Research is one of Switzerland’s greatest strengths. In its new position paper, swissuniversities highlights its benefits and the framework conditions required to safeguard its excellence. In a rapidly changing world, marked by growing international competition and geopolitical uncertainty, research must remain a strategic investment for Switzerland.
Research generates knowledge, trains the specialists of tomorrow and drives innovation. In doing so, research enables us to address both current and future challenges. Its benefits extend throughout society and contribute directly to the country’s prosperity, security and cohesion. Swiss research has produced numerous innovations, including new filters that remove persistent chemicals from water, a 3D model for simulating rockfalls and a new blood-based method for detecting breast cancer.
To fully harness this potential, Swiss research needs favourable framework conditions. First and foremost, it requires strong, sustained and predictable public funding. This stability must be accompanied by strong higher education institutions and research organisations, an attractive environment for talent, and close cooperation at national and international levels.
A summary of the position paper is available here, and the full document can be found here.