André Anjos is a Lecturer at the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), affiliated with the School of Engineering (STI) and the Institute of Microengineering (IEM). He is part of the LIDIAP (IDIAP Laboratory), focusing on research and teaching in statistical pattern recognition and machine learning. His course, 'Fundamentals in Statistical Pattern Recognition,' equips PhD students with core methodologies in machine learning and deep learning. He supervises PhD student Özbulak Gökhan. Anjos holds an administrative role within EPFL's VPA-AVP-DLE division, contributing to academic governance. His work bridges theoretical foundations and practical applications in signal processing and biometrics.
Prof. Roland Siegwart is a Full Professor of Autonomous Systems at ETH Zurich's Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering since 2006. He leads the Wyss Zurich Translational Center and previously served as Vice President for Research and Corporate Relations (2010–2014). His academic background includes a Diploma (1983) and PhD (1989) in Mechanical Engineering from ETH Zurich, followed by a decade as a professor at EPFL Lausanne (1996–2006) and visiting roles at Stanford University and NASA Ames. His research focuses on robot systems operating in complex environments, emphasizing adaptive autonomy for applications like aerial robotics, driver assistance, and service robots. He has coordinated EU projects, co-founded multiple spin-offs, and holds IEEE Fellow status. Awards include the IEEE RAS Inaba Technical Award and leadership roles in IFRR and robotics journals. Key contributions span reactive navigation, multi-modal localization (e.g., CompSLAM), and UAV path optimization. His work bridges theoretical robotics with real-world applications like corrosion inspection drones and Mars exploration path planning. Current projects emphasize open-source space systems (ATMOS) and neural radiance fields for perception.
Yang Lin is a doctoral assistant at the AQUA Lab within the School of Engineering at École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL). He works on integrating single-photon avalanche diodes (SPADs) with artificial and spiking neural networks for biological and medical imaging applications, particularly fluorescence lifetime imaging. Ph.D. in Computational and Quantitative Biology (expected 2025), École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne B.Eng. in Automation (2020), Shanghai Jiao Tong University His research focuses on developing intelligent image sensors by combining SPAD technology with neural networks, including ASIC SPAD sensors, FPGA-based processing units, and optical setups for biomedical applications. He is exploring spiking neural networks (SNNs) for energy-efficient, real-time imaging with SPADs. Yang's recent publications highlight advancements in quantum ghost imaging, SPAD sensor integration with neural networks, and fluorescence lifetime imaging. He has presented at conferences like WACV 2024 and received recognition for his work at BMPN 2022. Best Talk of a Young Researcher, BMPN 2022 He designs hardware-software co-systems for biomedical imaging and is open to research or engineering roles post-2025.
Prof. Markus Strobl is a Professor at the Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI) within the Laboratory for Neutron Scattering and Imaging , part of the Center for Neutron and Muon Sciences . His research focuses on advanced neutron-based characterization techniques, including neutron imaging, diffraction, and tomography, applied to materials science challenges in additive manufacturing, battery technology, and corrosion analysis. He leads efforts in developing novel experimental setups for in-situ studies of material behavior under extreme conditions. Key research areas include: Neutron dark-field imaging for nanostructure analysis Crystallographic texture manipulation in metals via additive manufacturing Operando studies of electrochemical systems (batteries, fuel cells) Characterization of microstructural evolution in laser powder bed fusion materials Recent work highlights the application of neutron techniques to study phase evolution in graphite electrodes, hydrogen transport in Ni-MH batteries, and corrosion mechanisms in concrete-reinforced steel. His group has pioneered advancements in neutron imaging instrumentation, including the FALCON diffractometer add-on and event-mode data acquisition systems. Scientific recognition includes the Energy Technology Division Graduate Student Award (2024). His lab actively collaborates on international projects like the HighNESS neutron source development at the European Spallation Source (ESS).
Robert Riener is a Full Professor at the Department of Health Sciences and Technology (D-HEST), ETH Zurich, and holds a professorship in medicine at the Balgrist University Hospital (University of Zurich). His academic journey includes a Dipl.-Ing. and Dr. degree from TU München (1993, 1997), followed by postdoctoral work at Politecnico di Milano and habilitation in Biomechatronics. He has led D-HEST (2016–2018) and pioneered robots for rehabilitation and sports. His research focuses on human biomechanics, virtual reality, sleep robotics, and rehabilitation robotics, with over 500 publications and patents. Riener initiated the Cybathlon, a championship for athletes using assistive technology, recognized with multiple awards including the European Excellence Award and IEEE RAS/EMBS Key Innovator Award. His education includes studies at TU München and the University of Maryland, followed by a career at ETH Zurich since 2003. Riener’s work bridges engineering and medicine, addressing neuroprosthetics, robotic rehabilitation systems (e.g., ARMin), and sleep-related robotics. Awards include the Swiss Technology Award, humanTech Innovation Prize, and AAAS Leshner Fellowship. His current projects involve robotic beds for sleep disorders, wearable exosuits, and gait assistance technologies. Key research trends in his articles include advancements in robotic control systems, wearable exoskeletons, and data-driven approaches to rehabilitation. His work emphasizes clinical validation and adaptive human-robot interfaces. Riener’s contributions span from fundamental biomechanical studies to large-scale implementations like Cybathlon, reflecting interdisciplinary innovation. Notable awards include the euRobotics Technology Transfer Awards (2011, 2012, 2021), IEEE Best Paper Awards, and an honorary doctorate from the University of Basel. His grants and collaborations involve EU-funded projects and industry partnerships. Riener heads labs focused on rehabilitation robotics, biomechanics, and sleep technology, fostering international collaborations and translating research into clinical applications.
Rodolphe Schlaepfer is an Honorary Professor at the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), affiliated with the School of Architecture, Civil and Environmental Engineering (ENAC). He holds the academic rank of Professor and has been associated with EPFL since 1997 as a Professor and Director of Ecosystem Management. His career includes leadership roles at the Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research (WSL) and the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich (ETHZ). Joined EPFL in 1997 as Professor and Director of Ecosystem Management Previously held roles as Director of WSL (1987-1996) and Professor of Forest Science at ETHZ (1982-1987) Formerly a Research Scientist at the Swiss Federal Institute for Forest Research (1967-1976) Professional Highlights : President of the Swiss Biometrical Society Board member of IUFRO (International Union of Forest Research Organizations) Editor for Europe of the Journal Urban and Landscape Planning President of the Lemanic Forest Forum Research Interests : Focus on sustainable forestry, ecosystem management, biodiversity conservation, and climate change impacts. Key areas include forest inventory, landscape ecology, and participatory environmental governance. His work integrates quantitative methods (e.g., GIS, remote sensing) and stakeholder engagement in environmental projects. Recent studies explore topics like snow-farming impacts on alpine ecosystems and climate-driven shifts in tree phenology. Publications & Advocacy : Over 100 peer-reviewed articles and theses supervised, with contributions to journals like Global Change Biology and Science of the Total Environment . Advocated for deadwood conservation, sustainable floodplain management, and participatory landscape planning frameworks. Awards & Recognition : While no explicit awards are listed, his leadership roles in international organizations (IUFRO) and sustained academic contributions reflect significant recognition in forest science and environmental policy. Advising & Grants : Supervised over 100 master’s and PhD students in forest management, ecology, and landscape studies. His research has addressed critical issues like forest fire prevention in Ticino (Switzerland) and biodiversity hotspots in Madagascar. Labs & Teams : Active within EPFL’s ENAC-DEC department and collaborates with institutions like WSL and international groups on projects spanning forest ecology, climate adaptation, and environmental systems analysis.
Junrui Chen is a Researcher and Doctoral Assistant at the Integrated Systems Laboratory (LSI1) within the School of Engineering (STI) at EPFL. He is affiliated with the Bio/CMOS Interfaces Laboratory and the SCI-STI-SC group. His research focuses on biomedical engineering, microfluidics, and biosensor technologies, particularly in in-memory sensing using bio/nano technologies under the supervision of Prof. Sandro Carrara. Education: BSc in Mechanical and Automation Engineering from Beihang University (2017), MSc in Mechatronics and Information Technology from Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (2021). His master's work involved microfluidic channel design for biosensors and ECG/PLT signal detection using MATLAB and LabVIEW. Research interests include microsystem design, biomedical signal processing, and microfabrication techniques. He contributes to projects like in-memory sensing and has developed skills in image processing and biosignal analysis, as evidenced by his GitLab repositories. Labs/Affiliations: EPFL's Integrated Systems Laboratory (LSI1) and Bio/CMOS Interfaces Lab (https://www.epfl.ch/labs/bci/). Office location: MC A3 197, Neuchâtel.
Stefano Mischler is a Senior Scientist at École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), affiliated with the School of Engineering (STI) and the Department of Materials Science and Engineering. He leads the Tribology Group and focuses on tribocorrosion, surface science, and biomedical materials. His work integrates chemical and mechanical degradation mechanisms in materials under sliding contact conditions. Education: Diploma in Materials Science, ETH Zurich (1983) PhD in Surface Analysis and Corrosion, EPFL Lausanne (1988) Research: Dr. Mischler specializes in tribocorrosion of biomedical alloys, wear-corrosion interactions, and surface engineering. Key areas include biotribology, microfabrication tribology, and tribological coatings. His work bridges lab-scale experiments with in vivo applications, particularly in hip implants and space materials. Publications: Recent work emphasizes tribocorrosion modeling, implant degradation, and historical material analysis. The 2025 papers highlight advancements in understanding microbial corrosion in radioactive waste and tribocorrosion mechanisms in biomedical alloys. Awards: None explicitly listed. Advising & Grants: Current PhD students include Heidi Bénier Calixe and Ayush Khurana. Past advisees have contributed to 30+ publications. He chairs the EDMX PhD program in Materials Science and collaborates across EPFL's STI and VPA departments. Labs/Teams: Heads EPFL's Tribology Group, coordinating research in surface interactions, corrosion, and materials durability. Collaborates on interdisciplinary projects involving biomedical engineering, aerospace materials, and cultural heritage preservation.
Alberto Bacchelli is an Associate Professor of Empirical Software Engineering at the University of Zurich (UZH), leading the Zurich Empirical Software Engineering Team (ZEST). He joined UZH in 2017, having previously worked as an Assistant Professor at Delft University of Technology (Netherlands), where he earned tenure. His research focuses on improving software quality, developer effectiveness, and code review practices through empirical studies and tool development. Bacchelli holds a PhD from the University of Lugano, with internships at Microsoft Research. He has received prestigious awards, including the MSR Ric Holt Early Career Achievement Award (2020) and the 10-year Most Influential Paper Award from SANER. His work spans code review efficiency, software security, and developer tools. In his personal life, he balances family time with a passion for photography, particularly through his sister Chiara’s wedding photography work. Affiliations: University of Zurich (since 2017), Delft University of Technology (2013–2017), Microsoft Research (internships 2012–2013). Education: PhD in Computer Science (University of Lugano, 2013), Master/BS in Computer Science (University of Bologna), studies at Université Libre de Bruxelles. His research interests center on understanding software engineering challenges and designing tools/methods to enhance practices. Notable projects include studies on code review strategies, developer cognition, and security in collaborative environments. He emphasizes bridging theory and practice, aiming for real-world impact through tools like PyDriller and frameworks for mining software repositories. Awards highlight his contributions to code review and software engineering education. He actively engages in teaching, mentoring, and advancing open-source practices. His team, ZEST, explores topics such as code review dynamics, developer productivity, and empirical methods to improve software processes.
Mirko Birbaumer is a Professor at the Lucerne School of Engineering and Architecture (HSLU), specializing in data science and machine learning applications. He holds a PhD in computer-assisted image analysis from ETH Zurich and has completed advanced executive education at MIT in Innovation and Strategy. PhD in Systems Biology (ETH Zurich, 2010) Executive Certificate in Innovation and Strategy (MIT, 2022) Advanced Executive Certificate in Innovation, Strategy, and Technology (MIT, 2024) His research integrates statistical data analysis , computer vision , and digital health , with applications spanning industrial quality control, medical imaging, and environmental monitoring. Recent work focuses on physics-informed neural networks, interpretable anomaly detection, and causal machine learning. His projects include AI-driven solutions for medical diagnostics, predictive maintenance in manufacturing, and environmental anomaly detection. He has supervised over 20 student theses on topics like deep learning for knee osteoarthritis detection, monocular depth estimation, and AI-assisted logo similarity analysis. He leads the Data Science profile in the Master of Science and Engineering program and teaches courses on deep learning, Bayesian machine learning, and computer vision. His methodological expertise includes agent-based modeling, statistical analysis, and explainable AI.
Prof. Fabian Ille is a Professor and Head of the Competence Center for Bioscience and Medical Engineering at Lucerne School of Engineering and Architecture (HSLU). He leads interdisciplinary research in biomedical engineering, space biology, and regenerative medicine. His academic background includes a Master's in Cell Biology from Heidelberg University and a PhD in Neuronal Stem Cell Biology from ETH Zurich, followed by postdoctoral work in the Space Biology Group. He combines clinical, computational, and engineering approaches to address challenges in musculoskeletal disorders and fertility treatments. Education: PhD in Neuronal Stem Cell Biology, ETH Zurich (Neuroscience Center Zurich) Master's in Cell Biology, University of Heidelberg Research Focus: Intervertebral disc and joint repair mechanisms under microgravity conditions Development of medical software solutions (CDSS, SaMD) for musculoskeletal and reproductive disorders Biomedical applications of microgravity research including space bioreactors and tissue engineering Data-driven approaches in fertility treatments and clinical decision support systems Key Projects: Space Bioreactor Development SORTHOdisc: Stem cell sorting technology for disc therapy PAEON Virtual Hospital System COSMOS Data Cockpit for personalized medicine Technical Contributions: Medical device testing methodologies (e.g., phacoemulsification instruments) Multi-omics analysis frameworks for space biology experiments AI-driven ERP data mining for service shop optimization Laboratory Infrastructure: Leads the Institute of Medical Engineering with specialized facilities for cell culture under microgravity simulation, electrophysiology labs, and biomedical software development hubs.
Pooja Rani is a Senior Researcher at the Software Evolution and Architecture Lab (SEAL), Department of Informatics, University of Zurich. She holds a PhD from the University of Bern (2022) and an M.E. in Software Systems from BITS Pilani (2017). With industry experience at Samsung, VMware, and People Interactive Ltd., she bridges theoretical and practical software engineering. Her research focuses on: Empirical Software Engineering, particularly developer practices in code comprehension and maintenance. Green Software Engineering, including energy anti-patterns and sustainability tooling. NLP and machine learning applications in software evolution, documentation quality, and polyglot environments. AI-driven approaches for debugging, testing, and optimization. Her publications emphasize energy efficiency in software systems, AI-assisted development tools, code comment analysis, and metamorphic testing. Recent work explores LLMs for sustainable coding, object-centric debugging, and autonomous system validation. She actively advises students, with ongoing supervision of 15+ BSc/MSc theses on topics like comment quality, energy anti-patterns, and polyglot development. She collaborates internationally with institutions including TU Delft, Inria, and the University of Victoria.
Firouzeh Ebadi Garjan is a Researcher at the ZHAW School of Engineering , Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW), within the Research Focus Organic Electronics & Photovoltaics . Her work focuses on advancing opto-electronic-ionic devices, particularly perovskite solar cells, addressing challenges in material characterization, defect engineering, and device performance optimization. Her research interests include perovskite photovoltaics , ion conductivity in solar cells , tail state effects , and operando characterization techniques . She contributes to projects like Defect Engineering, Advanced Modelling and Characterization for Next Generation Opto-Electronic-Ionic Devices as a team member. Recent publications highlight her work on temperature-dependent photovoltaic efficiency, ion conductivity under illumination, and commercialization challenges of perovskite materials. She actively presents at conferences such as the European Photovoltaic Solar Energy Conference and the International Conference on Simulation of Organic Electronics and Photovoltaics (SimOEP). No scientific awards or grants are explicitly listed, though her contributions to high-impact journals like Advanced Energy Materials and Journal of Materials Chemistry A reflect her research impact.
Dr. Pascal Edme is a Senior Scientist at the Swiss Seismological Service (SED), part of ETH Zürich. His research focuses on advanced seismic monitoring technologies, particularly Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS), applied to glaciology, slope instability, and avalanche dynamics. He leads projects leveraging telecommunication infrastructure for environmental hazard detection and collaborates internationally on geophysical challenges like Martian soil analysis via the InSight mission. His work emphasizes automation, machine learning integration, and high-resolution subsurface imaging. Affiliations: Swiss Seismological Service (SED), ETH Zürich Key Technologies: DAS, Unsupervised Clustering, Semi-Supervised Learning, 3D Seismic Tomography Research interests span cryoseismology, near-surface geophysical characterization, and the development of robust geophysical instruments. Notable contributions include avalanche detection frameworks, slope failure monitoring systems, and high-fidelity seismic source inversion techniques. His studies often bridge field deployments with computational advancements, addressing both Earth and planetary science challenges. Publications highlight innovative applications of DAS across diverse contexts—from monitoring Alpine glaciers to analyzing Mars' subsurface. Collaborations with institutions like BedrettoLab and the Geo-INQUIRE project underscore his commitment to standardizing geophysical data practices and fostering interdisciplinary research.
Mathieu Soutrenon is an Associate Professor at HES-SO Valais-Wallis - School of Engineering, affiliated with the Institut Systèmes industriels. His work focuses on additive manufacturing, inkjet technology, catalysis, and sustainable materials. He leads and collaborates on projects addressing CO2 conversion, biomass waste valorization, and advanced materials for energy applications. Current projects include developing non-noble metal catalysts for CO2 reduction (RIP process) and a Moroccan-Swiss initiative on biochar production from biomass. Research interests span reactive inkjet printing, functional materials synthesis, and scalable manufacturing processes. He has contributed to over a dozen peer-reviewed publications since 2018, with recent work on electrocatalysts for fuel cells, CO2 adsorption using MOFs, and photo-pyrolysis of waste tires. His projects often involve interdisciplinary collaboration with academic institutions like EPFL and industrial partners. Key Projects: Leading House MENA (2025-2027), Reactive Inkjet Printing (2024-2025), TexUp recycled acoustic panels (2023-2024) Skills: Additive manufacturing, rheology, design for manufacturing, catalysis Lab Affiliations: iPrint Institute (HEIA-FR), Industrial Systems Institute (HEI-VS)
