National Centers of Competence in Research

National Centers of Competence in Research (NCCR) were created to provide sustained support to Switzerland as a center of research in strategically important areas. They are designed to foster interdisciplinary and innovative projects of the highest quality. And at the same time, the initiative aims to promote the concentration of energy and improved division of work among the Swiss universities. The timeframe of the NCCR is ten years.

The main features of the NCCR is that they:

• are attached to a domestic institution which guarantees long-term support
• are led by qualified researchers in permanent employment at the domestic institution
• consist of a center of excellence (leading house) and a network of scientists from other research institutions and industry
• concern subject areas which are regarded by the Federal Council and Parliament as strategically important and of long-term relevance
• offer integrative approaches, from basic research through to application
• promote knowhow and technology transfer
• have the resources needed to enable interdisciplinary research and the use of innovative approaches
• encourage young scientists and improve career opportunities for women in research
• provide mutual exchange between research and teaching
• offer international collaboration, partnerships with highly qualified research groups from outside Switzerland

In a preliminary round in December 2000, the Swiss Federal Department of Home Affairs approved ten projects. Four others were recently approved. In the longer term, the funding of 25 NCCR is envisaged.