Swiss National Science Foundation
SNSF PRIMA
Fellowship + research budget for excellent female researchers aiming for professorial careers in Switzerland.
About the SNSF PRIMA
SNSF PRIMA (Promoting Women in Academia) is a dedicated fellowship for excellent women researchers who are pursuing a professorial career in Switzerland. Like Eccellenza, it covers salary at a professorial level plus up to CHF 1 million in research costs over 5 years. Eligibility is restricted to women researchers with 5 to 9 years of postdoctoral research experience, hosted at a Swiss higher education institution. PRIMA specifically aims to correct the structural underrepresentation of women at senior academic levels. The evaluation places particular weight on the candidate's independence, research vision, and career-development narrative — acknowledging that female researchers often face additional hurdles in securing independent positions. Alumnae frequently transition into tenured professorships in Switzerland.
Key facts
- Eligibility
- Women researchers only
- Career stage
- 5–9 years post-PhD
- Duration
- 5 years
- Research budget
- Up to CHF 1M
- Success rate
- ~20–25%
Who is eligible?
- •Women researchers with 5 to 9 years postdoctoral experience
- •Hosted at a Swiss higher education or research institution
- •Demonstrated research excellence and independence
- •Career-development narrative articulating path to professorship
Frequently asked questions
+How does PRIMA differ from Eccellenza?
PRIMA is specifically for women researchers; Eccellenza is open to all genders. Other parameters (duration, salary, research budget, career stage) are similar. PRIMA exists to correct the gender imbalance in senior Swiss academic positions.
+Can I apply to both PRIMA and Eccellenza?
Not simultaneously for the same career cycle. Women researchers can choose which fits their trajectory better. PRIMA explicitly acknowledges career interruptions and non-linear paths that disproportionately affect women.
+Does PRIMA lead to a tenured professorship?
No formal guarantee, but the scheme is explicitly designed as a bridge to chair positions. Many alumnae have secured tenure-track or tenured professorships in Switzerland during or after the fellowship.
+Are trans women and non-binary researchers eligible?
SNSF's eligibility is inclusive of trans women. Non-binary applicants should consult SNSF directly, as policies evolve. Consult the current PRIMA regulations before applying.
Looking for proposal-writing advice?
Read the Swiss National Science Foundation writing guide →Related programmes
Swiss National Science Foundation
SNSF Eccellenza
Professorial fellowship with salary + up to CHF 1M research budget over 5 years for prospective Swiss professors.
European Research Council
ERC Consolidator Grant
Up to €2M for mid-career researchers 7–12 years post-PhD consolidating their independent research team.
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