# DFG Priority Programmes – Swiss Participation

**Funder:** DFG
**Duration:** Up to 36 months
**Consortium:** Required — Swiss researchers apply under a German PI
**Eligible countries:** CH, DE
**Official call:** https://snf.ch/en/Z2i6FpYa5sJNrKVu/funding/projects/weave-lead-agency-germany
**Last verified:** 20 June 2026

## Eligibility & scope

Swiss researchers can participate in DFG Priority Programmes at project level by submitting applications under a German PI. Maximum project duration in both countries is 36 months. Applications evaluated by DFG. Open to researchers based in Switzerland.

## Summary

DFG Priority Programmes welcome Swiss researcher participation at the project level under a German principal investigator, with funding reviewed and awarded by DFG alongside German co-applicants. Projects run for up to 36 months and integrate Swiss expertise into DFG's thematic priority initiatives. This pathway allows Swiss institutions to access structured, competitive funding within a binational framework.

## Who should apply

- Researchers based at Swiss academic or research institutions
- Co-applicants working under a German principal investigator
- Teams with complementary expertise spanning Switzerland and Germany
- Projects aligned with active DFG Priority Programme themes

## Key dates

- Deadline varies per active Priority Programme (consult DFG website for thematic tracks)
- Project duration: maximum 36 months
- Single evaluation track: DFG review alongside German applications

## Tips for applicants

- A Swiss-German team must designate a single German PI; the DFG application portal routes consortia through the German host institution.
- Check the active Priority Programme list on dfg.de before approach, not all programmes accept international participation equally.
- Budget and workplan clarity on the Swiss contribution is critical; justify staffing and resources dedicated to the Swiss partner explicitly.

## Frequently asked questions

### Can Swiss researchers apply to DFG Priority Programmes as project partners?

Yes, Swiss researchers can participate at project level within a consortium led by a German principal investigator. The application is submitted and evaluated by DFG as a single project.

### How long can a DFG Priority Programme project run?

Up to 36 months across both the German and Swiss portions of the project.

### How are Swiss-German Priority Programme projects evaluated?

DFG evaluates all projects in the call, including those with Swiss partners, according to the same peer-review and priority-ranking criteria applied to German-only applications.

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