The International Exploratory Workshops of the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) allow for researchers working in Switzerland to organize workshops with partners from abroad. The workshops can last between two and five days. Up to 30 participants from different institutions can participate. However, the SNSF will fund a maximum of ten researchers. The seminar is to take place in Switzerland, but exceptions can be granted if justified. The aim of this funding instrument, which is open to all fields of research, is to allow researchers working on a similar question to meet and advance their knowledge on the issue. Typically, the workshop should bring together scientists with different backgrounds that might bring new insights to a theme by sharing their knowledge and actively working together for a few days. Interdisciplinary is therefore encouraged. Furthermore, it is strongly advised to have a balance of established researchers and young promising scientists among the participants. In any case it must be demonstrated that:

• the workshop allows for an exchange of information that is not possible at distance;
• the workshop’s internationality brings an added-value;
• the workshop has a clearly defined scientific aim.

All relevant information on this funding instrument and on the procedure for submission of proposals can be found in the Guidelines for International Exploratory Workshops.  The deadline for the next round of International Exploratory Workshops is the 14th of March 2012.