Basic research
Joël Mesot
President of ETH Zurich
Creating options for the future
Dear reader
Pushing the boundaries of human knowledge lies at the heart of what a university does. That’s why insight-seeking basic research is one of ETH Zurich’s top priorities.
History offers countless examples of how research driven by curiosity has paved the way for groundbreaking applications. Photovoltaics, for instance, would be unthinkable without the findings uncovered by ETH alumnus Albert Einstein in 1905 in his theory of the photoelectric effect. Imaging techniques like MRI, which are now indispensable in medical diagnostics, are the result of 80 years of research – to which no fewer than three ETH Nobel laureates made key contributions. But basic research remains a step into the unknown. While creating options for the future, it offers no guarantees.
ETH Zurich is fortunate to have donors who share the desire to push the boundaries of human knowledge and join us on this adventure. On the pages that follow, you’ll meet pioneering researchers who have set off into uncharted territory – come along and explore with us!
A quantum journey of discovery
As a doctoral fellow at ETH Zurich’s Quantum Center, Clara Galante Agero is continuing her research in fundamental physics. Alongside her scientific work, she helps researchers at the Center connect and collaborate more closely. read more
Opportunities in the unknown
Jacob Corn is at the forefront of genome editing, developing technologies to cure genetic diseases and advancing research to gain a deeper understanding of human health. read more
© Adobe Stock / ETH Foundation
Outstanding basic research
The Rössler Prize supports exceptional young ETH professors during the expansion phase of their scientific careers. Worth 200,000 Swiss francs, it is ETH Zurich’s most generously endowed prize and has been awarded since 2009 thanks to a donation from ETH alumnus Dr Max Rössler. The recipients over the years include numerous researchers exploring science’s basic principles. read more
© ETH Foundation / Daniel Winkler
Creating tomorrow’s legacy
Annekäthi Bischoff and Jörg Wilhelm have come to a clear understanding of the social impact they want to make. At ETH Zurich, they support female students who would otherwise be unable to afford a university education. read more
Talent for advanced AI
ETH AI Center fellows have the unique opportunity to work at the intersection of disciplines, co-supervised by leading professors. Paola Malsot and Riccardo De Santi, two such fellows funded by the Dieter Schwarz Foundation, embody this interdisciplinary spirit. read more