Mission Statement
Knowledge is the key to the future. Research creates knowledge.
In its mission statement, the SNSF describes how it aims to act in the best interests of researchers, political authorities, the general public and its own employees. It defines the ambitions and values informing its work.
- Quality. We promote scientific excellence. We also expect our own performance to be of a high standard.
- Independence. We operate autonomously and evaluate impartially.
- Responsibility. We are a reliable partner. We fulfil our tasks judiciously and al-ways act ethically.
- Fairness. Our decisions are well-founded and we respect equal opportunities.
On the basis of the mission statement, the SNSF derives strategic aims and specific measures for the coming years. These measures are aimed at ensuring high quality standards in research funding and at improving internal processes and organisational structures.
Our commitment to researchers
We fund projects in all disciplines. Our evaluation procedure is competitive and transparent. The quality of the research is our central criterion. Researchers from all over the world review proposals based on international standards. Clear and straightforward procedures are important. We aim to minimise administrative tasks. We learn from our experiences and adapt to the ever-changing landscape of research. Switzerland should offer an excellent research environment. We are dedicated, in particular, to promoting young researchers and to gender equality.
Our commitment to political authorities
We pursue a long-term strategy for promoting research in Switzerland and are dedicated to advancing its international integration. This consolidates the leading position of Swiss research in the global arena. On behalf of the Swiss Confederation, we contribute to the solution of important current problems through research programmes and centres of competence. We are committed to spending public funds responsibly. We ensure that our organisation is efficient, transparent and goal-oriented.
Our commitment to the public
Our work promotes the spread of knowledge in society. We ensure access to research results and communicate them to the public. We show how research contributes to social progress, economic growth and a high quality of life. We encourage public debate on the opportunities and limitations of science.
Our commitment to our academic partners
We communicate openly with our partners. We coordinate our activities with universities, academies and the Commission for Technology and Innovation. Together we work towards the advancement of Swiss research. We cooperate with our partners abroad to facilitate cross-border research activities and to play a part in shaping the international research environment.
Our commitment to employees
We strive to be an attractive employer. We pursue a fair personnel policy. Our organisational management is unambiguous and transparent. Our employees benefit from modern working conditions. We seek to provide a motivating working environment. We offer professional opportunities regardless of gender, language, background, age and health. Our everyday work is guided by our values.