Workshop support
The COPL Workshop Support Programme provides funding for affiliated researchers – especially early-career scientists – to host interdisciplinary workshops (10–15 participants) that advance the Centre’s scientific mission on the origins and prevalence of life. The next submission deadline is on Friday, 24 April 2026
Purpose
To support the organisation of interdisciplinary workshops – ideally in the COPL spaces – that advance COPL’s scientific objectives through focused, collaborative discussion and exchange.
Eligibility
Applicants must be members of research groups affiliated with COPL and will act as the official host. Hosts are responsible for workshop organisation, financial oversight, and reporting.
Funding
Up to CHF 15,000 per workshop and the access to the COPL Common Room.
Typically supports:
- Travel (up to CHF 500 per external participant)*
- Accommodation + per diem (up to CHF 250/day for 4 days)*
- Lunches and social dinner
No support for room rental – use COPL Common Room.
*Only external participants are eligible for travel and accommodation expense coverage.
Workshop format
Typically 3 working days
10–15 internal and/or external participants
Application Process
Applications must be submitted through the form available on this page, and include:
- Workshop proposal with goals, context, and participant list
- Relevance to COPL’s scientific mission
- Detailed budget
- Dates and infrastructure needs
Assessment
Applications are reviewed by an ad hoc committee appointed by the COPL Directorate.
After approval
Budget is transferred to host’s ETH account.
Host manages logistics, reimbursements, and reporting.
Final report due 4 weeks post-workshop; unspent funds must be returned within 6 weeks.