postdoc researchers at Personnel (incl. the PI’s salary only for
neurodegenerative disorders. This instrument accelerates the transition Swiss higher education and research phase 1)and project-related costs.
of advanced postdoc researchers at Swiss universities and research institutions. Does not coveroverheads.
institutions to faculty positions in Switzerland or other EMBO countries *.
Funding is awarded in two phases:
Phase 1:1-2 years of postdoc in a host laboratory in Switzerland;
Phase 2: 2-3 years in a faculty/group leader position at a new institution/
department in Switzerland or an EMBO country.

Website: [Link]

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 Acknowledgments

EPFL Research Office – Associated Vice Presidency for Research

Station 7, CH-1015 Lausanne
research@[Link]
[Link]/research/services/units/research-office
Photos credits: ©Alain Herzog/EPFL, ©Mediathèque/EPFL, unless stated otherwise
© EPFL 2022
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