December 2014

In experiments using ultracold atoms and laser light, ETH researchers have measured a stepwise change in conductivity as the atoms pass through tiny structures. This is the first time that this quantum effect has been observed for electrically neutral particles.

The Zukunftsblog editors wish all our readers happy holidays and all the best for 2015. If you are looking for some good reading material for the holidays or inspiration what to chat about at a Christmas dinner with relatives, here you can find a small selection from the Zukunftsblog archive. We’ll be back with fresh food for thought on 6 January. Enjoy!

Programmable cells that can detect cancer, canyons on Mars that may have been formed by lava, and black holes catapulted out of the centre of a galaxy: ETH researchers made a name for themselves in 2014 with some outstanding scientific achievements and exciting hypotheses. It was also a politically charged year for all Swiss research institutions. As the year draws to a close, the ETH News editorial team looks back on some of the most memorable moments.

Libraries do not infringe copyright by delivering copies and scans of scientific publications, the Swiss Federal Supreme Court has concluded. This reverses the judgment of Zurich Commercial Court.

Die Klimakonferenz in Lima hat die Diskussion, wie die Staaten die Klimaerwärmung stoppen wollen, nur wenig weitergebracht. Gibt es eine realistische Chance für ein Klimaabkommen in Paris 2015, wenn die Vorbereitung in Lima so schlecht lief?

The ETH Institute for Theoretical Studies (ETH-ITS) has really picked up speed since this summer, with six fellows devoting themselves to researching fundamental theories as guests of ETH Zurich. We paid them a visit.

Around 800 employees accepted their invitations to this year’s Christmas drinks reception organised by the Executive Board. It was Ralph Eichler’s last appearance at an event as President of ETH Zurich.

ETH Zurich is taking part in EIT Health, a new major EU research programme. As part of the project, more than 140 European companies and research institutes are developing solutions for problems in the field of health and old age.

The Mensa Polyterrasse will be closed after lunch on 19 December for renovation work. It is due to reopen on 19 January with brand new menus and more checkouts on offer. The Mensa Polyterrasse team will be running a reduced catering service in the dining area from 5 to 16 January.

An ASL production: in honour of Christmas, the lab's robots will do a choreographed dance that has taken a long time to rehearse – sorry – program.