Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research EAER

Turning carbon dioxide into valuable substances: That is the goal of Empa researcher Carlota Bozal-Ginesta. In her research project, she wants to combine machine learning and high-throughput experiments to develop better electrodes for CO2 electrolysis. For this, she has now been awarded the two-year Empa Young Scientist Fellowship.

Swissnex, Switzerland’s global network for education, research, and innovation, continued its mission in 2024 with impactful initiatives worldwide. The year was defined by a growing focus on climate action, artificial intelligence, and deepened global partnerships. The Swissnex Annual Report 2024 highlights the network’s key contributions to international collaboration and knowledge exchange, reinforcing Switzerland’s role as a global leader in innovation.

At CERN, the European Organisation for Nuclear Research in Geneva, an international research team led by the Paul Scherrer Institute PSI has conducted especially precise measurements of atmospheric chemistry. Through this study the researchers were able to show how harmful particulate matter arises from vehicular emissions and biomass combustion. Their findings are helping to make existing models of particle formation more accurate.

On 21 March, the Federal Council divided the Ordinance on Measures against Persons and Organisations with Links to Usama bin Laden, Al-Qaida or the Taliban into two separate ordinances. This decision reflects several UN Security Council resolutions. The ordinances will come into force on 15 May.

The 7th Meeting of the Swiss-South African Joint Committee on Scientific and Technological Cooperation was held in Bern on 20 March. The aim of the meeting was to further strengthen existing close cooperation. Participants discussed current cooperation projects and identified prospective new ones.

Companies benefit from free trade agreements and save CHF 2,2 billion in the process