Swiss Academy of Sciences SCNAT
Transdisciplinary research partnerships with business and civil society in the North-South context
This publication analyses opportunities and risks of transdisciplinary research partnerships with business and civil society in the North-South context. Such partnerships are in many cases crucial for impactful research and need to be implemented cautious and strategic. Well implemented partnerships enhance the practical relevance of research and the uptake of results, they provide access to additional data and networks but they also entail the risk of undermining scientific rigour and independence, and they increase the complexity of a research project and power-imbalances. This analysis provides some practical information and orientation for researchers and funding institutions in Switzerland on these opportunities and risks. The publication is the result of a literature review and a stakeholder dialogue with researchers and research-funders.
Alex Gertschen (2021) Transdisciplinary research partnerships with business and civil society in the North-South context. Opportunities and risks for researchers and funding institutions in Switzerland. Swiss Academies Communications 16 (7).
Swiss Young Academy SYA
Compassionate Science - Integrating Empathy and Compassion in Research
This report explores how empathy and compassion shape research practices across disciplines. Drawing on a review of existing literature and illustrative examples from early-career researchers, it shows that empathy and compassion are not abstract ideals but practical dimensions of research that can influence study design, relationships, data interpretation, and knowledge translation. Across fields, integrating these dimensions can strengthen trust, deepen understanding, improve collaboration, and enhance ethical reflexivity.
Swiss Academies of Arts and Sciences a+
STEM 2026: Where Switzerland stands today
Twelve years on from the first STEM Youth Barometer, the new 2026 edition reveals that interest in STEM has remained largely stable, stereotypes persist, and women underestimate their own abilities. At the same time, the findings are more nuanced than expected and point to clear areas for improvement.
Swiss Academy of Sciences SCNAT
Beyond the transaction: commodity trade and sustainable development
This factsheet maps the sustainability links of commodity trade, identifies knowledge gaps, and outlines options for commodity hubs, including Switzerland, to reduce economic, environmental and social sustainability risks.