Leveraging Zurich’s Robotic Excellence for Impactful Business Events

Can you tell us a bit about your background? What brought you to Zurich?

I came to Zurich as part of my research career, which often requires moving between labs to acquire new knowledge and skills. I first arrived at the Institute of Neuroinformatics, a joint research institution between the University of Zurich and ETH, a public research university. It’s one of the most renowned places in the world for neuromorphic computing, blending neuroscience, AI, and robotics. I was thrilled to join such a creative and interdisciplinary environment.

After a break which took me to Germany, I returned to Zurich in 2023 to take up a professorship at the Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW). Here, I lead the Research Centre for Cognitive Computing in Life Sciences. Zurich is a true melting pot of ideas and cultures, which fosters innovation and collaboration across various fields. For me, it’s an inspiring place to live, work, and grow—professionally and personally.

The Greater Zurich Area is often called the “Silicon Valley of Robotics.” Why is that, and what kind of ecosystem does it offer?

There are two main reasons for this nickname. First, Zurich has a strong tradition of robotics research, led by ETH’s world-class engineering and robotics departments. This excellence stems from Switzerland’s legacy in mechanical engineering, combined with cutting-edge software development. Zurich has consistently produced award-winning robotics labs recognized worldwide for their pioneering contributions.

Second, Zurich boasts a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem. Many startups emerge from ETH labs, supported by an extensive network that nurtures innovation. The relationship between academia, startups, and industry is crucial here. Startups often evolve from PhD research projects, translating theoretical breakthroughs into market-ready solutions. This dynamic interaction ensures Zurich remains at the forefront of robotics innovation.

You’ve been involved in the bid for the 2027 European Robotics Forum (ERF). How did the collaboration with the Zurich Convention Bureau come about?

The European Robotics Forum is a key event that connects researchers and industry players who address how technology can be applied to solve real-world problems. I’ve been part of this ecosystem since 2005, and when the Zurich Convention Bureau approached me for another event, we began discussing how to bring a major robotics conference to Zurich. The ERF felt like a natural fit because of its emphasis on exhibitions, panel discussions, and workshops rather than purely academic presentations.

The collaboration has been transformative. The Convention Bureau’s expertise in hosting large-scale events complements my academic strengths perfectly. They help manage the critical logistical elements—such as securing venues, coordinating hotels, and curating welcoming packages—which allows me to focus on creating a meaningful program.

Events like the ERF are less about delivering academic papers and more about fostering dialogue and showcasing innovations. The Bureau’s professionalism ensures the infrastructure runs smoothly, creating an environment where we can focus on content and impact. Without their support, taking on this bid would have been daunting. They’ve been instrumental in connecting us with professional congress organizers (PCOs) who specialize in events of this magnitude. Their experience with large-scale events gives Zurich an edge in presenting a compelling bid.

What impact do you hope hosting the ERF will have?

Should the bid be successful, the event will elevate ZHAW’s profile in European robotics and strengthen the connections between Switzerland’s robotics ecosystem and its European counterparts. It’s not just about showcasing our research and startups but also about learning from others and fostering collaborations. Robotics inherently requires interdisciplinary teamwork—no single company or lab can create a fully functional robot alone. Events like the ERF enable those vital connections, spurring future projects and innovations.

Finally, why is Zurich a great place to live and work?

For me, Zurich is the perfect balance between a vibrant, global hub and a city that maintains a high quality of life. I often refer to it as the “island of sanity in a sea of madness.” This city is incredibly clean, safe, and efficient. Everything works as it should—trains are on time, systems are reliable, and there’s a sense of mutual respect and professionalism in daily interactions. These qualities create an environment where you can truly focus on your work and personal goals without unnecessary distractions.

Zurich also strikes a unique balance between cosmopolitan energy and access to nature. The city is small enough that you don’t feel overwhelmed, but it’s large enough to offer a rich cultural life, with communities in academia, arts, and music. For someone like me, who values a connection to nature, Zurich’s proximity to the mountains and lakes is a huge draw. You can attend a world-class lecture or event in the morning and be hiking in the Alps by the afternoon.

More info on how Zurich Convention Bureau can help you organize conferences here.