Swiss National Science Foundation FAQs

Below are answers to Frequently Asked Questions about Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) funding.

  • How can I choose the right funding instrument for me?
    The Swiss National Science Foundation provides an introductory document describing the various funding options. It will help you find the right funding for your needs.
  • How should my research plan be structured?
    The guidelines for applicants will help you in the setup of a project. Information is provided about the research plan, your CV and publication list, your mySNF account and other practical information about submission and proposal evaluation.
  • Where do I find information on salary scales valid for the University of Fribourg in order to prepare my budget?
    The SNSF sets salary scales for doctoral students (in French and German only) within basic research projects. Scholarships for prospective and advanced researchers are also regulated by country of residence (in French and German only). Other applicable salary scales are provided by Financial Services. Concrete simulations for salaries can be requested from Personnel Services (Ms Giulietta Larese, giulietta.larese@unifr.ch).
  • Does the main applicant receive funding?
    For career funding, the grants are individual and fund the main applicant. For basic research projects, the main applicant is not funded but the salaries for his/her collaborators (doctoral students, postdocs, technicians) are covered, as well as materiel and travel costs.
  • How much can I budget for travel costs?
    The budget range for travel costs is set out in the General implementation regulations for the Funding Regulations (see § 6.7.4)
  • How do I submit my proposal?
    All applications have to be submitted online via the mySNF platform. We recommend that you create an account in mySNF as soon as possible, since a lot of the necessary information is provided in the platform itself. The guide and FAQs will also help you in the setup and management of your mySNF account.
  • Do I need to send a copy of my proposal to the SNSF Local Research Commission at the University of Fribourg?
    No, since the second semester of 2011, a copy of your application is sent automatically to the SNSF Local Research Commission via your submission in mySNF. The Commission will send then an institutional declaration from the University of Fribourg to the SNSF.
  • Can I look at previously submitted proposals?
    The Research Promotion Service cannot provide you with such a service but can give you advice on your research plan. We recommend that you contact a colleague who has already had experience with SNSF grants for further advice.
  • What should I do to prolong my project?
    The SNSF provides basic information about the lifetime management of research projects. Please refer to the SNSF related document.



Research Promotion Service - University of Fribourg - Ch. du Musée 8 - CH-1700 Fribourg - Switzerland
Tel +41 26 300 7333 - Fax +41 26 300 9728 - research@unifr.ch