What we do

The purpose of the Fund for Scientific Research (F.R.S.–FNRS) is to develop fundamental scientific research within the framework of initiatives presented by researchers. It encourages the production and development of knowledge by both supporting individual researchers, and also by financing research programmes conducted in the laboratories and facilities mostly located in the universities of the Wallonia-Brussels Federation.
Founded on the sole principal of scientific excellence, the financial support of the F.R.S.-FNRS comes in several forms:
- temporary or permanent remuneration of individual researchers,
- funding of research teams,
- participation in international networks and programmes,
- allocation of grants and credits which promote scientific exchange,
- awarding scientific prizes.
The F.R.S.-FNRS is also responsible for informing researchers about and encouraging them to participate in the European research and innovations programmes with which the Wallonia-Brussels Federation is involved.
The strategic plan of the F.R.S.-FNRS
Following the Phare I and Phare II refinancing plans, the F.R.S.-FNRS adopted the PHARE 20.25 strategic plan. The plan is ambitious and practical. Investing more into fundamental research has never been more important to our future.
The F.R.S.-FNRS has set out 6 priorities, which have been quantified both in terms of their objectives and in terms of their budgetary impacts. Each priority has been put into perspective thanks to contextual elements with regards to the current situation and the identified needs. Learn more (only in FR)


The 90th anniversary of the F.R.S.-FNRS represents an important message for current and future generations: one of determination, high standards and excellence.
Véronique Halloin, Secretary General of the F.R.S.-FNRS

Interview of @VHalloin in @LaLibre
Our job at the #FNRS is the selection and funding of fundamental research, which means managing more than 2 000 scientists, at various stages in their careers and from all the scientific disciplines.
Extract 1 - Extract 2 (La Libre Belgique, 13 November 2018, only in FR)