Swiss Science Council recommends national AI infrastructure strategy
Bern, 12.05.2026 — The Swiss Science Council SSC sees significant strategic development opportunities for Switzerland in the field of data- and compute-intensive research. In a recent report, the SSC highlights the potential for the targeted further development of existing academic computing infrastructures in order to meet growing demands, particularly in the field of artificial intelligence (AI), in a sustainable manner. To ensure internationally competitive research on and with AI, Switzerland requires a suitable national computing infrastructure with sufficient computing ressources and international connectivity. Computing resources are understood to include all necessary components, services and personnel required to make them usable for the end-user. The SSC proposes a multi-tiered, interoperable computing infrastructure system that covers regional to international levels, is based on a national strategy, is led by a strategic committee and is supported by long-term funding.
Based on interviews with national and international stakeholders in this field, the SSC identifies significant development opportunities for academic research in conjunction with technological development. In particular, the rapid pace of technological change and intense competition for skilled personnel and resources offer the opportunity to further strengthen and expand the competitiveness of Swiss science in a targeted manner.
On the basis of analysis reflecting cross-system and international perspectives, the SSC formulates several recommendations:
National AI infrastructure strategy
As a key measure, the SSC recommends the development of a long-term national AI infrastructure strategy that provides for the establishment of a tiered computing infrastructure based on guiding principles such as flexibility, scalability, efficiency, interoperability, digital sovereignty, knowledge security and data lifecycle management.
Tiered computing infrastructure system
Based on this strategy, the SSC proposes a tiered computing infrastructure system covering regional to international levels. The system should be designed to be interoperable, offer uniform access and enable a seamless transition between the tiers.
Agile computing infrastructure strategy board
To shape the tiered computing infrastructure, the SSC calls for the establishment of an independent national strategic board. This board should be responsible for the design and further development of the computing infrastructure based on national needs and international developments. The Federal Council should establish this strategic board as an expert commission with the appropriate powers.
Financial implications: long-term funding
The SSC also emphasises the need for reliable, long-term funding of the computing infrastructure. Short-term project funding is insufficient to build sustainable capacity.
Significance for research and innovation
The report highlights the strategic importance of a suitable computing infrastructure for Switzerland’s entire education, research and innovation system. The aim is to secure the long-term international competitiveness of Swiss research in the field of AI and data-driven science, whilst simultaneously promoting synergies between higher education institutions, the public sector and industry – particularly small and medium-sized enterprises.
The SSC regards the proposed measures as crucial for positioning Switzerland in the global competition for AI expertise, computing power and scientific excellence.
The report is available in English, with summaries in German, French and Italian.