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Swiss Academy of Medical Sciences SAMS
Neuroscience: Robert Bing Prize for two outstanding researchers
The Robert Bing Prize 2026 is awarded to two outstanding neuroscientists: Eduardo Martin Moraud, assistant professor at EPFL, is being distinguished for his translational research on movement disorders, notably in relation to Parkinson’s disease. Aiman S. Saab, professor at the University of Zurich, is honored for his fundamental contributions to understanding how glial cells help maintain neuronal and brain function. Each prize is worth 30’000 francs.
Swiss Young Academy SYA
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Introducing Compassionate Science: how empathy and compassion are reshaping research
Scientific research traditionally relies on objectivity, methodological rigor, and measurable outputs. Yet a growing body of scholarship recognises that these values need not come at the expense of relationships, ethical responsibility, and attentiveness to the people and communities that research aims to serve. “Compassionate Science” was developed to address this gap, and to encourage reflection on how compassion can be meaningfully embedded in research practice, whatever the discipline. We are delighted to announce the publication of our “Compassionate Science” report and the corresponding interview series, exploring how empathy and compassion shape research practice across disciplines.
Swiss Academy of Engineering Sciences SATW
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‘Space technology should improve life on Earth’ – Barbara Frei-Spreiter on the Swiss space programme, caught between the global market and security policy
Since April 2026, Dr Barbara Frei-Spreiter has been at the helm of Beyond Gravity, the largest Swiss aerospace supplier operating internationally, with 12 sites across six countries. She is taking the helm of this federally-owned company at a time of two major turning points: in 2025, Parliament decided to retain control with the federal government; space has been Switzerland’s official military domain of operations since October 2025; and, following a year of losses, the group is in the midst of a turnaround. In an interview with the SATW, Beyond Gravity’s new CEO explains why dependence is Switzerland’s greatest vulnerability, where she draws the line between commercial business and security considerations, and why a country without its own rocket can still be a leading player in the space sector.Swiss Academy of Engineering Sciences SATW
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How generative AI is changing work and skills
Generative AI is transforming the world of work – not so much by replacing entire professions, but by reshaping tasks, roles and skill sets. It is therefore becoming increasingly important for businesses to combine technological skills with specialist knowledge and human capabilities.