NCCRs are aimed at established researchers in Switzerland who wish to pursue a long-term research project on a theme of strategic importance. The NCCR management teams are based at a higher education institution or at another renowned research institution. NCCRs are backed by one or more home institution.
The budget for each series of NCCRs is determined by parliament. In addition to federal funds, NCCRs receive funding from higher education institutions and from third parties.