SNSF simplifies Open Access publishing

The SNSF has set itself the goal of providing free and public access to 100% of all SNSF-funded publications by 2020. For this reason, it is further bolstering its funding of Open Access publications: as of 1 April 2018, it will accept higher processing charges for journal articles, simplify application for funding of such charges via an online platform and allow applications to be submitted retroactively (after the end of the project).

Improved support for book publications

In addition, the SNSF is introducing modular book processing charges (BPCs) for Open Access book publications: researchers may apply for funding for the digital publication of Open Access monographs; the books can at the same time be published on paper. The application process for the relevant grants has been simplified and can now be managed via mySNF. "OA is becoming a new standard of excellence. With these measures we are hoping to make also books more openly accessible in the future. The SNSF is set to play a leading role in this area in Europe," says Matthias Egger, President of the National Research Council of the SNSF.

Not only books but also book chapters will benefit from the new SNSF rules. Researchers can now apply for coverage of book chapter processing charges (BCPCs). In addition, the upper limit for the publication of articles has been lifted: as of 1 April 2018, it will be possible to request article processing charges (APCs) that exceed 3000 Swiss francs. Researchers will be able to submit funding applications up to six months after publication.

For more details, please refer to the Open Access page on the SNSF website