SNSF Call for Proposals: Spark Funding Scheme
The Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) is calling for proposals for the Spark funding scheme.
The aim of Spark is to fund the rapid testing or development of novel and unconventional scientific approaches, methods, theories, standards and ideas, etc. It is designed for projects that show unconventional thinking and introduce a unique approach. The focus is on promising ideas of high originality for which preliminary data are not necessarily available (high-risk research). Hence, negative results will also be regarded as knowledge gained. The focus is on projects or ideas that are unlikely to be funded under other funding schemes.
Eligibility:
- Spark is open to any applicant with a doctorate or equivalent qualifications.
- Applicants must have developed the idea for the proposal themselves and must be able to conduct the project without any instructions from third parties.
- Applicants must conduct the Spark project at a Swiss research institution. Only institutions pursuant to Articles 4 and 5 of the Research and Innovation Promotion Act (RIPA) are eligible.
- Applicants must either be employed (no minimum work quota required) at an eligible Swiss host institution providing the necessary infrastructure at least for the duration of the project or must have received written assurance of employment in the event of a positive decision on funding.
Funding details:
- Duration: six months to one year.
- Maximum grant amount: CHF 100,000; minimum grant amount: CHF 50,000
- The Spark grant may cover the applicant’s salary.
- The project must start no later than six months after the decision is communicated.
Read more here.
Proposal submission deadline May 2, 2023.
