Jonas Brüngger

Dr. Jonas Brüngger is a Research Associate at the Institute of Humans in Complex Systems within the School of Applied Psychology at the University of Applied Sciences Northwestern Switzerland (FHNW). His work focuses on the intersection of human factors, safety, and technology in complex operational environments, particularly in railway systems.

Dr. Brüngger's educational background includes:

• Doctorate in Natural Sciences (Dr. rer. nat.) from Technical University of Berlin (2015-2021) on the topic of "Monotony in train traffic control"
• Master of Science in Applied Psychology from FHNW Olten (2009-2012) with a focus on Work, Organizational and Personnel Psychology
• Bachelor of Science in Applied Psychology from FHNW Olten (2006-2009) with a focus on Work, Organizational and Personnel Psychology
• Technical Vocational Matura from Commercial-Industrial Vocational School Bern gibb (2004-2005)
• Apprenticeship as a polymechanic at Haag-Streit AG (2000-2004)

Dr. Brüngger's research spans multiple dimensions of human-system interaction in safety-critical environments. His work examines how organizational structures, technological systems, and human factors converge to influence safety outcomes, particularly in transportation contexts. A significant portion of his research investigates the psychological aspects of monotony and vigilance in train traffic control, exploring how task characteristics affect operator performance and safety. His studies often take a systems approach, considering how regulations, operational requirements, and organizational culture interact to shape safety practices. Dr. Brüngger has made notable contributions to understanding safety-related leadership, examining how managerial behaviors influence safety culture and compliance with regulations. His research on the "gray areas" of safety violations provides valuable insights into why safety rules are sometimes bypassed and how organizations can address these issues constructively.

Analysis of Dr. Brüngger's recent publications reveals a consistent focus on safety management within railway operations, with an increasing emphasis on digital transformation and its implications for human factors. His work demonstrates a progression from examining specific operational challenges (like monotony in traffic control) to broader systemic issues involving regulatory frameworks, organizational culture, and technological change. A common thread throughout his research is the examination of mismatches between formal regulations and actual operational requirements, and how these gaps affect safety outcomes. His more recent work has expanded to consider how digitalization and personalized prevention services might transform safety management practices while introducing new challenges related to privacy and user experience.

Dr. Brüngger's research has been supported by collaborations with the Federal Office of Transport (BAV) in Switzerland, indicating recognition of the practical relevance of his work to transportation safety regulation. His publications frequently address the practical implementation of safety measures in real-world operational contexts, suggesting a strong applied focus to his research agenda.

As a member of the Institute of Humans in Complex Systems, Dr. Brüngger contributes to a research environment focused on understanding and optimizing the interaction between people, technology, and organizations in increasingly automated and networked environments. The institute's work addresses both the opportunities and challenges presented by digital transformation across various sectors.