What is a National Research Programme? A National Research Programme (NRP) is a programme for carrying out research projects that help solve important current problems. The Swiss Federal Council determines the issues and focal areas to be addressed by each NRP. The Swiss National Science Foundation is responsible for implementing all NRPs. The aim of an NPR is to bring together different disciplines and institutions to carry out research projects focusing on a common goal. These projects must have the following characteristics: – their scientific research is of national importance for Switzerland; – they do not involve solely basic research, research on administration or industrial research; – the research will produce results within five years that can be used in practical applications.