In conversation with Falko Schlottig
Since 2022, the FHNW School of Life Sciences has focused on deepening its core scientific disciplines, implementing digital tools and renewing its commitment to applied research that matters to industry and government. Prof. Dr. Falko Schlottig, Director of the FHNW School of Life Sciences, comments on key aspects of the school’s strategy and vision for 2035.
Prof. Dr. Schlottig, what role does collaboration play at the FHNW School of Life Sciences?
Universities of Applied Sciences play a unique and important role in Switzerland’s education and economy. First, we contribute research expertise and cutting-edge facilities to projects with the private sector and government agencies, helping them address challenges and answer questions. Second, these collaborative research projects offer undergraduate and postgraduate students exciting opportunities to work on real world situations and needs. We adapt our BSc and MSc programmes each year, to reflect changes we see in industry. The success of our school is built on a dynamic interplay between research and education.
Working with others helps us excel. By selecting the right partners to collaborate with, we are more innovative than when we work solo. This philosophy also applies within our school. Our four institutes work together on cross-disciplinary projects. A collaborative approach is needed to solve the challenges of our time.
“In our communities, with industry, for patients and with research peers, the people of the FHNW School of Life Sciences are driving innovation forward.”
Which educational and scientific areas has the FHNW School of Life Sciences identified as a priority?
Digital technologies are now integrated into all our BSc programmes. We’re implementing a combination of life sciences and artificial intelligence, data science, digital twins, automation and robotics across our research areas, and defining how staff and students effectively and ethically work with new tools. Future health is a priority topic identified by the FHNW that our school can make important contributions to.
The FHNW School of Life Sciences is moving forward in applied quantum computing. We’ve established a new research group in this field, and are working closely with Quantum Basel to bring applied research problems to the table.
Sustainable chemistry is growing, with a new BSc programme in development. Several of our research projects contribute to the FHNW’s zero emission priority and to EU projects. Grassroots efforts initiated by the school’s researchers are underway to make our lab operations more sustainable.
It’s critical to take a step forward in applying biobased technologies and other green methods for producing basic chemicals. This is a need shared across the industry that will require us to be ambitious and work together.
Furthermore, the FHNW School of Life Sciences is strengthening its activities in biotech, medtech, medinformatics, pharmatech, cell biology and diagnostics.
What is the FHNW School of Life Sciences‘ local and international positioning?
The FHNW School of Life Sciences offers a wealth of international study programmes and opportunities to students. Being well connected to the international environment is our responsibility. Many multinational companies are established in Switzerland and do business around the world. Our MSc programmes in particular need to prepare students for this context. In parallel, Universities of Applied Sciences are at the service of local businesses, cities and cantons. Our staff and students develop many valuable business relationships at the regional level.
Negotiations for Switzerland’s reassociation to Horizon Europe are progressing well. Already in 2024, researchers in Switzerland were able to participate in the ERC Advanced Grants call as beneficiaries. In 2025, Swiss researchers can participate in the calls for the ERC Starting Grant, Synergy Grant and Consolidator Grant. These are all positive signals that the full reassociation of Switzerland to Horizon Europe is around the corner. In the meantime, our researchers have found new ways of making meaningful contributions to European research projects, several of which are showcased in our Research Highlights 2024 brochure.
The pandemic followed by two wars have led to difficult conditions around the world. How has the FHNW School of Life Sciences felt this impact?
For the most part, we are in a very privileged position as a member of a world-leading life sciences cluster here in Basel. Like others in the field, we were affected by changes in the price of energy, chemicals and gases, as well as other strains on the supply chain.
We are confronted by uncertainties and changes in industry, finance and society. That’s why we aim to develop critical thinking and a sense of self-responsibility in our students. Listening, asking questions in order to propose relevant solutions and not being afraid to make a change. Recognizing that our research is important and has the potential to make a difference in the world.
What is the FHNW School of Life Sciences‘ vision for 2035?
In addition to the collaborative, scientific and international aspects we’ve talked about, a key element is putting people at the centre. It’s our staff’s enthusiasm and ideas that drive us forward. We’ve been lucky to add several new team leaders that bring industry experience and networks with them. Our gender and cultural diversity are increasing, and this brings a greater range of perspectives to our work.
Harnessing our potential means empowering staff. Providing freedom to operate and taking the time to listen to each other. Asking ourselves honestly where we can have the most impact and setting priorities together helps us stay focused. As we embrace new work and its flexibility, we recognise the value of face-to-face conversations and being present for our colleagues and clients. In our communities, with industry, for patients and with research peers, the people of the FHNW School of Life Sciences are driving innovation forward.