Since 2006, the ETH Board has supported four themed competence centers for interdisciplinary research, within which the institutions involved in the respective fields work closely together. The competence centers cover four areas: Energy and Mobility (CCEM), Environment and Sustainability (CCES), Materials Science and Technology (CCMX) and Biomedical Imaging (NCCBI). Together, they form a platform for linking fundamental and applied research in order to give innovative stimuli to industry and society and provide a point of contact for external queries.
In 2010, the ETH Board dedicated CHF 15 million to supporting the competence centers. It wishes to continue to fund these and has accordingly incorporated them into its strategic plan for 2012-2016 as important elements in implementing the five key areas of focus. As of 2013, however, the ETH Board will gradually phase out its start-up funding.
