If possible, the doctoral programoffersone-year start-up scholarships of CHF 30,000 twice a year.
The application deadline for the scholarship starting on April 1, 2026 is January 9, 2026.

The start-up grant allows young researchers to prepare funding applications during the initial phase of their doctorate, with which they can apply to the Swiss National Science Foundation or another institution for further funding for their research project.

The beneficiaries may have a part-time job of no more than 25%.

The following points form the application profile:

• Master's or licentiate degree from a law faculty in Switzerland or an equivalent degree from a recognized foreign university. Average grade of at least 5.0 according to the Swiss grading system or an equivalent foreign degree. In the case of candidates who are about to complete their studies or who come from other disciplines, the doctoral committee will decide on admission and the conditions associated with it after consultation with the prospective first supervisor.
• Existence of a confirmation of supervision.
• As a rule, the period between the university degree or state examination and the application should not exceed two years (subject to justified exceptions [e.g. bar exam]).
• Above-average motivation to engage academically with the research question and a willingness to work in an interdisciplinary manner are expected.