Gregor Burkhard

Prof. Dr. Gregor Burkhard is a Professor at the University of Applied Sciences Northwestern Switzerland (FHNW), where he serves as Head of the Master of Science in Engineering (MSE) program and leads the Mechanical Engineering profile. He is affiliated with the School of Engineering and the Environment and teaches manufacturing processes at the Institute for Product and Production Engineering. His PhD dissertation at ETH Zurich (2001) focused on optimizing single-layer abrasive tools.

His research encompasses:

• Advanced manufacturing techniques including forming technology and machine elements
• Material- and production-friendly design principles
• Automated assembly systems (Design For Automated Assembly)
• Precision tooling and surface engineering applications

His publications emphasize abrasive machining innovations, material science applications in manufacturing, and precision engineering solutions. Recent work explores shape memory alloys for microassembly and optimized abrasive tool configurations.

Significant recognition includes:

• Ypsomed Innovation Award 2016 (First Prize, CHF 30,000) for developing satellite construction technology

He led the EU-funded EUPASS project (2004-2010) on ultra-precision assembly systems and holds four patents in lightweight structures and abrasive tool manufacturing.