ABB and ETH extend partnership to advance research into the future of robotics

22 March 2021

Building on their long-term relationship across several disciplines, the global technology company ABB and ETH Zurich have expanded their partnership into robotics research as part of ETH’s RobotX strategic initiative.

ETH Zurich Foundation, ABB and ETH extend partnership to advance research into the future of robotics
Sketch of the RobotX Center for Intelligent Machines in the Machine Laboratory (ML) at ETH Zurich.
© ETH Zürich
Sketch of the RobotX Center for Intelligent Machines in the Machine Laboratory (ML) at ETH Zurich.
© ETH Zürich

Launched in 2019, RobotX aims to position ETH among the top robotics research institutions worldwide.

Advancing future technologies

As part of RobotX’s industry affiliation program, ABB’s Robotics & Discrete Automation business will support ETH’s ambitious initiative with its leading in-house robotics expertise to combine competence into a platform aimed at training new talent and attracting worldwide experts to advance a range of future technologies, including mobile robotics.

“We are delighted to partner with ETH as it is consistently rated among the top universities for engineering and technology in the world. Our partnership expands our global innovation ecosystem, supporting our engagement with the brightest minds to advance the future of robotics and unlock the potential of automation for our customers”, said Sami Atiya, President ABB Robotics & Discrete Automation.

New ways of collaboration

“A close collaboration between ETH and industry partners including ABB Robotics is essential in establishing Switzerland as a leading robotics research hub. With RobotX we are enabling both interdisciplinary research across ETH while establishing new ways of collaboration with an industry affiliation program, open lab space and sabbatical programs for researchers from our industry partners”, said Prof. Dr. Joël Mesot, President of ETH Zurich.

The partnership between ABB Robotics and ETH builds on an existing collaboration with ABB launched in 2014. To enhance the initial 10-year commitment with ETH, ABB has now directed a donation of CHF 2.5 million to support the RobotX initiative.