Prof. Ioannis Anastasopoulos is a Full Professor and Head of the Department of Civil, Environmental and Geomatic Engineering at ETH Zurich. He leads the Chair of Geotechnical Engineering, focusing on advanced geotechnical modeling, seismic resilience, and infrastructure systems. His research integrates experimental and numerical methods to address challenges in tunnel engineering, offshore foundations, and seismic protection. Key research areas include seismic response of geotechnical structures, soil-structure interaction, metamaterial-based vibration mitigation, and innovative foundation technologies. He directs the Geotechnical Centrifuge Center and Soil Testing Laboratories at ETH Zurich, advancing physical modeling and material characterization. Recent work emphasizes earthquake engineering applications, including fault rupture interactions with tunnels, pile group dynamics under combined loading, and hybrid modeling of scour effects on bridge foundations. His contributions span geotechnical design methodologies, nuclear facility safety, and additive manufacturing for masonry structures. Prof. Anastasopoulos collaborates internationally on projects like the GEOLAB initiative, advancing Europe's geotechnical physical modeling infrastructure. His teaching includes courses on geotechnical design and theoretical soil mechanics, bridging academic research with practical engineering solutions.
Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in LausanneSwitzerland
Farhad Rachidi is a Full Professor at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (EPFL), where he serves as the Head of the Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Laboratory within the School of Engineering's Department of Electrical Engineering. His research group has been active in EMC research since the early 1980s and maintains collaborations with numerous international institutions including Universities of Bologna and Rome (Italy), Uppsala University and KTH (Sweden), University of Toronto (Canada), University of Florida (USA), and others. Professor Rachidi's research spans electromagnetic compatibility, lightning electromagnetics, lightning and EMP interaction with transmission lines, electromagnetic time reversal, fault location, numerical computation of electromagnetic fields, and power line communications. His work integrates theoretical modeling with experimental validation, particularly in the context of lightning phenomena and electromagnetic interference. The research group develops innovative techniques such as electromagnetic time reversal for applications ranging from lightning detection to partial discharge localization in power systems. Analysis of his recent publications (2023-2025) reveals a strong focus on electromagnetic time reversal techniques, lightning physics and modeling, machine learning applications in electromagnetic phenomena, and advanced computational methods for electromagnetic field analysis. His work bridges fundamental electromagnetic theory with practical applications in power systems, atmospheric electricity, and security technologies. 2025 IEEE EMC Technical Achievement Award 2005 CIGRE Technical Committee Award 2006 Blondel Medal from SEE 2016 Berger Award from ICLP Best Paper Awards of IEEE Transactions on EMC (2016, 2018) Motohisa Kanda Award for most cited papers (2012-2018) 2024 Distinguished Honorary Professor at Tsinghua University 2014 Honorary Professor at Xi'an Jiaotong University Professor Rachidi has supervised numerous students through semester projects, diploma projects (equivalent to MS), and PhD programs at EPFL. His research is primarily sponsored by Swiss National Science Foundation, European Community programs, European Space Agency, Swiss Electrical Utilities, and private companies. He has served in leadership roles including President of the International Conference on Lightning Protection (2008-2014), Editor-in-Chief of IEEE Transactions on Electromagnetic Compatibility (2013-2015), and President of the Swiss National Committee of the International Union of Radio Science (2012-2020). The EMC Laboratory at EPFL, which he heads, maintains the Säntis lightning research facility and has been instrumental in advancing our understanding of lightning phenomena through direct measurements at instrumented towers. The group has developed innovative techniques including electromagnetic time reversal for fault location in power networks and lightning detection systems.
Prof. Harald Bugmann is a Full Professor of Forest Ecology at ETH Zurich's Department of Environmental Systems Science. He previously held roles as Assistant Professor (1999–2004) and Extraordinary Professor of Forest Ecology. His research focuses on long-term dynamics of forest ecosystems under environmental change, particularly in mountain forests and disturbance regimes like wildfires. He contributed to the IPCC and led projects under the IGBP's Global Change and Terrestrial Ecosystems (GCTE) and Mountain Research Initiative (MRI). Education: PhD in Terrestrial Ecology from ETH Zurich (1994), M.Sc. in Limnology, and studies in Systematics/Ecological Biology. Awards include the ETH Medal for his PhD and MSc theses, and the Swiss Limnology-Hydrobiology Award (1990). Research Interests: Climate change impacts, forest resilience, and ecological modeling. Key contributions include studies on drought-driven tree mortality, nitrogen's role in soil carbon dynamics, and participatory scenario processes for climate adaptation. Awards: ETH Medal for PhD thesis (1994) Swiss Limnology-Hydrobiology Award (1990) ETH Medal for MSc thesis (1989) Grants & Projects: Leads the MainWood project on sustainable forest use and collaborates on initiatives like the Forest Ecology Group (FE.ETHZ.CH). Labs/Teams: Director of the Forest Ecology Group at ETH Zurich, involved in the Zurich Forest Lab (Waldlabor Zürich) for applied research and knowledge transfer.
Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in LausanneSwitzerland
Alexandra Kroll is a Researcher at the Ecotox Center (Eawag) since 2019, specializing in Environmental Risk Assessment and Ecotoxicology . Her work focuses on micropollutants, nanoparticles, microplastics, and pesticides in aquatic systems, with a particular emphasis on regulatory frameworks and chemical safety. PhD in Nanotoxicology (University Hospital Münster, 2006-2009) Postdoctoral research at Eawag (2010-2016) Her research interests span environmental risk assessment of pharmaceuticals, nanoparticle interactions with biofilms, microplastic effects on freshwater organisms, and pesticide regulation. Recent projects include evaluating UV-filters in Swiss lakes and deriving environmental quality standards. Key scientific contributions involve flow cytometry for biofilm analysis , pH-specific aquatic thresholds , and landscape-based ERA frameworks . She has been recognized with the SNSF Ambizione Fellowship (2010-2016) for her nanotoxicology research.
Monika Maurhofer is a Professor at the Department of Environmental Systems Science, ETH Zurich , specializing in multitrophic interactions within the rhizosphere. Her research bridges plant pathology, microbial ecology, and biological control of plant diseases and insect pests. 1988: Dipl. sc. nat., ETH Zurich 1993: Dr. sc. nat., ETH Zurich Research focuses on biocontrol pseudomonads and their molecular interactions with plants, fungi, and insects. Key projects include: Understanding Pseudomonas protegens mechanisms in rhizosphere colonization Comparative genomics of entomopathogenic bacteria Developing disease-suppressive compost diagnostics Investigating microbial consortia for pest control 2024-2025 publications highlight her work on entomopathogenic pseudomonads and nematode-bacteria symbiosis , with applications in sustainable agriculture. She received the Golden Owl Award for teaching excellence in 2014 and 2017. Current collaborations include Syngenta Crop Protection and interdisciplinary teams at University of Zurich and University of Basel.
Serge Stoll is a Senior Lecturer in Analytical, Environmental Physical Chemistry, and Soft Matter Science at the Department F.-A. Forel for Environmental and Aquatic Sciences, University of Geneva. He teaches colloid and polymer chemistry, environmental chemistry, and water quality courses at both undergraduate and graduate levels, including within the Master of Environmental Sciences program. Research Interests: His research focuses on understanding the fate, transport, aggregation, and sedimentation of colloids, biopolymers, and manufactured nanoparticles in aquatic environments. He employs both experimental techniques and advanced computational modeling (Monte Carlo, molecular dynamics) to link molecular-scale processes with macroscopic environmental behavior. Key areas include microplastics, nanoparticle toxicity, and applications in water treatment technologies. The recent publications highlight a strong trend in environmental nanotechnology, particularly the behavior of microplastics and engineered nanoparticles in urban water cycles and drinking water systems. The work spans from fundamental soft matter simulations to applied wastewater and drinking water treatment, often involving interdisciplinary collaborations and European research projects like NanoFASE and NanoMILE. Scientific Awards and Recognition: Represented Switzerland at the CERC3 Workshop on Colloidal Synthesis and Characterization, Bristol, UK Member of the selection committee for the Institut Universitaire de France Co-editor of the Journal of Colloid Science and Biotechnology Advising and Grants: Serge Stoll has supervised approximately 10 PhD theses, including recent graduates A.D.J. Negrete Velasco and G.J. Hul. His research is supported by the Swiss National Research Foundation and through participation in large-scale European projects such as NanoFASE and NanoMILE, indicating sustained funding and international collaboration. Laboratories and Research Teams: His group operates within the Institute of Environmental Sciences (ISE) at the University of Geneva and collaborates extensively with European and international research groups. The team combines experimental and computational approaches to study colloidal systems in environmental contexts, contributing to both fundamental science and practical water treatment solutions.
Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in LausanneSwitzerland
Dr. Etienne Vermeirssen is a Senior Scientist and Group Leader at the Ecotox Centre since 2011, affiliated with Eawag (Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology) and EPFL (École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne). His work focuses on aquatic, sediment, and soil ecotoxicology, with expertise in biotests, passive sampling, and the physiological effects of hormonally active substances. Education: PhD in Biological Sciences from the University of East Anglia, UK (1995), postdoctoral research at CEFAS (UK) and Max Planck Institute (Germany). Research Interests: Hormonally active substances, mixture toxicity, passive sampling techniques, and environmental risk assessment of micropollutants. Publications: His research spans 2006–2025, emphasizing endocrine disruptors, tire particle toxicity, wastewater treatment impacts, and passive sampler applications. Key trends include integrating bioassays with chemical analysis and studying estrogenic activity in aquatic systems. Scientific Contributions: Developed methods for bioassay-guided chemical analysis, assessed tire particle bioaccessibility, and evaluated passive sampling systems for environmental monitoring. Advising: Supervised doctoral research by Mechelke, J. and contributed to numerous interdisciplinary projects. Labs/Teams: Leads the aquatic ecotoxicology group at Ecotox Centre, collaborating with institutions like EPFL, Eawag, and international partners.
Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW)Switzerland
Prof. Dr. Rolf Krebs serves as Head of the Institute of Natural Resource Sciences at Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW) School of Life Sciences and Facility Management. His institutional affiliation includes leadership over soil and water research teams, with a current advisory role at Lucky Shrimp AG (2022-2026). Previously, he directed soil protection for Canton St. Gallen (1998-2002) and led inorganic chemistry in water/soil protection at Canton Bern (2002-2005), establishing his expertise in environmental management across Swiss cantonal and academic sectors. His educational foundation includes a PhD in Environmental Sciences (1992-1996) and Dipl.nat. ETH in Environmental Sciences (1987-1992), both from ETH Zurich. Professional development is evidenced by ZHAW certifications: CAS Management for Leaders (2016) and CAS Leadership advanced (2015), reflecting administrative specialization beyond core environmental science training. Research centers on hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) for sewage sludge valorization, with emphasis on phosphorus recovery , pathogen removal , and energy-efficient waste treatment . Complementary work explores heavy metal behavior in soils, alpine environmental processes , and soil formation dynamics over geological timescales. His HTC innovations bridge waste management with agricultural resource recovery, targeting circular economy solutions. Article trends reveal a strategic pivot toward sustainable sanitation since 2013: 10 of 15 recent publications focus on HTC applications for sewage sludge, waste whey, and fecal treatment. Key journals include Energies and Applied Sciences , highlighting interdisciplinary work combining chemical engineering, soil science, and public health. Earlier studies (2012-2010) established his legacy in heavy metal contamination and alpine soil evolution. No scientific awards, fellowships, or medals are documented in the provided text. As institute head, Krebs leads research teams but no advisees are explicitly named. His project involvement (e.g., hydrothermal carbonization for fecal waste treatment) implies grant management, though specific funding sources aren't cited. The Lucky Shrimp AG advisory role indicates industry collaboration beyond academia. The Institute of Natural Resource Sciences houses laboratories for soil chemistry, water analysis, and waste processing. His hydrothermal carbonization research utilizes industrial-scale test reactors, while historical work involved cantonal environmental monitoring teams in Bern and St. Gallen for soil protection and water quality assessment.
Dr. Sara Cazzaniga is a Researcher in the Department of Environmental Systems Science at ETH Zurich, affiliated with the Professorship for Global Ecosystem Ecology. Her work focuses on soil ecology, microbial interactions in agroecosystems, and the role of cover crops in enhancing soil health and suppressing pests. She investigates how plant-based manipulations influence soil microbiota and nematode communities to promote sustainable agricultural practices. Her research interests include soil microbiology, plant-microbe interactions, and the application of molecular tools like SSU rRNA sequencing to monitor soil communities. She has conducted field experiments across multiple locations to assess cover crop impacts on soil biodiversity and crop growth. Recent studies highlight her exploration of nematode antagonists' steerability via cover crops and the legacy effects of cover crops on microbial communities. While no scientific awards are listed, her contributions to understanding belowground ecosystems are significant. She collaborates within the Global Ecosystem Ecology team at ETH Zurich and has published widely on topics like microbiome steering and sustainable agroecology.
Antoine Guisan is a Professor in the Department of Ecology and Evolution at the University of Lausanne, leading the Guisan Group within the Institute of Earth Surface Dynamics. His work focuses on species distribution modeling (SDMs), climate change ecology, and biodiversity conservation, particularly in alpine and tropical ecosystems. He collaborates extensively on mechanistic niche models, invasive species dynamics, and nature's contributions to people (NCPs). Affiliation: Department of Ecology and Evolution, Faculty of Geosciences and Environment, University of Lausanne Research Themes: Species distribution modeling, niche truncation, climate change impacts, microbial biogeography, conservation prioritization His recent publications emphasize spatially nested SDMs, glacier retreat effects on functional diversity, and invasive species modeling. Awards and part-time status are not mentioned. Students include Bart Steen, Mathieu Knight, and Antoine Adde.
Prof. Dr. Matthias Erb is the Head of the Biotic Interactions Section and co-director at the Institute of Plant Sciences, University of Bern. His research focuses on plant defense mechanisms, plant-microbe interactions, and ecological interactions between plants, herbivores, and their natural enemies. Key areas include plant volatile signaling, biocontrol strategies using entomopathogenic nematodes, and the role of specialized metabolites in shaping rhizosphere microbiota. Research Themes: Plant defense against herbivores, microbial symbiosis, plant communication via volatiles, and agricultural applications of ecological strategies. Key Projects: Engineering bacterial symbionts for pest control, understanding plant-soil feedback mechanisms, and elucidating the metabolic basis of plant resistance. His work bridges fundamental ecology with applied agronomy, addressing challenges in sustainable crop protection and soil health. Recent studies highlight the importance of plant secondary metabolites in mediating interactions across trophic levels.
Dr. Charles Nwokoro is a Professor in the Sustainable Agroecosystems Professorship at ETH Zürich. His research focuses on agroecology, sustainable agriculture, and food security, with a particular emphasis on tropical crop systems and urban food dynamics. He leads initiatives such as the Nutrition in City Ecosystems (NICE) project, aiming to enhance food security in secondary cities through multi-sectoral approaches. His work integrates digital tools, intercropping strategies, and socioeconomic analyses to address challenges in crop productivity and nutrition access. Key research areas include cassava-maize intercropping systems, biological weed control, and the adoption of improved agricultural technologies by smallholder farmers. He explores how digital innovations can transform urban food production and distribution. His projects often involve collaborative frameworks across institutions in Africa and Asia. Selected publications highlight his contributions to understanding crop performance, pest management, and the socio-economic determinants of food practices in marginalized communities. While no specific grants or awards are listed, his work aligns with global efforts to achieve sustainable development goals in agriculture and nutrition.
Dr. Patricia Sanches is a Lecturer in the Department of Environmental Systems Science at ETH Zurich, Switzerland. Her research focuses on ecological interactions, particularly plant responses to herbivory, microbial symbiosis effects, and pest management strategies. She investigates how plants utilize defensive volatiles and chemical signals to combat herbivores and pathogens, with applications in sustainable agriculture and biodiversity conservation. Her work bridges entomology, microbiology, and plant physiology, addressing topics such as aphid-plant symbiosis, parasitoid attraction mechanisms, and fungal-viral synergies in plant stress responses. Recent studies include the modulation of virus effects on aphid-plant interactions and the role of jasmonic acid in sugarcane pest resistance. Dr. Sanches collaborates on projects involving beneficial rhizobacteria for root pest resistance and large-scale rearing of fruit fly species for biological control. Her research highlights the complexity of trophic interactions and the potential for ecological solutions in crop protection.
University of Applied Sciences and Arts LucerneSwitzerland
André Arnold is a Professor at the Lucerne School of Engineering and Architecture (HSLU), leading the Institute of Civil Engineering IBI CC. His expertise spans geotechnical engineering, soil mechanics, and sustainable infrastructure. He holds a Diplom (2005) and PhD (2011) from ETH Zurich. His research focuses on foundation engineering, soil-structure interaction, and innovative construction techniques for challenging environments like artificial coral reefs and railway infrastructure. He has supervised numerous Master’s theses and led projects such as SG4SSI sensor grids and block foundation modeling. Active in international committees, he reviews for journals like Géotechnique and serves on ISSMGE technical committees. Notable achievements include over 40 publications in peer-reviewed journals and conferences, including work on centrifuge testing, slope stability, and flood protection dams. His teaching includes geotechnical courses at HSLU since 2011. Current projects address corrosion behavior of piles, seasonal 3D geothermal storage, and structural health monitoring of existing anchors. He is also a member of the organizing committee for the 2026 International Conference on Physical Modelling in Geotechnics (ICPMG Zurich).
Western Switzerland University of Applied SciencesSwitzerland
Favre Boivin Fabienne is a Full Professor and Co-Head of Institute at the Fribourg School of Engineering and Architecture (HES-SO), with a secondary Lecturer role at the School of Engineering and Management of the Canton of Vaud. She specializes in soil protection, water treatment, and sustainable urban development, focusing on biochar applications, soil quality assessment, and urban hydrology. Her research integrates geospatial technologies and interdisciplinary collaboration to address environmental challenges. Her teaching includes BSc programs in Civil Engineering (Fribourg) and Geomatics (Vaud), covering topics like soil sciences, wastewater management, and environmental bases. She leads and collaborates on multiple projects funded by public and private entities, such as the IQS soil quality index and biochar-based water treatment systems. Projects emphasize practical solutions for soil protection, urban water management, and climate resilience. Key research initiatives include the LASOL Living Lab for soil inclusion in urban planning and the SMACC project promoting biochar use in urban filtration systems. She also contributes to hydrological monitoring, micropollutant treatment, and decision-support frameworks for sustainable land use. Her work bridges academia and industry, fostering innovation in environmental engineering and urban sustainability.
