Several steps must be completed before actual research can begin under an NRP. A steering committee must be appointed to create an implementation plan defining the research focus. Then, the Federal Council must approve the implementation plan (after consulting with federal offices) and a call for submissions issued.
Interested researchers file pre-proposals. Those selected can then submit detailed proposals which are evaluated by the steering committee in cooperation with foreign experts. After the research council of the SNSF has definitely approved the proposals, research begins.
The following NRP have been approved by the Federal Council: