Call for
Ambizione Grants 2025
About Organisation
The Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) is Switzerland’s foremost institution dedicated to the promotion of scientific research across all disciplines, ranging from natural sciences and medicine to social sciences and humanities. Established under a government mandate, the SNSF plays a central role in fostering a dynamic research culture by supporting projects that push the boundaries of knowledge and innovation. By the end of 2024, the SNSF was funding nearly 6,000 projects involving over 22,000 researchers, reinforcing its position as the country’s leading driver of academic research.
Working in close partnership with universities, research institutions, and international collaborators, the SNSF ensures that Swiss research remains globally interconnected and competitive. A key focus of the organization is the development and encouragement of early-career researchers, providing them with opportunities to establish themselves as independent academics. Additionally, the SNSF conducts evaluations for large-scale, third-party-funded research initiatives to guarantee scientific excellence and accountability. Through its wide range of funding schemes, the SNSF not only strengthens the foundations of scientific inquiry in Switzerland but also contributes to shaping the global research landscape, thereby enhancing the nation’s reputation as a hub for cutting-edge, high-quality academic contributions.
About the Grant
The Ambizione grant is a prestigious funding scheme established by the SNSF to support early-career researchers in building their independent scientific careers. This grant is designed for researchers who wish to conduct, manage, and lead their own projects at Swiss higher education institutions, offering them the resources to strengthen their academic profile at an early stage. Open to both Swiss and international scholars, Ambizione fosters global research collaboration and diversity.
Two forms of Ambizione grants are available: one covers both the researcher’s salary and project costs, while the other provides only project funding. Both versions empower young academics to independently pursue innovative ideas in their chosen discipline. The grants are awarded for a maximum duration of four years, offering recipients a substantial period to advance their research, establish networks, and achieve self-reliance as principal investigators.
By providing structured support, the Ambizione program helps promising researchers transition into leadership roles within academia and strengthens Switzerland’s position as a center for world-class research. This initiative also plays a vital role in encouraging scientific innovation and excellence, ensuring that emerging scholars have the necessary platform to contribute meaningfully to the academic community at a global level.
Who can Apply?
The Ambizione grant is tailored for early-career researchers who aspire to establish themselves as independent investigators in Switzerland. Applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria that ensure readiness to lead their own projects. A doctoral degree (PhD) or completion of medical studies (Staatsexamen or equivalent) is a minimum requirement. Applications must be submitted within four years of completing the doctorate, with the official date of examination or thesis defence being the reference point.
For applicants from the medical field, those who have completed their medical exam and engaged in at least three years of clinical practice may apply up to nine years after finishing their medical studies. Possession of a specialist certification by the FMH is considered an added advantage. Additionally, candidates are required to have gained a minimum of twelve months of research experience after completing their doctoral or medical qualifications.
Ambizione grants are open to researchers across all academic disciplines, ensuring inclusivity and fostering multidisciplinary innovation. Importantly, the scheme also allows applications from scholars holding non-professorial academic positions at higher education institutions. By focusing on early-career researchers, Ambizione supports the development of the next generation of scientific leaders, offering them a foundation for long-term academic success.
How to Apply?
Applicants must prepare their Ambizione application according to the official guidelines, ensuring that all required documents and research plans are included. Submissions are to be made exclusively through the mySNF online platform. Candidates are encouraged to carefully follow the instructions provided, as compliance with format and requirements is essential for consideration. Early preparation is recommended to ensure timely submission before the official deadline.
Application Deadline
The deadline for submitting Ambizione grant applications is 4 November 2025 at 17:00 Swiss local time. Applicants must ensure all documents are completed and uploaded to the mySNF platform.
Last Date to Apply
Applications for the Ambizione grant will not be accepted beyond 4 November 2025. Late or incomplete submissions will be disqualified, making timely submission essential for eligibility and consideration.
Grant Amount
An Ambizione grant covers the grantee’s salary and project costs. Alternatively, applicants may apply for an Ambizione project grant, which provides only project funding. Both are awarded for up to four years.
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.
