ETH Newshttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news.htmlETH WCMS2024-03-19T06:00:00ZFaster diagnosis of endometriosis with AIInken De Withttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/03/faster-diagnosis-of-endometriosis-with-ai.html2024-03-19T06:00:00ZETH spin-off dAIgnose is developing an algorithm that can be used to analyse ultrasound images of the womb on an automated basis. This should enable doctors to diagnose endometriosis more quickly in the future.Pesticide-free as a new pathway for agricultureProf. Robert Fingerhttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/03/blog-pesticide-free-as-a-new-pathway-for-agriculture.html2024-03-18T07:00:00ZWe can transition to pesticide-free agriculture without converting to organic farming. Robert Finger outlines the advantages and challenges involved.Combatting infant malnutritionSamuel Schlaeflihttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/03/combatting-infant-malnutrition.html2024-03-15T06:00:00ZBioengineer Randall Platt engineers bacteria that can assess the state of our guts. It is hoped this non-invasive technique could eventually be used to develop more effective interventions against malnutrition among children in the Global South.ANYmal can do parkour and walk across rubbleFabio Bergaminhttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/03/anymal-can-do-parkour-and-walk-across-rubble.html2024-03-13T18:00:00ZThe quadrupedal robot ANYmal went back to school and has learned a lot. ETH Zurich researchers used machine learning to teach it new skills: the robot can now climb over obstacles and successfully negotiate pitfalls.A new ion trap for larger quantum computersOliver Morschhttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/03/a-new-ion-trap-for-larger-quantum-computers.html2024-03-13T16:00:00ZResearchers at ETH have managed to trap ions using static electric and magnetic fields and to perform quantum operations on them. In the future such traps could be used to realize quantum computers with far more quantum bits than have been possible up to now.Artificial intelligence detects heart defects in newbornsVanessa Bleichhttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/03/artificial-intelligence-detects-heart-defects-in-newborns.html2024-03-13T07:00:00ZResearchers from ETH Zurich and KUNO Klinik St. Hedwig in Regensburg have developed an algorithm that provides an automatic and reliable method of detecting a certain heart defect in newborns.A thirst for adventureAndres Eberhardhttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/03/globe-a-thirst-for-adventure.html2024-03-12T06:30:00ZSport and an interest in healthy eating took Martina Pfeiffer first to ETH Zurich and then to Swiss beverage producer Rivella. Her active lifestyle has always kept her at the top of her game.  Allies from the deepKarin Köchlehttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/03/allies-from-the-deep.html2024-03-12T06:00:00ZEstelle Clerc searches remote waters such as the deep ocean for bacteria that can degrade specific pollutants such as microplastics, pharmaceuticals and pesticides.“My aim is to give students a sense of how multifaceted the world is.”Karin Köchlehttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/03/globe-my-aim-is-to-give-students-a-sense-of-how-multifaceted-the-world-is.html2024-03-12T06:00:00ZArtist Rosa Barba is constantly seeking new perspectives. At ETH, she works to bring art together with architecture, science and engineering.Designed for bold visionsFlorian Meyerhttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/03/globe-designed-for-bold-visions.html2024-03-12T06:00:00ZThe idea of ETH Zurich establishing a Department of Biosystems in Basel once seemed unachievable. Today, the department occupies a new building where the dividing lines between biology, computer science and engineering are blurred – and researchers increasingly focus on medical applicationsMini-organs with big potentialCorinne Johannssenhttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/03/globe-mini-organs-with-big-potential.html2024-03-12T06:00:00ZOrganoids grown from human stem cells can help provide answers to important medical questions. In a partnership that looks set to profit both sides, ETH professor Barbara Treutlein has teamed up with pharma giant Roche to advance research in this area.Cutting-edge research from BaselKarin Köchlehttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/03/globe-cutting-edge-research-from-basel.html2024-03-12T06:00:00ZFrom new tests and therapies to the fundamental principles of biology: five compelling examples of the benefits of new bioengineering technologies.A new direction for cancer researchFabio Bergaminhttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/03/a-new-direction-for-cancer-research.html2024-03-12T06:00:00ZIn collaboration with University Hospital Basel, researchers from ETH are investigating the early stages of bladder cancer. Their findings show that future research should also focus on mechanical changes in tumour tissue.Bridging the Gap with Policy Fellow Regina WitterChristoph Elhardthttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/03/bridging-the-gap-with-policy-fellow-regina-witter.html2024-03-12T06:00:00ZThe new ETH Policy Fellowship aims to foster greater understanding between government and the academic world. Regina Witter from the Federal Office for Spatial Development was among the first cohort to take part.How to fail productivelyKilian Kesslerhttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/03/how-to-fail-productively.html2024-03-11T06:00:00ZIn a pilot project, apprentices from four different professions in the Department of Physics had to work together to build an interactive exhibition object. They learnt a lot about team building, interdisciplinary work and how to fail productively. &quot;Physics4mation&quot; is now an integral part of the apprenticeship programme.Triathlon medallist and ETH student: “A non-productive day is not the end of the world.”Nicole Davidsonhttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/03/triathlon-medallist-and-eth-student-a-non-productive-day-is-not-the-end-of-the-world.html2024-03-11T06:00:00ZStudying at ETH Zurich is demanding, and all students have their own personal hurdles to overcome. This video series portrays ETH students.Recycling plastic is not a quick fixHelene Wiesingerhttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/03/blog-recycling-plastic-is-not-a-quick-fix.html2024-03-08T06:00:00ZRecycling is an accepted formula for sustainable resource use, but in the case of plastic it can have serious side effects, says Helene Wiesinger – and uses the example of plastic flooring in Switzerland to illustrate the dilemma.New appointments at ETH ZurichEditorial teamhttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/03/new-appointments-at-eth-zurich.html2024-03-07T14:30:00ZAt its meeting of 6 and 7 March 2024 and upon application of Joël Mesot, President of ETH Zurich, the ETH Board appointed nine professors. The Board also awarded the title of &quot;Professor&quot; three times and the title of &quot;Professor of Practice&quot; once.The man for freak eventsFranziska Schmidhttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/03/the-man-for-freak-events.html2024-03-07T06:00:00ZChristoph Schär is one of the Swiss climate scientists who have shaped high-resolution climate modelling. He is now retiring after more than 35 years at ETH Zurich. In this portrait, he explains why he himself never tires of researching climate change.Strengthening Switzerland’s start-up ecosystemChristoph Elhardthttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/03/strengthening-switzerlands-start-up-ecosystem.html2024-03-06T14:00:00ZETH Zurich and UBS held an initial joint deeptech investor summit for start-ups at the start of March. This enabled the university’s spin-offs to talk to potential investors and present their business ideas and technologies.ETH students accelerate private sector innovationRoland Baumannhttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/03/eth-students-accelerate-private-sector-innovation.html2024-03-05T06:00:00ZStudents at ETH Zurich are working together with engineers from the technology firm Bühler to accelerate innovation and minimise the attendant risks. It's a fruitful collaboration that other companies are also poised to benefit from.Cost of direct air carbon capture to remain higher than hopedChristoph Elhardthttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/03/cost-of-direct-air-carbon-capture-to-remain-higher-than-hoped.html2024-03-04T06:00:00ZThe cost of removing large quantities of CO<sub>2</sub> from the air will fall in the medium term, but not as much as previously hoped. This is the conclusion reached by ETH researchers on the basis of new calculations. Efforts to reduce carbon emissions should therefore continue at pace, says the research team.Turning waste into goldFabio Bergaminhttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/03/turning-waste-into-gold.html2024-03-01T06:00:00ZETH Zurich researchers have recovered the precious metal from electronic waste. Their highly sustainable new method is based on a protein fibril sponge, which the scientists derive from whey, a food industry byproduct.For equitable access to urban green spacesDr. Fritz Kleinschrothhttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/02/for-equitable-access-to-urban-green-spaces.html2024-02-29T06:00:00ZVacant land, community gardens and public parks are key resources for liveable cities. Fritz Kleinschroth calls on urban planners to focus on giving nature more space and on granting equitable access to green spaces.Do we have cosmic dust to thank for life on Earth?Peter Rüegghttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/02/haben-wir-das-leben-auf-der-erde-kosmischem-staub-zu-verdanken.html2024-02-28T06:00:00ZIt might be that what set prebiotic chemistry in motion and kept it going in the early days of the Earth was dust from outer space accumulating in holes melted into ice sheets. Researchers at ETH Zurich and the University of Cambridge have used a computer model to test this scenario.Finding and blocking infection routes in hospitalsDaniel Meierhanshttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/02/finding-and-blocking-infection-routes-in-hospitals.html2024-02-27T06:00:00ZDuring the COVID-19 pandemic, hospitals often became hubs of infection. Researchers from ETH Zurich, EPFL and the ISI Foundation are developing a wearable tracking system for healthcare facilities that can identify the risks of infections. Initial tests in Switzerland and Africa show its potential.Earth as a test objectCorinne Landolt and Gaia Donatihttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/02/earth-as-a-test-object.html2024-02-26T12:00:00ZPhysicists at ETH Zurich and the University of Zurich wanted to know whether the planned LIFE space mission could really detect traces of life on other planets. Yes, it can. The researchers reached this conclusion with the help of observations of our own planet.“Challenges offer opportunities for personal development.”Nicole Davidsonhttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/02/challenges-offer-opportunities-for-personal-development.html2024-02-26T06:00:00ZStudying at ETH Zurich is demanding, and all students have their own personal hurdles to overcome. This video series portrays ETH students.Former ETH President Heinrich Ursprung deceasedEditorial teamhttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/02/former-eth-president-heinrich-ursprung-deceased.html2024-02-23T06:00:00ZHeinrich Ursprung was President of ETH Zurich from 1973 to 1987. He led the bilateral negotiations between Switzerland and the EU in the field of research in his capacity as State Secretary in the 1990s. This influential figure in the Swiss higher education landscape passed away shortly before his 92nd birthday.Bio-inspired neuroprosthetics: sending signals the brain can understandOri Schipperhttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/02/bio-inspired-neuroprosthetics-sending-signals-the-brain-can-undrestand.html2024-02-21T06:00:00ZProstheses that connect to the nervous system have been available for several years. Now, researchers at ETH Zurich have found evidence that neuroprosthetics work better when they use signals that are inspired by nature.A sustainable fuel and chemical from the robotic labDaniel Meierhanshttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/02/a-sustainable-fuel-and-chemical-from-the-robotic-lab.html2024-02-20T06:00:00ZArtificial intelligence and automated laboratory infrastructure are massively accelerating the development of new chemical catalysts. With these tools, researchers at ETH Zurich are developing catalysts for efficiently and cost-effectively synthesising the energy source methanol from CO<sub>2</sub>.“It’s okay to take your time.”Nicole Davidsonhttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/02/its-okay-to-take-your-time.html2024-02-19T06:00:00ZStudying at ETH Zurich is demanding, and all students have their own personal hurdles to overcome. This video series portrays ETH students.Switzerland needs to do a better job of exploiting its innovation potentialProf. Thomas Zurbuchenhttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/02/blog-switzerland-needs-to-do-a-better-job-of-exploiting-its-innovation-potential.html2024-02-19T06:00:00ZSwitzerland offers tremendous opportunities for technological and entrepreneurial innovation. Thomas Zurbuchen asks, “How can we generate the momentum needed to maintain an edge in the face of international competition – especially when times get tough?”What can bulls tell us about men?Peter Rüegghttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/02/what-can-bulls-tell-us-about-men.html2024-02-16T06:00:00ZResearchers have found genes in the reproductive organs of bulls that influence fertility. The findings can be transferred to humans, as these genes are also present in men.Crash course for new parliamentariansChristoph Elhardthttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/02/crash-course-for-new-parliamentarians.html2024-02-15T13:00:00ZNewly elected members of the Swiss National Council are often confronted with a bewildering array of complex issues. ETH Zurich organised a special two-day seminar to equip them with scientific expertise in key policy areas.Pain relief without dependenceFabio Bergaminhttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2023/12/globe-pain-relief-without-dependence.html2024-02-15T07:00:00ZETH researchers have teamed up with Kantonsspital Baden to find ways of preventing patients from becoming dependent on opioid painkillers.ETH Zurich logistics tool saves ICRC millionsChristoph Elhardthttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/02/eth-zurich-logistics-tool-saves-icrc-millions.html2024-02-14T06:00:00ZThe International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) provides medical supplies to people in need. A planning tool developed by researchers at ETH Zurich will make this complex task more efficient in future and save the ICRC millions.Mario Kart in a wheelchairFranziska Schmidhttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/02/mario-kart-in-a-wheelchair.html2024-02-13T12:00:00ZThe new “Mobility and Inclusion” exhibition at ETH Zurich lets people find out first-hand the obstacles faced by people with impairments along with the technical aids available. From 2025, it will be on display as a permanent exhibition at the Swiss Museum of Transport in Lucerne.A new solution for energy transfer to heart pumpsChristoph Elhardthttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/02/a-new-solution-for-energy-transfer-to-heart-pumps.html2024-02-13T06:00:00ZRoughly one in two wearers of ventricular assist devices are diagnosed with an infection. The reason for this is the thick cable for the power supply. ETH Zurich researchers have now developed a solution to mitigate this problem.A medical degree programme for those who ask whyNicole Davidson, Florian Meyerhttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/02/a-medical-degree-programme-for-those-who-ask-why.html2024-02-12T11:00:00ZWhat began as a venture quickly proved its worth: The ETH Bachelor in Human Medicine is well received by graduates and has helped to establish ETH Zurich in the Swiss medical education landscape. In a video, five graduates talk about what makes studying medicine at ETH so special.Innovative coating prevents limescale formationPeter Rüegghttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/02/innovative-coating-prevents-limescale-formation.html2024-02-09T06:00:00ZWherever hot water flows, limescale is never far away. In households, this is a nuisance; in thermal power stations, it’s an expensive problem. Now researchers at ETH Zurich have found an answer.Why olivine and diamonds are best friendsCorinne Landolthttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/02/why-olivine-and-diamonds-are-best-friends.html2024-02-08T06:00:00ZHardly any gemstone is more difficult to find than diamonds. Geologists from ETH Zurich and the University of Melbourne have now established a link between their occurrence and the mineral olivine. This could make the search for diamonds easier in the future.New Master’s in Space Systems to be launched in SeptemberMichael Waltherhttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/02/new-masters-in-space-systems-to-launch-in-september.html2024-02-07T07:00:00ZA new Master’s degree programme in Space Systems will be launched at ETH Zurich in autumn 2024. Interested parties can start applying in April.Maintaining the “Swiss way” of promoting innovationProf. Hans Gersbach und Prof. Martin Wörterhttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/02/maintaining-the-swiss-way-of-promoting-innovation.html2024-02-07T06:00:00ZHans Gersbach and Martin Wörter explain why Switzerland should not join the emerging international subsidy race. Sticking with the proven “Swiss way” is much more promising.Visualising multiple sclerosis with a new MRI procedureChristoph Elhardthttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/02/visualising-multiple-sclerosis-with-a-new-mri-procedure.html2024-02-05T06:00:00ZThe loss of myelin sheaths in the brain is a hallmark of multiple sclerosis. Researchers at ETH Zurich have now developed an MRI method that maps the condition of this nerve insulation layer more accurately than before.A “cultivation battle” for legumesProf. Achim Walterhttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/02/%20a-cultivation-battle-for-legumes.html2024-02-02T06:00:00ZAchim Walter believes increased cultivation of legumes would bring major benefits. But how to persuade farmers in Switzerland to make the switch?Scientists successfully simulate protein complex that initiates fertilisationSimone Ulmerhttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/02/dynamic-decoded-scientists-successfully-simulate-protein-complex-that-initiates-fertilisation.html2024-02-02T06:00:00ZResearchers at ETH Zurich recently developed highly realistic simulations of the proteins on sperm and egg cells coupling together before they fuse. These findings enabled the research team to solve several mysteries of fertilisation at once, which could help to accelerate development of more targeted infertility treatments.Midday sun at the touch of a buttonMichael Waltherhttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/02/midday-sun-at-the-touch-of-a-button.html2024-02-01T10:00:00ZAt ETH Zurich, there is a room where the sun shines at the touch of a button; one hour it’s noon in the Sahara, the next it’s January in Berlin. Researchers use it to test newly developed building systems, components and materials.How to make bright quantum dots even brighterOliver Morschhttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/01/how-to-make-bright-quantum-dots-even-brighter.html2024-01-31T16:00:00ZResearchers at Empa and ETH Zurich have developed methods for making perovskite quantum dots faster and more efficient emitters, thereby significantly improving their brightness. This is relevant for applications in displays as well as in quantum technologies.Artificial muscles – lighter, safer, more robustFranziska Schmidhttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/01/artificial-muscles-lighter-softer-more-robust.html2024-01-30T06:00:00ZResearchers at ETH Zurich have recently developed artificial muscles for robot motion. Their solution offers several advantages over previous technologies: it can be used wherever robots need to be soft rather than rigid or where they need more sensitivity when interacting with their environment.Sound-powered sensors stand to save millions of batteriesPeter Rüegghttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/01/sound-powered-sensors-stand-to-save-millions-of-batteries.html2024-01-29T12:00:00ZResearchers at ETH Zurich have developed a sensor that utilises energy from sound waves to control electronic devices. This could one day save millions of batteries.How ETH knowledge and local expertise are helping the reconstruction of UkraineFlorian Meyerhttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/01/exhibition-eth-with-ukraine.html2024-01-30T14:15:00Z2024-01-26T06:00:00ZTwo years ago, Russia launched its war of aggression against Ukraine. One direct consequence of the conflict is the destruction of buildings and infrastructure. Now an exhibition in the ETH Main Building entitled “ETH with Ukraine” is showing how buildings, facilities and the environment in Ukraine can be protected or restored.Green Light for LISAEditorial Teamhttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/01/green-light-for-lisa.html2024-01-25T15:30:00ZThe European Space Agency’s most expensive and complex mission, the LISA space antenna, has reached a major milestone: it has passed the stage of intensive testing by experts in the Mission Adoption Review process - a significant step for the LISA consortium.Groundwater levels are sinking ever faster around the worldPeter Rüegghttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/01/groundwater-levels-are-sinking-ever-faster-around-the-world.html2024-01-24T16:00:00ZA global study shows that the world’s groundwater resources are dwindling: levels are falling sharply worldwide, and the decline has accelerated in the 21st century. Nevertheless, there is still reason for hope.Hydrogen: handle with careProf. Anthony Patthttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/01/blog-hydrogen-handle-with-care.html2024-01-24T06:00:00ZFor Anthony Patt, Europe’s ambitious plans for a hydrogen economy may be too ambitious, tipping the scales towards the interests of the fossil fuel industry, rather than energy consumers and the climate. Switzerland should be careful before jumping fully on board, he argues.New agent blocks stress responseDaniel Meierhanshttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/01/no-stress-response-thanks-to-new-agent.html2024-01-22T06:00:00ZIf the body’s natural stress response gets knocked off balance, it can result in physical and mental health disorders. Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed an agent capable of selectively inhibiting this response.Clarifying the cause of Guillain-Barré SyndromeMichael Kellerhttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/01/clarifying-the-cause-of-guillain-barre-syndrom.html2024-01-19T09:00:00ZGuillain-Barré Syndrome is a rare condition in which a person’s immune system attacks the peripheral nerves. People affected suffer from muscle weakness and paralysis. A research team led by ETH Zurich has now clarified the mechanism of this autoimmune disease.A virus that kills sleepersPeter Rüegghttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/01/a-virus-that-kills-sleepers.html2024-01-19T06:00:00ZETH Zurich researchers have found a virus that kills dormant bacteria. This rare discovery could help to combat germs that can’t be treated with antibiotics alone.A navigation system to combat bottlenecks in medication supplyChristoph Elhardthttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/01/a-navigation-system-to-combat-bottlenecks-in-medication-supply.html2024-01-18T06:00:00ZA new model designed by ETH Zurich researchers measures how flexible medication distribution systems are in real time. It shows that supply shortages can be eased if pharmaceutical wholesalers coordinate their inventories and reroute scarce products as flexibly as possible along existing supply chains.World’s most powerful supercomputers support UN SDGs and global sustainabilityhttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/01/press-release-worlds-most-powerful-supercomputers-support-un-sdgs-and-global-sustainability.html2024-01-17T12:30:00ZThe Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) and ETH Zurich, in collaboration with their international partners, are launching the International Computation and AI Network (ICAIN) at the World Economic Forum (WEF) 2024 in Davos. Its mission is to develop AI technologies that benefit society as a whole, as well as being accessible to all and sustainable, thereby helping to reduce global inequality.Brumadinho dam collapse: The danger emerged after the decommissioningBenedikt Vogelhttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/01/brumadinho-dam-collapse-the-danger-emerged-after-the-decommissioning.html2024-01-15T10:00:00ZIn 2019, the tailings dam at a Brazilian iron ore mine failed. The mudslide caused a catastrophe for people and the environment. A team of researchers at ETH Zurich has now uncovered the physical mechanism that may have triggered the accident.How wounds heal – and cancers growFabio Bergaminhttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/01/globe-how-wounds-heal-and-cancers-grow.html2024-01-15T06:00:00ZThere are some striking parallels between how skin wounds heal and how malignant tumours grow. Cell culture can help us understand the mechanisms involved – but animal testing still has a role to play.Capturing greenhouse gases with the help of lightFabio Bergaminhttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/01/capturing-greenhouse-gases-with-the-help-of-light.html2024-01-12T06:00:00ZResearchers at ETH Zurich are developing a new method to remove CO<sub>2</sub> from the atmosphere. It involves molecules that become acidic when exposed to light. Their new process requires much less energy than conventional technologies.Watt d’Or for efficient and sustainable power supply with photovoltaicsMira Weckerhttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/01/watt-d-or-for-efficient-and-sustainable-power-supply-with-photovoltaics.html2024-01-11T05:00:00ZETH Zurich researchers from the Automatic Control Laboratory and the electricity supplier AEW Energie AG have won the 2024 Watt d’Or award in the Energy Technologies category. Their algorithm, which was implemented at AEW Energie, makes it possible to optimise electricity grid operations.Three strategies to boost green electricity in SwitzerlandEditorial teamhttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/01/three-strategies-to-boost-green-electricity-in-switzerland.html2024-01-10T08:00:00ZClimate neutrality and nuclear phase-out: Switzerland's ambitious green electricity targets are realistic if the electricity supply is profoundly and rapidly transformed, as a study by the SWEET EDGE consortium shows. The researchers developed three strategies for expanding renewable energies.“The days of à la carte cooperation are over”Christoph Elhardthttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/01/the-days-of-a-la-carte-cooperation-are-over.html2024-01-09T06:00:00ZOliver Thränert was head of the think tank of the Center for Security Studies (CSS) at ETH Zurich for almost twelve years. On the occasion of his retirement, we spoke to him about the future challenges of Swiss security and defence policy.Why we need to know more about individual carbon footprintsProf. Thomas Bernauerhttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/01/blog-why-we-need-to-know-more-about-individual-carbon-footprints.html2024-01-09T06:00:00ZAs Thomas Bernauer sees it, information on the impact that different segments of the population have on the climate is an essential ingredient in making climate policy measures fair and acceptable to the majority.ETH spin-offs – an annual record set in 2023https://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/01/press-release-eth-spin-offs-an-annual-record-set-in-2023.html2024-01-08T08:30:00ZA total of 43 new spin-offs were founded at ETH Zurich over the past year, a new record. A particularly large number of young companies were created in the areas of artificial intelligence and biotechnology. In addition, an increasing number of ETH spin-offs are being set up by women.Improving patient safetyFlorian Meyerhttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/01/globe-improving-patient-safety.html2024-01-05T07:00:00ZOn the road to recovery, patients come into contact with clinicians from a whole range of disciplines. The importance of targeted collaboration between these disciplines is something medical students learn early on at ETH Zurich.Computer pioneer Niklaus Wirth has diedPauline Lüthi, Florian Meyerhttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/01/computer-pioneer-niklaus-wirth-has-died.html2024-01-04T14:00:00ZComputer pioneer Niklaus Wirth died on 1 January 2024, just weeks before his 90th birthday. The long-serving ETH Professor of Computer Science achieved world fame by developing the Pascal programming language in the 1970s. In 1984, he became the only German-speaking computer scientist yet to have received the Turing Award, which is regarded as the Nobel Prize for computer science.Let’s talk about solutionsDr. Cyril Brunnerhttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/01/blog-lets-talk-about-solutions.html2024-01-04T06:00:00ZMore and more people are afraid of climate change. For Cyril Brunner, this also has to do with how we talk about climate. We should focus less on problems and instead spend more time discussing solutions, suggests the climate researcher at the start of the year.The rocky road to the beginningAndrea Zellerhttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2024/01/the-rocky-road-to-the-beginning.html2024-01-03T06:00:00ZCraig Walton is the first NOMIS Fellow at the Centre for Origin and Prevalence of Life at ETH Zurich. With an unconventional idea, he wants to find out the conditions under which life originated on Earth.From high-speed electric cars to ETH in spaceRedaktionhttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2023/12/from-high-speed-electric-cars-to-eth-in-space.html2023-12-20T05:30:00ZWith its highly qualified graduates, cutting-edge research and knowledge transfer, ETH Zurich exists to serve Swiss society. The university demonstrated this once again in 2023. ETH News looks back at an eventful year.A picking robot for the greenhouseNicole Davidsonhttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2023/12/a-picking-robot-for-the-greenhouse.html2023-12-18T17:00:00ZWorking in a greenhouse is both strenuous and time-consuming. The picking robot from ETH spin-off Floating Robotics takes on particularly repetitive tasks, thereby alleviating the strain on human pickers. It is currently undergoing testing at Beerstecher AG in Hinwil.The magnificence of objectivity and a couple of solid proofsBarbara Vonarburghttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2023/12/the-magnificence-of-objectivity-and-a-couple-of-solid-proofs.html2023-12-15T06:00:00ZRaphael Steiner received his doctorate in mathematics at the age of 21. Now the Swiss National Science Foundation is funding his research at ETH Zurich in the field of graph theory. Among other things, this involves proving a conjecture that is over 80 years old.Accurate snow measurement thanks to AI and satellitesChristoph Elhardthttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2023/12/accurate-snow-measurement-thanks-to-ai-and-satellites.html2023-12-14T06:00:00ZSnow measurement has never been so fast and accurate: ETH Zurich researchers have developed an artificial intelligence capable of determining snow depth across Switzerland using satellite images.Artificial intelligence for safer bike helmets and better shoe solesETH News editorial teamhttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2023/12/artificial-intelligence-for-safer-bike-helmets-and-better-shoe-soles.html2023-12-12T16:15:00ZResearchers have trained an artificial intelligence to design the structure of so-called metamaterials with desired mechanical properties for a wide range of applications.A big step in joint researchKarin Köchlehttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2023/12/globe-a-big-step-in-joint-research.html2023-12-11T06:00:00ZSurprisingly little is actually known about how the knee works. ETH professor Bill Taylor plans to change this with a unique technology and a new 22-metre-long experimental facility.  ETH Zurich receives major donation and plans teaching and research centre in Germanyhttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2023/12/press-release-eth-zurich-receives-major-donation-and-plans-teaching-and-research-centre-in-germany.html2023-12-08T11:00:00ZETH Zurich and the Dieter Schwarz Foundation have signed a far-reaching letter of intent to establish a new teaching and research centre for responsible digital transformation with a global reach. Thanks to the foundation’s donations, around 20 new professorships are to be created over the next 30 years in Zurich and on the foundation’s teaching campus in Heilbronn.Twelve professors appointedEditorial teamhttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2023/12/twelve-professors-appointed.html2023-12-07T14:30:00ZAt its meeting of 6 and 7 December 2023 and upon application of Joël Mesot, President of ETH Zurich, the ETH Board appointed twelve professors and awarded the title &quot;Professor of Practice&quot; once.  Riding sound waves in the brainFabio Bergaminhttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2023/12/riding-sound-waves-in-the-brain.html2023-12-07T06:00:00ZETH Zurich researchers have shown for the first time that microvehicles can be steered through blood vessels in the brains of mice using ultrasound. They hope that this will eventually lead to treatments capable of delivering drugs with pinpoint precision.What should be done with all the carbon dioxide?https://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2023/12/what-should-be-done-with-all-the-co2.html2023-12-06T11:00:00ZCapturing carbon dioxide (CO<sub>2</sub>) from the atmosphere and storing it either in recycled concrete aggregate or in geological reservoirs in Iceland is not only technically feasible, but also has a positive carbon footprint. These are the findings of a pilot project lead by ETH Zurich and commissioned by the Swiss confederation.A forensic look at biodiversityPeter Rüegghttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2023/12/globe-a-forensic-look-at-biodiversity.html2023-12-05T07:00:00ZFrom the giant blue whale to minuscule microbes, all creatures on this earth continuously shed traces of their DNA. These clues help researchers to determine the degree of biological diversity.In pursuit of sweatKarin Köchlehttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2023/12/globe-portraite-noe-brasier.html2023-12-05T07:00:00ZNoé Brasier is fascinated by the emerging field of sweat analysis. He plans to measure the effect of heat stress directly on people’s skin – and help them protect themselves from health risks.Entrepreneur for women’s healthKarin Köchlehttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2023/12/globe-portraite-sabrina-badir.html2023-12-05T07:00:00ZFor her doctoral project at ETH Zurich, Sabrina Badir developed a device that determines the risk of premature birth. Today she is the CEO of spin-off Pregnolia, and her certified measuring device is being used in more than 20 clinics and medical practices.Dipping into the treasure troveFranziska Schmidhttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2023/12/globe-dipping-into-the-treasure-trove.html2023-12-05T07:00:00ZETH Zurich’s collections and archives include plenty of hidden treasures. Some of these are now on display in the new “extract” exhibition space in the Main Building.Teaming up for better healthCorinne Johannssen and Florian Meyerhttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2023/12/globe-teaming-up-for-better-health.html2023-12-05T07:00:00ZWhat’s the best way to translate research findings into clinical practice? A discussion with Monika Jänicke, CEO of the University Hospital Zurich, Rahel Kubik, head of radiology at Kantonsspital Baden, and Christian Wolfrum, VP for Research at ETH Zurich.Therapeutic success thanks to determination and robotsKarin Köchlehttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2023/12/globe-portraite-roger-gassert.html2023-12-05T06:00:00ZAfter suffering a severe case of Covid-19, Roger Gassert discovered for himself how important a role rehabilitation plays in recovery. The ETH Professor of Rehabilitation Engineering now plans to waste no time ensuring that patients profit from his developments.From registered nurse to biomedical engineerKarin Köchlehttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2023/12/globe-portraite-marianne-schmid-daners.html2023-12-05T06:00:00ZMarianne Schmid Daners was already fascinated by the human-technology interface when she worked as a registered nurse. Since graduating with a degree in mechanical engineering and a doctorate in biomedical engineering, she has been developing biomedical devices for the treatment of heart failure and hydrocephalus.Vision: To be a doctor without bordersKarin Köchlehttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2023/12/globe-portraite-mohammed-said.html2023-12-05T06:00:00ZMohammed Said is in his third semester of the Bachelor of Human Medicine at ETH Zurich. He plans to work abroad as a doctor and researcher one day and put his knowledge into practice in countries where people are not as fortunate as in Switzerland.Applying what you have studied in hospitalKarin Köchlehttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2023/12/globe-portraite-clara-ehrenzeller.html2023-12-05T06:00:00ZClara Ehrenzeller studied human medicine at ETH Zurich. Aspects of her course that she will never forget were her six-week research internship at a children’s hospital in Canada and her deployment at the Kantonsspital Baden. She is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Ticino.Modern adventurerStéphanie Hegelbachhttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2023/12/globe-modern-adventurer.html2023-12-05T06:00:00ZWhether on research vessels or testing her limits as an analog astronaut and pilot, alumna Sandra Herrmann has an irrepressible appetite for adventure, fuelled in part by her experiences at ETH Zurich.&quot;I’m fascinated by how modern technologies can help us reveal the inner workings of our planet.&quot;Karin Köchlehttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2023/12/globe-im-fascinated-by-how-modern-technologies-can-help-us-reveal-the-inner-workings-of-our-planet.html2023-12-05T06:00:00ZSeismologist Andreas Fichtner uses the newest technologies to explore the interior of the Earth. His research with seismic waves has also found applicability in the field of medicine.  Music and design in harmonyNicole Davidson, Corinne Johannssenhttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2023/12/globe-music-and-design-in-harmony.html2023-12-05T06:00:00ZIrma Radončić and Stefan Liniger are developing resource-friendly fabrication methods, which the two architects aim to employ in the creation of better and better concert spaces.Joint initiative for trustworthy AIhttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2023/12/press-release-joint-initiative-for-trustworthy-ai.html2023-12-04T13:00:00ZETH Zurich and EPFL are launching the “Swiss AI Initiative”, whose purpose is to position Switzerland as a leading global hub for the development and implementation of transparent and reliable artificial intelligence (AI). The new Alps supercomputer based at the Swiss National Supercomputing Centre (CSCS) provides the supporting world-class infrastructure.In search of lifeDr. Sascha Patrick Quanzhttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2023/12/blog-in-search-for-life.html2023-12-04T06:00:00ZSascha Quanz searches for traces of life on extrasolar planets orbiting alien stars. The astrophysicist believes that gaining an understanding of life and its origin on Earth is an important stepping stone.Watching electrons at workOliver Morschhttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2023/12/watching-electrons-at-work.html2023-12-04T06:00:00ZResearchers from ETH Zurich, Empa - Swiss Federal Laboratory for Materials Science and Technology, and Stanford have taken snapshots of the crystal structure of perovskite nanocrystals as it was deformed by excited electrons. To their surprise, the deformation straightened out the skewed crystal structure rather than making it more disordered.Replicating the structure of bird feathersDeborah Kyburzhttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2023/12/replicating-the-structure-of-bird-feathers.html2023-12-01T06:00:00ZModelled on nature: researchers have developed a new material that replicates the structure responsible for the blue feathers of the North American song bird, among many other birds. It also has other striking advantages.How Zurich has to change its roads to have more e-bikes than carsFlorian Meyerhttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2023/11/how-zurich-has-to-change-its-roads-to-have-more-e-bikes-than-cars.html2023-11-30T06:00:00ZWhat happens when cities gear their road space primarily to the needs of cyclists and e-bikers? On a new popular-science website, ETH researchers use examples from the city of Zurich to show what such an “E-Bike City” could one day look like.Lightweight insulating building elements from a 3D printerCorinne Landolthttps://ethz.ch/en/news-and-events/eth-news/news/2023/11/lightweight-insulating-building-elements-from-a-3d-printer.html2023-11-30T05:50:00ZA doctoral researcher studying architecture at ETH Zurich is using 3D printing to produce lightweight insulation building components from cement-free mineral foams derived from recycled industrial waste. These could cut heating and cooling costs for buildings, and encourage more efficient use of construction materials.