News & Events

Researchers from D-BSSE, institutions in Basel and their international collaborators show how mechanobiology is evolving – from studying individual molecules to understanding complex cellular systems. This shift helps reveal how physical forces such as pressure and stiffness shape tissues in development, health and disease.

After moving from Australia to Basel, the molecular biologist joined D‑BSSE’s Bioanalytics Lab to advance rapid sepsis diagnostics. Working on portable microfluidic technologies within the RADIANT‑Dx project, the researcher not only has a passion for biology and engineering, but also for the outdoors – setting sights on Switzerland’s via ferrata routes.

On 9 June, the Multicellular Systems lab of Prisca Liberali opened its doors to the public, offering insights into the organisation and regeneration of intestinal organoids (“mini-guts”) and their significance for the future of biomedical research. After a short introduction by Prisca, three of her team members took the visitors onto a guided lab tour.

The latest Scientific Staff Survey at ETH Zurich – broken down to the level of departments – offers insights into doctoral and postdoctoral experiences. Despite moderate participation rates, the survey remains an important tool for shaping future improvements and guiding institutional priorities.

On 29 May, the D-BSSE community came together for the very first edition of “Flavours of D-BSSE”, a vibrant culinary event that marked the end of the semester and the start of the summer season in the most delightful way.

The Swiss medical doctor expected excellence at ETH Zurich – and got a genuine spirit of collaboration as a bonus. In this interview, Tanay reflects on arriving at D‑BSSE, crossing academic boundaries and balancing lab work with life on two wheels.

At its meeting on 20 and 21 May 2026 and upon application of Joël Mesot, President of ETH Zurich, the ETH Board appointed Stephen Quake, currently Professor at Stanford University, USA, as Full Professor of Biophysics and Biomedical Engineering at the D-BSSE and faculty member of the Basel Research Center for Child Health (BRCCH). A warm welcome, Stephen!

A newly funded project led by Na Cai will use advanced statistical and machine learning methods to uncover molecular subtypes of major depressive disorder. By analysing large-scale international datasets, the team aims to identify biological signatures of depression and pave the way for more targeted and effective treatments.

Researchers from the Bio Engineering Lab of Andreas Hierlemann have developed a platform to strengthen or weaken connections between neurons with unprecedented precision. Using high-density microelectrode arrays they built a framework that could guide our understanding of how complex neuronal systems remain stable, resilient, and healthy. Published in Advanced Science, this study marks a step forward in our ability to actively reshape the brain’s fundamental building blocks.