The National Research Programmes generate scientific knowledge aimed at solving Switzerland’s most pressing problems. The topics are specified by the Federal Council.
The debate concerning major present-day problems usually requires an interdisciplinary research approach and practical know-how on the part of researchers. NRPs last from 4 to 5 years and are funded with CHF 5 to 20 million.
National Research Programmes are: problem-oriented; inter- and transdisciplinary; dedicated to achieving a defined, overall goal through co-ordination of individual research projects and groups; focussed on practical research results.