Press information
EAER Press releases
New method for inspecting fuel rods
Researchers at the Paul Scherrer Institute PSI have been examining the cladding tubes of nuclear reactor fuel rods using a new 3D imaging technique. They were able to determine with extremely high precision how the quality of the cladding changes over time as a result of corrosion and radiation exposure. The oxide layer on the tubes proved to retain its density even after years in operation. The new method allows this to be checked in great detail.
SECO: Ordinance on Measures against the Islamic Republic of Iran
On 13 October 2026, the Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research EAER updated the authorisation form for money transfers pursuant to Art. 21 of the Ordinance on Measures against the Islamic Republic of Iran. As of today, only the updated form will be accepted. The form can be accessed here.
Moving chalcogenide materials closer to application Bright crystals
Chalcogenides are versatile materials that are the subject of active research for solar cells, photodetectors and other light and energy conversion applications. Researchers at Empa’s Transport at Nanoscale Interfaces laboratory have for the first time successfully measured chalcogenide perovskites' light-emission efficiency, showing that they are much more efficient at emitting light than expected. The researchers are also exploring promising superconducting and quantum properties in a needle-like form of the material that was previously considered an undesirable byproduct.
Nobel Prize meets PSI research
This year’s Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine honours optogenetics – a biotechnological method through which light can be used to selectively control processes in cells. At the Paul Scherrer Institute PSI, researchers are working to extend this principle beyond nerve cells to other cell types and organs. This could lead to a new generation of optogenetic tools – even to the point of being able to control biological processes with light instead of drugs in the future.
Education scenarios vary widely by level of education
According to the Federal Statistical Office’s (FSO) reference scenario, the number of students attending Swiss higher education institutions is expected to continue to rise (+21% between 2026 and 2035) and to exceed 300 000 at bachelor and master degree level. This increase is largely attributable to population growth and a rise in the number of students from abroad. At the same time, owing to the decline in the number of births, pupil numbers in primary education are expected to fall significantly from 2029 (‒8% between 2026 and 2035), and those in lower secondary education from 2034. The number of secondary II pupils is expected to grow at least until 2035. These are the main results of the 2026–2035 education system scenarios.
Ukraine reconstruction agreement enters into force
The bilateral agreement establishes the legal basis for greater involvement of Swiss companies in rebuilding Ukraine's infrastructure and economy.
Consumer sentiment practically the same as a year ago
In September 2026 the consumer sentiment index stood at –36 points. This is just under 1 point higher than in September 2025. The following sub-index is higher than in September 2025: economic outlook. The following sub-indices are lower than a year ago: past financial situation, financial outlook and moment to make major purchases.
Sanctions: Ordinance on Economic Measures against the Republic of Iraq
The UN sanctions committee has amended the list of sanctioned individuals, companies and organizations. The SESAM database has been updated accordingly. On 4 March 2016 the Federal Council has adopted the Ordinance on the automatic application of the UN Security Council’s sanctions lists. Hence, the amendments of the UN Security Council’s sanctions lists enter into force in Switzerland without delay.
A new approach to treating chronic wounds: Patch brings light to wound care
Chronic wounds place a burden on both patients and the healthcare system. Researchers at Empa are therefore working on an innovative material that releases active ingredients when exposed to visible light. As a component of a wound patch, this technology could improve wound treatment and pave the way for a new generation of smart wound therapies.
Switzerland and India strengthen ties in a range of policy areas during presidential visit
On Monday 5 October, President Guy Parmelin met India’s President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other members of the Indian government in New Delhi. Discussions held with Mr Modi focused on economic relations and cooperation in the fields of education and research. Switzerland and India also concluded two agreements, one on migration and one on training exchanges for young professionals.
Ukraine: Federal Council approves additional Swiss private-sector projects
On 2 October, the Federal Council decided to fund eight projects by Swiss companies to support reconstruction in Ukraine. The projects were selected through a competitive selection process.
Presidential visit to India marks first anniversary of free trade agreement
President Guy Parmelin will travel to India from 5 to 7 October, where he has been invited to pay a state visit. Talks are scheduled to take place with Indian President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The visit marks the first anniversary of the entry into force of the Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) between India and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA). Mr Parmelin is taking part in a TEPA summit alongside delegations from the other EFTA states and will be accompanied by a delegation of business and academic representatives.
FDFA State Secretary Alexandre Fasel holds political consultations with Germany in Bern
State Secretary Alexandre Fasel today received his counterpart from the German Federal Foreign Office, Géza Andreas von Geyr, for political talks. Their discussion centred on the close relations between Switzerland and its largest trading partner, Germany, as well as issues relating to competitiveness and security in Europe. The two state secretaries also discussed their countries' respective positions on other geopolitical developments.
Switzerland and Germany strengthen their cooperation in research and innovation
On 30 September, the 17th bilateral meeting between the State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation and the German Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space took place in Bern. During the meeting, State Secretary Martina Hirayama and State Secretary Marcus Pleyer signed a letter of intent to strengthen cooperation between the two countries in research and innovation.
NEST to celebrate its 10th anniversary: A crystal ball for the building sector
In 2016, a new chapter began on the Empa campus in Dübendorf with the launch of NEST. Its ambitious goal: The innovation platform, which serves as a demonstrator for the built environment, is intended to help develop more sustainable solutions for the building stock more quickly. After ten years, the results are indeed positive: ten innovative construction projects, a network of around 150 partners, and several innovations that have made it to market.
Switzerland and Kuwait celebrate their close ties during an official visit by the Crown Prince
The Crown Prince of Kuwait, Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Mubarak Al Sabah, was received by President Guy Parmelin at the Lohn country residence on Tuesday, 29 September 2026. This is a return visit, following Mr Parmelin’s official visit to Kuwait in February. These high-level meetings are being held to mark the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
Sanctions: Ordinance on Measures Against Certain Individuals, Groups, Companies, and Organisations Associated with ISIL (Da’esh) and Al-Qaïda
The UN sanctions committee has amended the list of sanctioned individuals, companies and organizations. The SESAM database has been updated accordingly. On 4 March 2016 the Federal Council has adopted the Ordinance on the automatic application of the UN Security Council’s sanctions lists. Hence, the amendments of the UN Security Council’s sanctions lists enter into force in Switzerland without delay.
From hours to sub-seconds: AI model allows real-time control of laser welding
Laser welding is an advanced technique used to manufacture high-quality components for a variety of applications, from space to medicine. Researchers from Empa and the quantum computing company Terra Quantum have developed an AI model to accurately simulate and optimize the complex welding process – in fractions of a second.
Federal Council clarifies its sanctions ordinances
On 25 September, the Federal Council took the decision to harmonise and clarify financial provisions in four sanctions ordinances implementing UN sanctions relating to the financing of terrorism and proliferation. Furthermore, international organisations will henceforth benefit from an exemption from the reporting and authorisation requirements for certain transactions under the Iran Ordinance.
FIT for the Future: Shared roof for the research institutes
The four research institutes of the ETH Domain are to collaborate even more closely under a shared roof. They will strengthen the way they coordinate and collaborate on overarching strategic research programmes and will gradually merge their support services. Their own well-established areas of focus and their names will be retained. The ETH Board decided to go ahead with this further development and strengthening of the ETH Domain at its meeting on 23/24 September. In addition, the ETH Board appointed a new member of the Direction of EPFL and the Eawag Directorate.