DFG
DFG Priority Programmes – Swiss Participation
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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.
Details
| Funder | DFG |
| Duration | Up to 36 months |
| Consortium | Required — Swiss researchers apply under a German PI |
| Eligible countries | CHDE |
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.
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.
Related on Grantsby
- DFG writing tips & FAQ
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Summary generated by AI based on published grant information. Always verify details on the funder's website.
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