# CIFAR Research Programmes – Swiss Researcher Participation

**Funder:** CIFAR
**Application:** Expression of interest (short abstract) → CIFAR selection → invitation to programme meetings
**Frequency:** Continuous
**Eligible countries:** CH
**Official call:** https://cifar.ca/research-programs/
**Last verified:** 18 June 2026

## Eligibility & scope

Swiss-based researchers can participate in CIFAR global research programmes via an SNSF-CIFAR partnership. Applicants send a short abstract with their profile and relevant CIFAR programme to SNSF; CIFAR selects candidates for programme meetings. Number of participants is limited.

## Summary

Swiss-based researchers can join CIFAR's global research programmes through an SNSF-CIFAR partnership by submitting a short abstract. CIFAR selects participants for programme meetings and ongoing collaboration in networks spanning artificial intelligence, biosciences, physics, and other priority areas. This is a rolling opportunity with no fixed deadline; researchers submit expressions of interest throughout the year.

## Who should apply

- Swiss-based researchers in any discipline aligned with CIFAR programme themes
- Academics seeking international collaborative networks and programme meetings
- Researchers at universities and research institutes eligible under SNSF rules
- Candidates with strong track records matching CIFAR programme priorities

## Key dates

- Rolling submissions: researchers submit short abstracts to SNSF-CIFAR partnership at any time
- Two-stage process: expression of interest (short abstract) → CIFAR selection → invitation to programme meetings
- Participant numbers limited; early submission may improve visibility

## Tips for applicants

- Align your abstract closely with one of CIFAR's active programmes (AI, biosciences, physics, etc.); vague or off-topic submissions are unlikely to advance.
- Keep the expression of interest concise and profile-focused; CIFAR reviewers assess fit, not project novelty, at this stage.
- Programme meetings are a major benefit, emphasise your interest in sustained international collaboration, not one-off funding.

## Frequently asked questions

### Can Swiss researchers apply to CIFAR programmes?

Yes, via an SNSF-CIFAR partnership. Swiss-based researchers submit a short abstract to SNSF, which forwards it to CIFAR for selection into global research networks.

### What is the deadline for CIFAR programme participation?

There is no fixed deadline; submissions are rolling and accepted throughout the year. However, participant numbers are limited, so early submission may improve chances.

### How do I apply to a CIFAR programme as a Swiss researcher?

Submit a short abstract with your profile and the relevant CIFAR programme name to SNSF. CIFAR then reviews the submission and invites selected candidates to participate in programme meetings.

### What do CIFAR programme members receive?

Membership includes invitation to programme meetings and participation in a global research network; no direct research funding is provided through this partnership pathway.

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Source: [The Great Grantsby](https://grantsby.eu/grants/cifar-research-programmes-swiss-researcher-partici-2026) — EU grant monitoring for academic researchers. Always verify details on the funder's website before applying.