The International Exploratory Workshops of the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) enable researchers working in Switzerland to organise workshops with partners from abroad. The workshops can last between two and five days. Up to 30 participants from different institutions can participate. However, the SNSF will fund a maximum of ten researchers. The seminar is to take place in Switzerland, but exceptions can be granted if justified.
The aim of this funding instrument, which is open to all fields of research, is to allow researchers working on a similar question to meet and advance their knowledge on the issue. Typically, the workshop should bring together scientists with different backgrounds who might bring new insights to a theme by sharing their knowledge and actively working together for a few days. Interdisciplinarity is therefore encouraged. Furthermore, it is advisable to have a balance of established researchers and young promising scientists among the participants. In any case, it must be demonstrated that:
- the workshop allows for an exchange of information that is not possible from a distance;
- the workshop’s internationality brings an added-value;
- the workshop has a clearly defined scientific aim.
All relevant information on this funding instrument and on the procedure for submission of proposals can be found in the guidelines for International Exploratory Workshops.
Although the call for this funding instrument is always open, there are three cut-off dates per year when the evaluation process begins. The next cut-off dates are: 20.06.2012; 17.10.2012.