Investing in Switzerland’s researchers and their ideas

The Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) funds excellent research at universities – from physics to medicine to sociology. Thousands of teams from all academic disciplines generate knowledge through over 6,000 projects for a better future for all, and together with higher education institutions and its partners, the SNSF plays a key role in shaping Swiss research and innovation.

The SNSF also now has a seat on the Governing Board of Science Europe, enabling the sharing of their expertise at the highest level. Regarding this recent announcement, SNSF Director Angelika Kalt stated that “in Switzerland and at the SNSF, we are used to bringing together different cultures and finding constructive solutions that work for all. This is something we can share with Science Europe. At the same time, we now have the opportunity to play an even more active role in shaping international research.”

Spotlighting young researchers

The SNSF strives to create optimal conditions for the development and international integration of Swiss research, paying particular attention to the promotion of young researchers. One example of schemes put into place for young researchers is the Ambizione funding scheme. The Ambizione grants are aimed at young researchers who wish to conduct, manage and lead an independent project at a Swiss higher education institution. Supporting young researchers both from Switzerland and abroad, the grants cover the grantee’s salary and the funds needed to carry out the project.

One of the projects supported by this scheme recently conducted a ground-breaking study researching how society stigmatises same-gender couples, and how individuals who internalise this stigma are more critical of their partners when under stress. The initial insights provide a better understanding of the causes and consequences of internalised heterosexism in same- gender couples. “Although society is more open to people who do not fit the norm, such as LGBTQ+ individuals and ethnic minorities, psychologists and society should be more aware of the effects of stigmatisation,” says Nathalie Meuwly, a psychologist at the University of Fribourg who conducted this study.

An open science system

Providing simple access to past research projects is vital to the SNSF mission and its dedication to open access. 2022 begins with the SNSF implementing their new extensive database containing information on around 80,000 projects funded by the SNSF since 1975. “The new Grant Search database increases transparency and provides easy access to our data,” states Anne Jorstad, SNSF Data Scientist. “Anyone who’s interested can gain a deeper insight into our funding activities and the Swiss research landscape.”