Fields of Action

The National Research Foundation develops and implements research programs and projects, creates new knowledge, and attempts to apply innovative ideas for Health, the Environment, and Society. The NHRF is the first interdisciplinary research center established in the country, covering the positive and human sciences, with the three Institutes that comprise it: the Institute of Chemical Biology, the Institute of Theoretical and Physical Chemistry, and the Institute of Historical Research.

Scientific Research and Innovation

The main objective of the NHRF is to promote scientific research, contribute to the development of new scientific fields, and apply new methods and innovative technologies in the natural sciences, life sciences, and history of Hellenism. The research carried out at the NHRF is cutting-edge interdisciplinary research in fields such as drug discovery, technological innovation in advanced materials, biotechnology, digital humanities, diachronic approaches to the Greek world, etc. At the same time, the political, social, and cultural history of the wider Hellenic world, from prehistoric antiquity to the modern era, is also a subject of research. The NHRF has built up significant research infrastructure in all the sciences it covers. This infrastructure ensures the functional continuity and implementation of research programs, attracts collaborations, and consequently adds value to the academic community.

Education and Training of Researchers

The education and systematic training of young researchers is a central concern of the NHRF. The Foundation provides all the necessary facilities for the education of young scientists in the fields covered by its research staff: undergraduate and graduate students, doctoral candidates, and postdoctoral researchers can find accommodation and the necessary infrastructure for their research, they can collaborate on programs or even write their doctoral dissertations and postdoctoral research, thereby strengthening the NHRF’s collaborations with other academic and research institutions in Greece and abroad.

Implementation of Research Programs and Projects

The NHRF designs and implements research programs and individual research projects at the national and international level. It collaborates with other research institutions, innovative companies, government agencies, EU organizations, and other international organizations to fund and support research activities. By competing for and securing important competitive programs, the NHRF actively and successfully positions itself in the international academic landscape.

Linking Research to the Market

The NHRF consistently strengthens collaborations between the academic and business sectors. This involves applying research results to the market through the creation of new products, services, and technologies that promote innovation and economic growth. At the same time, historical research data feeds publications, scientific documentaries, and various applications for the cultural industry and the international promotion of the country.

Interdisciplinarity and Promotion of International Collaborations

Given that research progress can only be ensured through collaboration and synergies between scientists and institutions specialising in each field, and that interdisciplinarity is increasingly recognised as an essential component of research, the NHRF has set networking, open communication, and interdisciplinary collaborations as a strategic priority. In this context, research collaborations between NHRF researchers from different scientific fields and institutes are being strengthened, while the NHRF participates in a large number of international research initiatives and networks, systematically seeks funding for collaborative projects from the EU and other international organizations, and encourages researchers to participate in international conferences and collaborations, thereby strengthening the extroversion of Greek research and consolidating the country’s position in international scientific and technological developments.

Infrastructure development

Infrastructure development is a vital element in the operation of any research center. The NHRF manages research infrastructure and high-tech laboratory equipment, as well as databases of documentary material, promoting the dissemination of scientific knowledge and collaboration with the academic community. In addition, it actively participates in all initiatives for the development and strengthening of research infrastructure in Greece.

Support for Research and Innovation Policy

The NHRF collaborates with the state and other bodies to formulate policies that strengthen research and innovation in Greece. It contributes to the formulation of strategies for strengthening research and innovation at the national and international level, providing expertise and proposals for the best direction of policies and funding tools.

Dissemination and Promotion of Scientific Knowledge

The dissemination of research results to society is a central concern of the NHRF and a driving force behind its operation. Through the dissemination of research results and public discussions on scientific and social issues, the NHRF informs and educates the general public on key issues affecting society, health, and the environment.