The National Centres of Competence in Research NCCR

Swiss National Science Foundation Wildhainweg 3 The National Centres of Competence PO Box 8232 CH - 3001 Berne in Research NCCR Phone: +41 (0)31 308 22 22 Cutting Edge Research Made in Switzerland Fax: +41 (0)31 301 30 09 E-mail: [email protected] www.snsf.ch Content

2 Introduction

4 | 5 NCCR “Nanoscale Science” NCCR “FINRISK” NCCR “Neuro” NCCR “Structural Biology”

6 NCCR “CO-ME” Special care thanks to ultrasound robots

9 | 10 NCCR “Climate” NCCR “North-South” NCCR “MICS” NCCR “Molecular Oncology”

11 NCCR “Genetics” International laurels for a genetics lab

14 | 15 NCCR “MaNEP” NCCR “Iconic Criticism” NCCR “IM2” NCCR “Mediality”

16 Research in networks – the NCCR recipe for success

18 NCCR “Quantum Photonics” Fertile ground for young firms

21 | 22 NCCR “Trade Regulation” NCCR “Affective Sciences” NCCR “QSIT” NCCR “MUST”

23 NCCR “Plant Survival” Odour explorers in a cornfield

26 | 27 NCCR “Kidney.CH” NCCR “TransCure” NCCR “Robotics” NCCR “SYNAPSY”

28 NCCR “Democracy” The quality of democracies put to the scientific test

31 NCCR “LIVES” NCCR “Chemical Biology”

32 Imprint submitted for the eight NCCRs, indicating the areas that otherwise would require individual high level of interest in the NCCRs. Yet the sci- measures: entific selection is stringent and is carried out in – They leave a lasting mark that far outstrips several stages with recommendations from pan- the period for which they run. By focusing their els composed of international experts. content, the NCCRs have permanently changed There are many reasons why researchers join structures in the research landscape. This was together in consortia and compete to be awarded how, for example, the Centre for Democracy in a NCCR. For example, the instrument promises a Aarau was set up, and the Oeschger Centre for comparatively wide range of funding on a time Climate Research was formed at the University scale that is unprecedented in Switzerland. A of Bern; 12-year perspective is invaluable to the research – They operate as a network in which a large sector because it allows new research fields to body of scientific partners are active. The work in The National Centres of Competence be developed and research approaches to be these networks has proved to be fertile ground in adopted on a trial and error basis. which original and innovative research approaches in Research: Secrets of a Swiss Success It is not only the researchers, but also the uni- can flourish; versities that benefit from being involved in – They have proven to be a successful means Story a NCCR. Being the host institution of a NCCR of knowledge and technology transfer. The way brings the promise of prestige and recogni- they are structured helps ensure that the results tion. Moreover, the universities use the NCCRs of basic research are channelled as directly as The National Centres of Competence in Research (NCCRs) are an innovative fund- to press ahead with structural change in their possible into society. Between the years 2001 ing instrument for promoting Swiss cutting-edge research. Working together institutions. NCCRs help them to reflect on their and 2008, the NCCRs entered into 580 partner- own strengths. “On the one hand, NCCRs give ships with companies and founded or supported in networks, researchers focus on more than two dozen topics ranging from the host institutions the opportunity to define 46 start-up enterprises. The expertise of the medical technology, research into emotions and chemical biology to framework strategic centres of competence, on the other, NCCRs has aroused the interest of corporate conditions for international trade. they place them under a financial obligation”, global players. explains René Schwarzenbach of the Swiss – They are a hotbed of talent. The NCCRs When the federal council decided to promote a in areas in which there is already a great deal of National Science Foundation, “which is what have created 63 assistant professorships, in new, targeted funding instrument for leading- knowledge and outstanding research achieve- makes the continuing interest in the NCCR fund- addition 972 junior researchers have completed edge research at the end of the 1990s, the aim ments. To do so, a network of partner institu- ing instrument all the more remarkable.” their doctorates in the NCCR doctorate pro- was clear: research must remain a trump card tions in which researchers collaborate closely gramme. Specific advancement of newcomers for Switzerland in the competition between sci- on an interdisciplinary basis, is established Background to a success story has allowed young researchers to fast-track their entific communities for new discoveries and around a centre of competence at a university academic careers and has helped other NCCR brilliant minds. Research is being increasingly or other higher-education research institution. The National Centres of Competence in Research doctoral students to succeed in business and acknowledged as the real driving force of a Synergies are created within this network while have therefore proven their worth for the indi- administration. country’s future development, where value cre- the interfaces between the various disciplines vidual research teams as well as for the Swiss ation relies to a growing extent on knowledge frequently give rise to new insights and innova- academic landscape. Above all, however, the It is undeniable that the NCCRs are a success, and innovation. tion. In a sense, the NCCRs generate a certain NCCRs are a scientific success. Their reputation and, what is more, they represent a particularly Switzerland is well on the way to becoming critical mass of expertise and state-of-the-art has attracted talented scientists from all over exciting chapter in the history of Swiss research a knowledge-based society and the National knowledge which enables Switzerland to keep the world, reinforcing Switzerland’s status as funding. This brochure is intended to provide an Centres of Competence in Research have con- pace with major research nations and to directly a centre of research. A progress report by the overview of the content and scope of the 27 tributed in no small way to this. “The NCCRs reinforce its scientific competitiveness. Swiss National Science Foundation shows that National Centres of Competence in Research. have achieved a great deal”, explains René between 2001 and 2008, approximately 10,000 Using facts and figures we will show what the Schwarzenbach, President of Division IV of the Attractive long term perspectives scientific publications were generated by the 20 NCCRs do, and with selected examples we will Swiss National Science Foundation, “thanks to NCCRs from the first and second round. (Further provide a closer look at the work of the research- their outstanding work, they have made lead- In the meantime, the long-term centres of com- details are contained in the centre part of this ers. In other words, we shall reveal the secrets ing-edge Swiss research more visible at national petence are leaving a lasting mark on the Swiss brochure.) of the making of a Swiss success story. and international level.” This view is also shared research landscape. The first series of NCCRs by foreign experts assessing the NCCRs from a will come to an end in 2013, while those of Thanks to the specific approach to their work, scientific perspective. the second round are in full swing, and a third in the form of intensive inter-institutional and In specific terms, the current 27 NCCRs are inten- round is currently being established for launch cross-disciplinary collaboration, the NCCRs ded to strengthen the Swiss research community in 2010. For this third series, 54 proposals were enable added value to be achieved in various

2 3 Fig. 4.1 Fig. 4.2

Fig. 3.1

Fig. 1.1–4 The nanosciences Fig. 4.1/4.2 The NCCR “Structural Biol- continue in their race to the ogy” studies, most notably, the structure of infinitely small. For this they rely Fig. 2.1 The NCCR “FINRISK” membrane proteins. Proteins are much too on new instruments such as tun- makes the results of its re- small to be observed by optic microscopy. nel microscopes. The maximum search available to the finan- Only processes such as electron microscopy, magnification obtained with these cial economy. At the annual nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, or instruments reveals the atoms in meeting of the Swiss Finance the analysis of the structure through X-rays the graphite tip of a pencil, magni- Institute, researcher Olivier The NCCR “Neuro” seeks specifically to develop new therapies to fight make it possible to obtain an image of crys- fied once, 300 times, 90,000 times, Scaillet presents a study on tallized proteins. 27 million times. how the element of chance against diseases of the nervous influences the performance system. Tissue samples of mice of investment funds. (Fig. 3.1) are analysed to study how the protein Flotillin (in green) is associated with Alzheimer’s disease (amyloid peptides, in blue). Combined with targeted training, therapy using the antibody blocking protein Nogo, allows rats with spinal cord lesions to recover their mobility (Fig. 3.2). Early clinical studies are Fig. 1.1 Fig. 1.2 Fig. 1.3 Fig. 1.4 already being conducted on human subjects. Fig. 3.2

1. NCCR “Nanoscale 4. NCCR “Structural

Science” 2. NCCR “FINRISK” 3. NCCR “Neuro” Biology”

The NCCR “Nanoscale Science – Impact on Life The NCCR “FINRISK – Financial Valuation and The NCCR “Neuro – Neural Plasticity and Repair” The NCCR “Structural Biology – Molecular Life Sciences, Sustainability, Information and Com- Risk Management” is devoted to understanding is working on restoring the functions of the Sciences: Three Dimensional Structure, Fold- munication Technologies” focuses on an area of risks associated with financial decision-making nervous system following injury or sickness. It ing and Interactions” investigates the structure research with great significance for the future. and the influence of such risks on asset and therefore investigates the cellular and molecu- of macromolecules, in particular membrane Nanosciences deal with the fundamental build- company valuation. The programme focuses on lar mechanisms of regeneration, plasticity and proteins and supra-molecular complexes, and ing blocks of matter and their properties in the the study of financial and non-financial risk fac- functional repair of damaged nervous systems. links these findings with functional information. smallest spatial dimensions and deliver basic tors affecting wealth creation and the optimal The research focuses on Alzheimer’s disease, Knowledge of the three-dimensional struc- knowledge from the disciplines of biology, operation of financial institutions. Despite its multiple sclerosis, strokes and spinal cord ture of proteins, and their folding and interac- chemistry, physics and engineering. Yet life prominence as a financial centre, Switzerland injuries. The NCCR “Neuro” promotes synergies tion with other molecules, is crucial both to sciences and new approaches in information has been poorly represented in the interna- between experimental and clinical research in understanding basic life processes and devel- technology are also based on nanoscale build- tional finance research community. NCCR “FIN- collaboration with biologists, physicians and oping innovative medicines. Access to innova- ing blocks, which is why new approaches, RISK” has changed this situation, assembling engineers. They develop new therapies, gen- tive technologies is important for this type of scientific tools, manufacturing methods and first class researchers and contributing a steady erate leading-edge technologies and provide research, which is why the NCCR “Structural understanding of nanosciences are being devel- flow of top international journal publications. tools and services. The University of Zurich Biology” has invested heavily in this area and oped jointly. The NCCR “Nanoscale Science” A central aspect of the programme is the train- and ETH Zurich have extended considerably has also set up three technology platforms. provides an interface between research institu- ing of highly qualified specialists for the Swiss the research field of the NCCR “Neuro”. Further The NCCR initiated the foundation of a centre tions and industry, and established the Swiss financial sector. In addition, the NCCR contrib- expansion is planned for the future. of competence in structural biology, which is Nanoscience Institute (SNI) in Basel. uted to the establishment of the Swiss Finance jointly managed by the University of Zurich and Institute. www.nccr-neuro.uzh.ch ETH Zurich. www.nccr-nano.org www.nccr-finrisk.uzh.ch www.structuralbiology.uzh.ch

4 5 NCCR “CO-ME”

Swiss researchers are world leaders in the field of non-invasive surgery. The recipe for success: doctors and engineers work hand-in-hand in the NCCR “CO-ME”, combining the best of their expertise to create new methods.

The microscopic robot is injected into the to how these can be used to best effect eye using an ultra-fine needle. Control- in ophthalmology. “This means that we led by a magnetic field, it moves through look at the problem both from a techni- the vitreous humour and attaches itself to cal perspective and a medical one”, says the retina, where, over an extended period, Professor Bradley Nelson, founder of the it dispenses medication that prevents the Institute of Robotics and Intelligent Sys- patient from going blind. tems at the Federal Institute of Technology In a few years this could be the standard in Zurich. In addition to leading the Multi- treatment for an eye disease known as wet Scale Robotics Lab and to being a “CO-ME” macular degeneration. In initial tests on Project Leader, he has also observed eye pigs, the researchers were able to inject operations in order to gain a better under- miniature robots into an animal’s eye and standing of the doctors’ work: “That was to control them. A team of doctors, chem- extremely important”. ists, engineers and robotics scientists are now working to enable medicinal robots to Close collaboration between research and one day be used in the human eye. practice This collaboration of doctors and engineers forms the basis for the success of Whereas the robotics project is still in the National Centre of Competence in the early stages of research, other NCCR Research (NCCR) “CO-ME – Computer- projects have already progressed further. Aided and Image-Guided Medical Inter- For example, in 2008 Ernst Martin’s team ventions”. By combining different areas of at the Children’s Hospital in Zurich carried knowledge and using the latest computer out the world’s first brain surgery without technology, internationally ground-break- opening the cranium. Using focused ultra- Special care thanks to ultrasound ing results are achieved that are safer and sound the researchers switched off nerve less invasive for patients. “It is wonder- cells that were causing severe pain to the robots ful when two such different worlds come patient. In a subsequent stage, research together, so that each can learn another is now being carried out to determine approach”, says Carsten Framme, oph- whether ultrasound could be effective thalmologist at University Hospital Bern. against brain tumours. Together with the He advises scientists at the Federal Insti- Cantonal Hospital of Aarau, Ernst Martin’s tute of Technology, which has been devel- team is conducting trials in which they will oping miniature robots for six years, as attempt to destroy small brain tumours

6 7 The NCCR “North-South” includes focusing on issues related to promoting health in developing countries. The builder of a bridge over a polluted river in Côte d’Ivoire (Fig. 7.1) requests a small fee from users who are now able to avoid the health risks of crossing through the river. Fig. 7.1 The extent of environmental damage around the world is varied: in the Pamir region in Tajikistan (Fig. 7.2), teresken Fig. 6.1 In Southern Europe, the bushes are cut and used as firewood. health risks due to global climate This practice contributes more to soil change have increased more than degradation than overgrazing. was previously thought. Metropo- lises such as Athens, Marseille and Milan (Fig.) are particularly threatened.

Fig. 7.2 Fig. 5.1 The instruments developed by the NCCR “CO-ME” are used worldwide in the development and training of doctors. With the “HystSim” simulator, a surgeon performs a virtual uterine operation. using ultrasound – a further example of the intensive collaboration between research and practice, as specifically encouraged in the NCCR “CO-ME”. The ultrasound researchers also want to solve a further puzzle in the battle against brain tumours: how can medication be 5. NCCR “CO-ME” 6. NCCR “Climate” 7. NCCR “North-South” transported into the brain in sufficient quantities? The brain is protected against foreign substances by a physiological bar- The NCCR “CO-ME – Computer Aided and Image The NCCR “Climate – Climate Variability, Pre- The NCCR “North-South – Research Partnerships rier, which stops a significant quantity of Guided Medical Interventions” develops leading- dictability and Climate Risks” investigates for Mitigating Syndromes of Global Change” medication from reaching the place where edge technology for the operating theatre, focus- processes in the climate system, its variabil- seeks answers to the challenges of global ing on surgical interventions on the head. The ity and predictability, as well as the complex change and sustainable development. The it is to take effect. In animal experiments key issues include protection of tissue by using relationships between climate, economy and programme network includes 350 researchers, Ernst Martin’s team have already suc- minimally invasive surgery and reducing the size of social factors. Scientists from a wide range of active in over 40 countries. Of central impor- ceeded in opening this blood-brain barrier surgical instruments. The researchers work closely disciplines work together towards this end. tance is the partnership between participants for a few hours using focused ultrasound. with surgeons and medical practitioners to ensure The main focuses of the projects are the impact in the industrialised “North” and in developing “If we could manage to do that in humans that technological developments are tested in of climate change on the water cycle, climate and transition countries (“South”). The NCCR as well, it would be a milestone in the practice and brought to the market as quickly as change and extreme events, and the assess- “North-South” promotes a transdisciplinary treatment of brain tumours”, says Mar- possible. The strengths of the NCCR “CO-ME” are ment of climate risks. Risk considerations focus approach to research on sustainable develop- tin. But it doesn’t stop there: “We aim to simulation, navigation and the development of on sectors of industry which are particularly ment. Fields of research include livelihoods, set up a major platform so that special- instruments including robots. The NCCR generated affected: from agriculture to the insurance and armed conflicts, health and environmental ists from all over the world can access our three medical technology centres at ETH Zurich financial sectors. The NCCR “Climate” has gen- sanitation, natural resources, and governance. knowledge.” and at the Universities of Berne and Basel, which erated two permanent research centres: the The University of Bern, the host institution, intend to continue their collaboration after the Oeschger Centre for Climate Change Research at has designated North-South research as one conclusion of the NCCR. the University of Bern and the Centre for Climate of its main focuses. The NCCR has already led Systems Modeling at the ETH Zurich. to the creation of the interdisciplinary Centre www.co-me.ch for Sustainable Development and Environment www.nccr-climate.unibe.ch at the University of Bern as well as the Inter- national Graduate School North-South which offers a doctoral programme covering subjects on global change, innovation and sustainable development.

www.north-south.unibe.ch 8 9 NCCR “Genetics”

Fig. 8.1

The NCCR “Molecular Oncology” studies among other issues, the mechanisms behind the formation of tumours. The tran- scription factor Prox 1, which is responsible for the development of this tumour in the intestine of a mouse (Fig. 9.1), is visible in green. Fig. 9.1 In human skin (Fig. 9.2), original stem cells are the source of all hair follicles cells (Fig. 9.2 left). If the original stem cells mutate, their growth can become uncon- trollable and lead to the forma- The techniques developed within the tion of cancer (Fig. 9.2 right). framework of the NCCR “MICS” are tested most notably on systems imple- menting collaborative robots. These robots use wireless communication to exchange data on their location and thus improve their ability to position themselves (Fig. 8.1). Another application consists of wireless sensors for environmental monitoring. Fig. 8.2 This technology makes it possible to predict the movement of rocks in high risk areas (Fig. 8.2).

Fig. 9.2

9. NCCR “Molecular 8. NCCR “MICS” Oncology”

The NCCR “MICS - Mobile Information and The NCCR “Molecular Oncology – From Basic Communication Systems” uses the latest Research to Therapeutic Approaches” strength- developments in mobile communication: in ens cancer research in Switzerland. Working particular the ever increasing ability of devices with partners from different university hospitals to interconnect directly with one another to and the pharmaceutical industry, the research- form decentralized, self-organizing networks. ers seek new cancer therapies, discover mech- Thus environmental information, for example, anisms of tumour formation and endeavour is measured, processed and provided over the to translate these findings into therapeutic internet using wireless sensor networks. Envi- approaches. The NCCR “Molecular Oncology” ronmental monitoring is just one of the applica- thus creates bridges between basic and clini- tions of these newly developed technologies cal cancer research. The research projects target and platforms. Other projects involve the locali- different aspects of the fundamental biology of zation of mobile robots and security protocols tumours and the response of healthy cells to for wireless networks. As the home institution cancer. Thanks to this NCCR, cancer research of the NCCR “MICS”, the EPF Lausanne has sub- in Lausanne is being strengthened and reor- stantially expanded its School of Computer and ganised. A cancer research centre, where International laurels for Communication Sciences with 20 new profes- teams from EPF Lausanne and the University of sorships. In addition, the ETH Zurich has refo- Lausanne will work closely together, is being cused its research activities in the area of the set up at the University Hospital Center (CHUV) a genetics lab NCCR “MICS”. Lausanne.

www.mics.org www.nccr-oncology.ch

10 11 The research of Professor Pedro Herrera, member of the NCCR “Genetics”, opens up new horizons in the treatment of diabetes. It also reveals the ability of specific Fig. 10.1 The NCCR “Genet- ics” develops animal models cells to re-programme themselves and change function: a discovery published in in vivo to analyze specific aspects of gene regulation. the journal Nature. This makes it possible to determine the genetic causes of human diseases. The sec- tion of a mouse brain shows The University Hospitals Geneva Medi- simulate type 1 diabetes, triggered by an obvious case of transdifferentiation, or various sectors, depending cal Centre is a maze of long corridors. At auto-immune reaction to the pancreatic less specialised cell transformation that on the composition of brain cells, that are colored differ- the end of one of these corridors, on the beta cells, the ones which produce insu- does not include an intermediary form of ently using viruses. fifth floor, we find Simona Chera, 30 years lin. “Using this mouse we can target and stem cell. old and head biology assistant in Profes- destroy beta cells with over 99% accuracy Simona Chera is now trying to find out why sor Pedro Herrera’s team. Her compu- by injecting diphtheria toxin,” explains young mice are better able to generate new ter screen displays a picture of World of Pedro Herrera. “As opposed to unabated cells than old mice: fascinating work which Warcraft, a well-known online adventure auto-immune attack, here we’re dealing does not stop the young Romanian woman 10. game. “When I’m not working, I spend with isolated destruction which allows us from enjoying the outcome of the new NCCR “Genetics” most of my time playing on the computer.” to see whether the pancreas can generate sequel to another online game, Starcraft. This young Romanian woman believes new beta cells.” The NCCR “Genetics – Frontiers in Genetics – you must sacrifice everything to the cause And that’s exactly what happened. After a Genes, Chromosomes and Development” stud- in order to be an outstanding scientist. few months, new beta cells formed in the ies the function and regulation of certain genes Simona joined Pedro Herrera’s team in rodents’ pancreases. Regeneration defi- during their development, as well as their role in June 2008. Before that she completed a nitely occurred. maintaining health or favouring the emergence of pathologies. The NCCR “Genetics” promotes thesis as part of the NCCR “Genetics – exchanges between the different research groups, Frontiers in Genetics: Genes, Chromo- Significant insight into diabetes most of them in the Lake Geneva Region, inves- somes and Development” at the laboratory tigating gene expression, chromosome structure of Brigitte Galliot, a renowned specialist in Does this discovery give rise to hope of new and organism development. This collaboration the study of hydra and the capacity of this therapies? “Yes, because if we were to find has led to the creation of five biotechnological aquatic creature to regenerate itself. The a way of checking or moderating the auto- platforms. This shared infrastructure gives the knowledge of cell regeneration acquired immune attack, patients might be able to scientific community and private sector access by the young biologist over four years is recover some of their beta cells spontane- to the latest analytical technology and unique precisely what interested Pedro Herrera ously,” adds the head of the laboratory. genetic molecular tools. An interfaculty institute in who has been working for several years on Simona Chera is the latest member of the “Genetics/Genomics” is planned at the University the regenerative potential of the pancreas. laboratory team. “Part of my work is to of Geneva. The NCCR “Genetics” postgraduate trace which genes trigger regeneration of programme attracts talented individuals from all Prof. Herrera asked Simona Chera to the beta cells”. The team actually discov- over the world. join his team, illustrating the exceptional ered that most of the new beta cells derive mobility offered to young scientists by from the spontaneous reprogramming of www.frontiers-in-genetics.org the NCCRs, thanks to the many contacts another type of pancreatic cell, the alpha they establish within the network. The cells. They produce glucagon which has team developed a transgenetic mouse to the opposite effect to that of insulin. An

12 13 Fig. 13.1 The NCCR “Mediality” studies forms of communication predat- ing our current mass media. The Fig. 12.1 The NCCR “MaNEP” not only develops materials first cartographic representa- with exceptional properties, for example crystalline tion of Switzerland dating from structures produced under pressure (Fig. 11.1) or 1480 (Fig. 14.1) was intended to artificial multilayers (Fig. 11.2). establish this then young political entity among the concert of At PhysiScope (Fig. 11.3), young visitors can also Fig. 14.1 European powers. discover the mysteries of physics through interactive experiments and games. The silent film “Nosferatu” from 1922 (Fig. 14.2) is interesting Fig. 11.1 from the point of view of media history. This letter with its Fig. 12.2 hieroglyphics gives a historical background to events.

Fig. 11.2

The NCCR “Iconic Criticism” examines, most notably, what determines and changes our perception of images. The iPhone application Fig. 13.2 NCCR “IM2” focuses on ways to simplify the “You Tube” (Fig. 12.1) shows how our per- use of everyday computing. Face recogni- ception is marked by how we see the world tion allows a login without a username or Fig. 14.2 on and off the screen. The NCCR is also inter- password (Fig. 13.1). As for the virtual as- ested in how social networks on the internet sistant “Automatic Content Linking Device” (Web 2.0) affect the identity of individuals. (Fig. 13.2), it monitors conversations in a In his work “Everyday”, photographer Noah ‘Smart Meeting Room’ and automatically Kalina publishes to the Web the series of makes available relevant information and self-portraits he has taken every day since documentation such as minutes, websites 2000 (Fig. 12.2). or excerpts that might be useful to the Fig. 11.3 discussion.

12. NCCR “Iconic

11. NCCR “MaNEP” Criticism” 13. NCCR “IM2” 14. NCCR “Mediality”

The NCCR “MaNEP – Materials with Novel The work of the NCCR “Iconic Criticism – Power The NCCR “IM2 – Interactive Multimodal Infor- NCCR “Mediality – Historical Perspectives” Electronic Properties” studies materials with and Importance of Images” is situated against mation Management” researches interaction focuses on the historicity of media and medi- outstanding properties. These materials are the backdrop of the digital revolution that has between humans and computers. At the fore- ality. It investigates forms of communication featured in some magnetic, ferroelectric and created a new image-based society. Images are front is the development of interfaces, therefore before the era of mass-media and technologi- super conductors. All have a large potential used more today than ever before as a means researchers study how spoken, written and ges- cally oriented media discourses. Through the for applications, particularly in energy produc- of universal communication and vehicle for tural language may be combined in multimedia analysis of texts, images, maps, sculptures, tion and distribution, information technology, imparting knowledge. The knowledge society systems. These so-called multimodal interac- architecture, textiles, sounds and films, particu- sensors and nanotechnology. As electronic has also become an image-based one. However tions cover a broad range of applications: from lar situations are examined, in which change interactions play an important role in many of comprehension of the particularities, functions, voice recognition and computer visualisation, to in communication practices, new dynamics these materials, it is difficult to describe their power and impact of images has failed to stay dealing with multimedia information. The new in media forms, and reflection on the condi- properties theoretically. The work of the NCCR abreast of this development. The NCCR “Iconic interfaces are to be used wherever current tech- tions of communication become palpable. The “MaNEP” researchers aims at achieving a better Criticism” (also called “eikones”) gives images nologies such as keyboard, mouse and screen main question is what can act as a medium, understanding of these new materials and at the attention they deserve. Its key questions no longer suffice for the complex interaction and what are the specific conditions that make preparing for future applications. Academic and are: How do images create meaning – in science, between humans and machine. Thanks to the mediacy possible. Participating fields of the industry partners cooperate closely towards this daily life and art? What influences images and NCCR, the IDIAP research institute in Martigny NCCR are: German literature and linguistics, end, within the NCCR’s Swiss-wide network. how, in turn, do images influence us? And has been considerably extended and has inten- history, history of art, film studies, musicology, where does the specific power of images lie? sified its cooperation with EPF Lausanne. Scandinavian studies, romance literature and www.manep.ch linguistics, as well as law. www.eikones.ch www.im2.ch www.mediality.ch

14 15 Research in networks – – International recognition the NCCR recipe for success – Boosting structures

– Focusing on applications

– Promoting young talent Networking of the National International Recognition Development of Research Knowledge Transfer Promoting Young Talent Employers of Completed Doctorates/ Students' Origin NCCR Funding Sources (Accumulated 2001 – 2010) Centres of Competence in Structures (2001-2008) Postdoctorates Doctorates Postdoctorates Overall Amount (bn CHF) Notes Research (NCCR) Articles in Scientific Journals 13'110 New Chairs 65 Patents 295 Completed Doctorates 1013 Research 71% Switzerland 443 283 726 SNSF Funding 581,92 36.6% Including data from all NCCRs 2001 and 2010 Other Scientific Publications 5'278 Existing Chairs Refocused to a Research Area of an NCCR 47 Projects Funded by The Innovation Completed Postdoctorates 1146 Public Service 5% Europe (without Switzerland) 414 639 1053 Home Institution's Funding 226,66 14.3% Including data from 20 NCCRs 2001 – 2010, without 3rd NCCR series

International Research Cooperations 2'140 Assistant Professorships 63 Promotion Agency CTI 87 Industry 21% America (N/S) 38 67 105 Funding from Network or University Partners 607,45 38.2% Including data from 20 NCCRs 2001 – 2010, without 3rd NCCR series

Participation of Projects in International Programmes 407 Participating Professors (overall) 600 Cooperation with Industry 661 Others 3% Africa 29 14 43 3rd-Party-Funding 174,00 10.9% 2001 – 2008

Prototypes 45 Asia 84 132 216 Overall 1'590,03 100.0%

Start-up-companies / Spin-offs 56 Australia / Oceania 5 11 16 Overall 1013 1146 2159

1st series from 2001 2nd series from 2005 3rd series from 2010

NCCR "CO-ME" NCCR “Genetics” NCCR “IM2” NCCR “Plant Survival” NCCR “Quantum Photonics” NCCR “MaNEP” NCCR “North-South” NCCR “Iconic Criticism” NCCR “Trade Regulation” NCCR “Mediality” NCCR “QSIT” NCCR “Chemical Biology” NCCR “MUST” NCCR “Robotics”

University of Zurich University of Zurich

ETH Zurich ETH Zurich

University of Bern University of Bern

University of Basel University of Basel

University of Lucerne University of Lucerne

University of St. Gallen University of St. Gallen

University of Geneva University of Geneva

University of Lausanne University of Lausanne

EPF Lausanne EPF Lausanne

University of Fribourg University of Fribourg

University of Neuchâtel University of Neuchâtel

Idiap Martigny Idiap Martigny

USI Lugano USI Lugano

Universities of BUAS FHNW, HES-SO HES-SO FHNW FHNW FHNW HES-SO SUPSI Applied Sciences Universities of Applied Sciences

FMI PSI ART, ACW, CABI SIB, LI CSEM CSEM PSI, EMPA MeteoSchweiz, EAWAG, IHEID, CSEM, PSI, EMPA, Schaulager c2D, IDHEAP IHEID Novartis IBM IDHEAP IOSI PSI FMI EMPA Various, CH EAWAG, Swisspeace, IBM Diverse, CH WSL, ART, PSI SDC, - Swiss TPH - -1 WZB, universities of -2 Various, international Münster, Greifswald Diverse, international and Amsterdam

NCCR “FINRISK” NCCR “Structural Biology” NCCR “Neuro” NCCR “Molecular Oncology” NCCR “MICS” NCCR “Climate” NCCR “Nanoscale Science” NCCR “Democracy” NCCR “Affective Sciences” NCCR “Kidney.CH” NCCR “LIVES” NCCR “TransCure” NCCR “SYNAPSY”

Home institution Culture & Coexistence Cultural, Social, Economic Questions Universities of Applied Sciences Various Swiss Research Institutes Various International networks

BUAS Bern University of Applied Sciences ART/ACW Agroscope Agricultural Research Stations IDHEAP Swiss Graduate School of Public Administration, PSI Paul Scherrer Institute -1- Numerous Research Partnerships with Universities and other Network New Materials & Technology Physical, Technological and Natural Science Questions (except Biology) FHNW University of Applied Sciences Northwestern Switzerland CABI Commonwealth Agricultural Bureau International; Lausanne Schaulager Schaulager (Laurenz Foundation), Münchenstein Institutions on Four Continents HES-SO University of Applied Sciences Western Switzerland Bioscience Institute, Délemont IHEID Graduate Institute of International and SIB Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics -2- Numerous Participating Research Groups from European and Life & Health Issues Related to Biology and Medicine and the Basics of Life SUPSI University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland CSEM Centre Suisse d'Electronique et Microtechnique, Neuchâtel Development Studies, Geneva Swiss TPH Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute US universities as well as from International Organisations SDC Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation IOSI Istituto Oncologico Svizzera Italiana, Bellinzona swisspeace Peace Research Institute, Bern WZB Social Science Research Center Berlin Environment Issues Related to Ecology and Ecosystems EAWAG Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology LI Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Lausanne WSL Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and EMPA Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Testing and Research MeteoSwiss MeteoSwiss, The Federal Office of Meteorology and Landscape Research FMI Friedrich-Miescher-Institute for Biomedical Research, Basel Climatology c2D Centre for Research on Direct Democracy, Aarau IBM IBM Research, Rüschlikon Novartis Novartis Research Centre, Basel NCCR “Quantum Photonics”

The EPFL spin-off company which deals in semi-conductive materials for diodes and lasers, draws significant benefits from the technologies, knowledge and equipment of the NCCR “Quantum Photonics”. An essential, indispensable pool for the company’s development, NCCR QP is also a boon to the university researchers.

Sometimes a lot of ground has to be covered of different atoms, then stack perfect layers before a brilliant idea becomes a technical of crystals of nano-metric proportions”. reality. To do so, the optimum conditions must be found. The founders of Novagan, a Time and means fledging company in the photonics sector, considered that they had struck it lucky In taking up the challenge, Novagan ben- in 2009 with the EPF Lausanne, the host efits from the transfer of technologies institution of the NCCR “Quantum Pho- developed as part of the NCCR “Quantum tonics”. Assisted by scientists at the EPFL, Photonics”. Without it, the task would have the fledgling company develops innova- been impossible. Eric Feltin explains: tive components for light-emitting diodes “Several factors are needed to get started: (LEDs) and lasers sought by electronics time, for one, to assess the market, and as a giants. Novagan aims to tap into a whole researcher at EPFL, I could do it; followed new niche. by cutting-edge equipment, which would have been unthinkable on my own, but One of the sectors targeted by Novagan was available in the Lausanne laborato- is perfecting pico-projectors, which are ries; not to mention a network of research- increasingly being integrated into mobile ers, such as the NCCR that is capable of phones. Using laser diodes, current devices developing a product; and finally, finan- can project pictures onto all kinds of cial backing”, (Feltin was awarded an EPFL Fertile ground for young firms surfaces. However they are hindered by Innogrant as well as government support). flickering. “We aim to use laser beams with a broad emission spectrum, generated by For all that this is worth to the start-up, unique semi-conductor materials. None- the interaction between NCCR and Nova- theless, the light must cover a wide range gan scientists is by no means one-sided. of wavelengths to blue and ultra-violet”, “Working together on ideas that result in explains Eric Feltin, Director of Novagan. practical applications is motivating,” adds Manufacturing materials of this kind is no Nicolas Grandjean, Professor at the EPFL easy task: “You’ve got to find the right mix Laboratory of Advanced Semiconducors

18 19 Fig. 17.1

The NCCR “Trade Regulation” focuses on, among other issues, the functioning of the World Trade Organization (WTO) and particularly, on how trade disputes are settled: for example in the Trade Negotiations Committee (Fig. 16.1). Researchers are also studying the links between food security and climate change in developing countries, for example in the Caucasus, where the population does not benefit equally from international food aid (Fig. 16.2).

Emotions are important to everyday life in Fig. 17.2 society. The NCCR “Affective Sciences” is en- Fig. 16.1 gaged in examining among other issues, how people react to different facial expressions on an avatar face (Fig.�� 17.1).�� To this end, scientists use an electroencephalography (EEG) helmet. Equipped with 256 electrodes, it can Fig. 15.1 Basic research conducted measure the electrical activity of the brains of within the framework of the NCCR the people tested (Fig. 17.2). “Quantum Photonics” leads to the development of new products. The technique of molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) makes it possible to grow the single crystal layers of semiconductor compounds. This technique is used most notably for the manufacture of op- Fig. 16.2 toelectronic components such as laser diodes or quantum cascade lasers.

for Photonics and Electronics – LASPE, and himself involved in the founding of 15. NCCR “Quantum 16. NCCR „Trade 17. NCCR “Affective Novagan. “Collaboration is fixed by con- tract, and, if the fledgling company takes Photonics” Regulation“ Sciences” off, it will sign other commercial contracts with EPFL, which in turn will fund more The NCCR “Quantum Photonics” conducts basic International treaties involving the World Trade The NCCR “Affective Sciences – Emotions in exploratory basic research”. research and seeks potential applications for Organization (WTO) are becoming increasingly Individual Behaviour and Social Processes” quantum physics. The research ranges from the wider in scope, often stretching beyond mere is one of the world’s first interdisciplinary Assured of the growth of his company, Eric physical description of light and its interaction with commercial matters into areas such as climate research networks to examine emotions in a Feltin estimates that the semi-conductor matter, to the use of these concepts in informa- and development policy, migration issues, comprehensive manner. The influence of emo- market for pico-projectors will run to 500 tion and communication technology. One objective human rights and the promotion of innovation. tional factors is becoming increasingly impor- million dollars in 2010. He hopes to get his is the development of new laser sources. These Researchers at the National Centre of Compe- tant in explaining human behaviour: not only slice of the silicon cake. And, six years after are superior to current lasers in terms of wave- tence in Research (NCCR) “Trade Regulation in research, but also in politics and econom- length, spectral properties und pulse duration: one – International Trade: From Fragmentation to ics. Psychologists, neuroscientists, philoso- the creation of Novagan, having realised a example being Quantum Cascade Lasers, which Coherence“ are identifying and analysing these phers, economists, lawyers and anthropologists turnover of several million Swiss francs: are also being used in NASA’s Mars Exploration and other aspects of international trade rela- work together on research on the psychologi- this is a success story that is set to pro- Program. The NCCR “Quantum Photonics” has gen- tionships, in close collaboration with national cal, biological and social mechanisms that pel the spin-off company from behind the erated various spin-off companies and resulted in and international governmental and non-gov- generate and control emotions. They explore shadows into blue laser limelight. a strengthening of quantum photonics. When the ernmental organisations. This enables the the emergence of emotions and feelings, their NCCR “Quantum Photonics” concludes in 2013, development of innovative approaches to the regulation and their social functions. Their find- the established “Swiss Photonics” platform will problem of reconciling different regulations at ings may help to improve physical and mental serve as the first port of call for science, industry, an international level. health, foster well-being in the family and the and the public sector for photonics in Switzerland workplace, and develop skills in the handling of www.nccr-trade.ch emotions. www.nccr-qp.epfl.ch www.affective-sciences.org

20 21 Fig. 19.1 NCCR “Plant Survival”

Fig. 18.2 The NCCR “Quantum Science and Technology” examines the microscopic states of matter that meet the laws of quantum mechanics. On the surface of a semiconductor wafer, an electron has two possibilities (0 and 1) to move from A to B. According to quantum mechanics, this leads to a superposition of states, a particle can be in two places at once. A better understanding of this particular property could in the future allow for a much more efficient processing of data (i.e. quantum computer).

Fig. 19.2 The NCCR “Must” focuses on new experimental methods and theoretical frameworks to explore ultrafast chemical and physical processes at work in the elemen- tary components of matter. The goal is to better understand how changes and structural functions of the molecular components are linked together (Fig. 19.1), how surfaces influence the dynamics of these components, and how electrons are transported in such elements (Fig. 19.2). Fig. 18.2

18. NCCR “QSIT” 19. NCCR “MUST”

The NCCR “QSIT – Quantum Science & Tech- The NCCR “MUST – Molecular Ultrafast Sciences nology” is active in a field which unites the and Technology” opens up new perspectives key discoveries of the 20th century: quantum for the study of molecular systems and time- physics and information theory. In the future, resolved structural investigations in phys- research in this field will strongly influence sci- ics, chemistry and biology. The NCCR “MUST” ence and technology. Potential applications focuses on the multi-disciplinary development are primarily focused in the area of computer of experimental and theoretical tools. Therefore science and sensors. The NCCR “QSIT” takes researchers will investigate chemical reactions a multi-disciplinary approach, combining con- and energy-transfer processes at the atomic and cepts from physics, chemistry, engineering and molecular level, as well as electron and proton computer sciences. Researchers from many transfer processes with ultra-short temporal and Swiss universities and basic researchers from spatial resolution. A deeper understanding of industry work together in the NCCR network. matter at microscopic level is crucial for dealing Their two common goals are to develop applica- with important social challenges such as the tions in the area of quantum computer science quest for alternative energy sources, the syn- and to investigate new paradigms in physical thesis of complex, functional medicines, or the Odour explorers in a cornfield basic research such as the order and states of development of new electronic devices. material. www.nccr-must.ch www.nccr-qsit.ethz.ch

22 23 each NCCR has the freedom to use a small When attacked by pests, maize plants use a scent to call for help from their ene- Fig. 20.1 Researchers in the NCCR mies‘ enemies. Ted Turlings, with his team from the National Centre of Competence part of the long term financial resources “Plant Survival” examine the relation- for studies in which the chances of success ships between plants and insects. in Research (NCCR) “Plant Survival – Plant Survival in Natural and Agricultural Maize emits an odorous substance is uncertain. “It was in such a pilot project that attracts the wasp Campoletis Ecosystems” is trying to find out how best to use this fascinating defence mecha- sonorensis. This wasp lays eggs in that we discovered the maize root signals”, the caterpillar Spodoptera littoralis nism for biological pest control. says Turlings. The astonishing discovery thereby eliminating this corn parasite. has now prompted interest from the agri- Ted Turlings loves maize. Not just because borer larva – a notorious pest – the maize cultural giant Syngenta. The Basel com- it is used to make polenta or popcorn, but uses the scented signal method to attract pany wishes to use the NCCR researchers’ because for him, as a chemical ecologist, tiny worms which destroy the larva. biological pest control method to improve 20. these plants represent a superb object of resistance in genetically modified maize NCCR “Plant Survival” research. It is easy to cultivate, yet corn, High-risk study reaped success varieties. Turlings is extremely pleased though unspectacular, has an astonish- about the interest. Even though his moti- The NCCR “Plant Survival – Plant Survival in Natu- ing secret: it is by no means as helpless as The researchers discovered that numerous vation has always been to conduct high- ral and Agricultural Ecosystems” investigates the you would expect a plant to be. As a young maize varieties from the USA, as a result calibre basic research, seeing his results basic physiological and ecological aspects of plant researcher from the Netherlands, who of many years of cultivation, had lost their put into practice brings enormous satis- survival. The research ranges from the molecu- earned his spurs in the USA, Turlings dis- ability to generate the life-saving scent sig- faction. lar level, through ecosystems, to the landscape covered that maize plants secrete a scent nal. Using genetic engineering they man- level. Besides exploring fundamental physiological when their leaves are attacked by cater- aged to restore this ability to the maize. processes, such as responses to light, researchers also study plant-insect interaction, for example, pillars. This scent attracts parasitic wasps The publication of these findings made the importance of chemical defence compounds which lay their eggs in the caterpillars and headlines worldwide: from Argentina to produced by plants to attract natural enemies of kill them. The maize therefore protects Japan and China. “Without close coopera- pests. Another focus is on invasive plants; the itself with its scented ‘cry for help’. tion with partners both inside and outside NCCR “Plant Survival” aims to explain why these the NCCR, this success would not have alien species are proliferating at the expense of After this discovery, Turlings had his pick been possible”, explains Turlings. Geneti- native species. The NCCR has triggered a reorgani- of universities all over the world. He opted cists at the Max Planck Institute for Chem- sation of biological research at the University of for Switzerland, because “it was the best ical Ecology in Jena, for instance, were Neuchâtel. It has also contributed to the establish- offer”, as he puts it. He spent the first responsible for fine-tuning the genetic ment of a nationwide research network in the field three years conducting research at ETH engineering and, thanks to agricultural of plant science. Zurich, then he moved to Neuchâtel, scientists from the University of Missouri where he currently manages the NCCR and the CABI Bioscience Research Insti- www.unine.ch/plantsurvival “Plant Survival”. In the NCCR Turlings tute in Delsberg, field trials were possible and his team discovered that the maize in the USA and Hungary. also emits scent signals into the ground. The NCCR, as a funding instrument, played If its roots are nibbled at by the maize root a crucial role: because the management of

24 25 Fig. 21.1

In collaboration with other organs and systems, the kidneys ensure the dynamic balance of body fluids Fig. 24.1 The images show the brain structures of people (homeostasis). They are therefore Fig. 22.1 Transport proteins play a Fig. 23.1 who are still healthy. These essential for the regulation of blood critical role in the physiological proc- individuals however, are from pressure (��Fig. 21.1)�� and the mainte- esses of the human body. One of the families in which other mem- nance of many other organ functions. objectives of the NCCR “TransCure” bers suffer from Huntington’s is the correction of pathological This microscopic slice of a mouse’s disease. The yellow areas dysfunctions of these proteins with healthy kidney where specific show signs of brain atrophy specific chemical ligands. proteins are stained with fluores- in the locations usually most cent antibodies, provides important affected by the disease. In the information (Fig. 21.2). presence of certain indicators Much progress is still required (biomarkers), imaging allows before robots play a role in early detection. everyday life. The NCCR “Robot- ics” is interested in whether, in the future, robots will be able to learn like humans (Fig. 23.1). If so, they could be used in res- cue operations. The minirobots slide under the prone body of a victim in a fire and move him out of the danger zone (Fig. 23.2).

Fig. 21.2 Fig. 23.2

21. NCCR “Kidney.CH” 22. NCCR “TransCure” 23. NCCR “Robotics” 24. NCCR “SYNAPSY”

The NCCR “Kidney.CH – Kidney Control of The NCCR “TransCure – From Transport Physi- The NCCR “Robotics – Intelligent Robots for The NCCR “SYNAPSY – Synaptic Bases of Men- Homeostasis” is the world’s first research net- ology to Identification of Therapeutic Targets” Improving the Quality of Life” encompasses a tal Diseases” aims to discover the neurobio- work to explore the physiological processes in seeks to integrate the disciplines of physiology, promising field of engineering which aims at logical mechanisms of mental and cognitive healthy and diseased kidneys across a broad structural biology and chemistry and to develop developing new, human-oriented robotic tech- disorders, since one of the major challenges in thematic spectrum. The aim is to seek insights new therapeutic strategies for treating the most nology. In the near future, intelligent robots will psychiatry is to achieve a better understand- for new preventive, diagnostic and therapeu- important diseases. Transport proteins and ion play an important role in improving quality of ing of how these illnesses originate. It is hoped tic approaches to treating kidney patients. The channels play a key role in all physiological life. For example, “care robots” will help elderly that this research will lead to the development motivation being that kidney diseases have processes in the human body. Malfunctions in people to stay in their familiar surroundings of improved diagnostic tools and therapeutic increased dramatically in recent years. Patients these proteins may contribute to the occurrence longer; “neuroprosthetic” and “exoprosthetic” approaches. The NCCR “SYNAPSY” focuses on with chronic kidney diseases risk exposure to of diseases like diabetes, high blood pressure, robots will increase the mobility and autonomy the interface between preclinical research and further secondary diseases such as high blood osteoporosis and neuro-degeneration, and play of disabled persons; “educational robots” will clinical development, combining neuroscience pressure or osteoporosis. Reduced kidney func- a role in heart disease and cancers. The NCCR support the training of a new generation of with psychiatry. This research focus will help tion has drastic consequences for the body as “TransCure” researchers aim to achieve a more scientists and engineers; and “environmental train a new generation of psychiatrists, who the kidneys are responsible for maintaining the profound understanding of the structures and robots” will keep our world cleaner and safer. In will possess both high clinical expertise and a balance between the most varied of substances mechanisms of these proteins. By broaden- order to progress towards this vision, the NCCR sound knowledge of the basic neurobiological in the body (homeostasis). Homeostasis is of ing their knowledge of how transport proteins “Robotics” is working towards developing fun- aspects of mental functions and dysfunctions. central importance to body functions and thus a and channels work, they hope to develop new damental insights in terms of technology, mate- healthy life. medicines. rials and control mechanisms. www.nccr-synapsy.ch

www.nccr-kidney.ch www.transcure.org www.nccr-robotics.ch

26 27 NCCR “Democracy”

How democratic is a country? This type of question is answered by a measuring instrument developed in the National Centre of Competence in Research “Chal- lenges to Democracy in the 21st Century” (NCCR “Democracy”). The basic idea is that a democracy only functions if the principles of equality, freedom and democratic control exist in a balanced relationship to one another. An interview with the project manager, political scientist Marc Bühlmann:

Mr Bühlmann, your democracy barometer works our project. The democracy barometer with an ingenious set of functions, components is a good way of showing what constitutes and indicators. What do you measure with it? a democracy, how a democracy changes The variations in democratic quality with- and where it might be jeopardised. As in and between established democra- researchers, we were required both to cies: we compare constitutions, but also work scientifically and to take care of pub- constitutional reality. In Italy, for exam- lic relations. We tried to make our work ple, the constitution scarcely changed at easy to understand while still observing all under Silvio Berlusconi between 2000 scientificallycorrect procedures. That was and 2005, yet the constitutional reality a great challenge. What is unique about the did. For instance, confidence in the judici- NCCR for the researchers, is the long-term ary decreased since Berlusconi, reinforced financing: it is necessary to take this long- by the media, led a campaign against the term view in order to develop a working judges and made the courts look ridiculous. instrument like the democracy barometer. This loss of confidence by the population can be measured with the help of vari- Your results suggest that good democracies ous indicators. Another area of research is achieve more than poor ones; in dealing with public articulation, where one of the things economic crises, for example. we measure is the independence of the Yes, there is some indication of this. We media from the government. The extent to attempted to illustrate this using the which the political elite is controlled by the dot-com crisis of 2000 as an example. public, and therefore also via the media, is There are countries in which democratic a key quality characteristic of a democracy. quality clearly declined as a result of If the media loses its independence, it can this crisis. Yet it didn’t happen every- cause serious problems. This was, and still where! Certain democracies actually is, the case in Italy under Berlusconi. emerged even stronger from the crisis: The quality of democracies put to for example Denmark, which endeavours Why was your project conducted as part of the to incorporate as many interests as pos- the scientific test NCCR “Democracy”? What are the strengths of sible, on an equal basis, into its political a National Centre of Competence in Research in decision-making processes. Democracy this type of research? works in these countries thanks to the The challenge of the NCCR “Democracy” is population’s increased willingness to see not only to conduct research, but to give through even stringent reforms. In Den- the public access to the knowledge as well. mark, reform of the labour market laws This is precisely what we are doing with was a success provoked by the dot-com

28 29 NCCR “LIVES” – Overcoming Vulnerability: Life Course Perspectives examines the factors that promote Fig. 27.1 long-term development of health, social or psy- chological vulnerability. In Switzerland, the integration of men and women in Fig. 26.1 the labour market is very different. While men (Fig. 100% 26.1) make100% the transition from training to work full- 80% time without80% interruption, the professional biography of women (Fig. 26.2) 60% 60% meanders greatly.

40% 40%

20% 20%

100% 100%

100% 100% Age 0 4 8 12 16 20 24 28 32 36 40 44 0 4 8 12 16 20 24 28 32 36 40 44 80% 80%

80% 80% 60% 60% The NCCR “Chemical Biology” Fig. 26.2 develops methods to better visu- 60% 60% 100% alize and influence the biological 40% 100% 40% 100% 100% Education processes at work in molecules. crisis. Similar reforms were attempted in 40% Here, for example the structure 40% 80% 80% 20% 100% 80% 20% 100% 80% Part time of a new class of peptides that Portugal, yet failed; additional factors cer- has been developed to monitor 20% Full time 20% 60% the activity of protein molecules tainly played a role there. The idea of the 60% 80% 60% 80% 60% employment (Fig. 27.1). democracy barometer, with its fine meas- 0 4 8 12 16 20 24 28 32 36 40 44 0 4 8 12 16 20 24 28 32 36 40 44At home 40% 40% 60% 40% 60% 40% Another example is the growth of urement criteria, is to explain precisely 0 4 8 12 16 20 24 28 32 36 40 44 0 4 8 12 16 20 24 28 32 36 40 44 the cell wall of budding yeast. The 20% image (Fig. 27.2) was obtained these things and on this basis, to suggest 20% 40% 20% 40% 20% through chemical marking of proteins with fluorescent probes and improvements in the workings of democ- Fig. 27.2 Fig. 25.1 20%A “show of hands” at 20% then analyzed with a fluorescence racy. 0 4 8 12 16 20 24 28 32 36 40 44 the Landsgemeinde0 4 8 12 16 (gathering20 24 28 32 36 40 44 Age 0 4 8 12 16 20 24 28 32 36 40 440 4 8 12 16 20 24 28 32 36 40 44 microscope. of the electorates) in the Canton

of Glarus: the oldest form of 0 4 8 12 16 20 24 28 32 36 40 44 In 2005, the quality of Swiss democracy ranked direct democracy0 and4 8one12 of 16the 20 24 28 32 36 40 44 as only average in comparison with the 30 many opportunities for political participation in Switzerland. The countries studied. Why was that? results of the NCCR “Democ- racy”, however, show that these Although Switzerland has many possi- opportunities are used in a very bilities for participation, the population inequitable manner overall. takes scant – and above all – highly une- 27. NCCR “Chemical qual advantage of these. Those who par- 25. NCCR “Democracy” 26. NCCR “LIVES” Biology” ticipate in political life tend to be wealthy, well educated, and – first and foremost – male. There are also structural minorities The NCCR “Democracy – Challenges to Democracy The NCCR “LIVES – Overcoming Vulnerability: The NCCR “Chemical Biology – Visualising and in the 21st Century” explores how democracy devel- Life Course Perspectives” analyzes the burden- Controlling Biological Processes using Chemis- that remain entirely excluded. This is not ops in the current conditions created by globalisa- some effects of post-industrial economies and try” employs chemistry tools to obtain a better the case in other countries. One quarter of tion and mediatisation. On the one hand, decision societies on the development of vulnerability understanding of life at the molecular level. the population capable of voting in Swit- structures at nation-state level are being increas- in terms of social exclusion or precariousness. Until now, few technologies could characterise zerland is not actually entitled to do so: ingly called into question in the face of growing It conducts comparative, longitudinal analy- in detail the countless biochemical activities migrants. It is difficult to justify why peo- European integration and globalisation, on the sis to examine the impact of socio-structural that constitute a living cell. In the NCCR “Chemi- ple who live here and – in particular – also other, the media exercise a growing influence on and personal resources on overcoming vulner- cal Biology”, chemists, biochemists, physicists pay taxes, cannot be involved in decisions politics and public debates that are important ability. Hosted by the Universities of Lausanne and cell biologists develop innovative tech- about what happens to their money. aspects of democracies. The NCCR “Democracy” and Geneva, the NCCR brings together national niques based on small molecules and proteins achieves a combination of political, journalism and and international researchers to examine life to obtain new information about cellular proc- communication sciences that is unique in Europe. courses as developmental processes, as out- esses and control them in-situ. The new tools It aims to develop proposals for improving political comes of institutional regulation and policies, will be applicable to various biological phenom- decision-making processes, political education and or as biographical meanings. The Life trajectories ena like visualising the activity of selected pro- the quality of media reporting. The NCCR launched of about 25’000 people will be studied across teins during cell division and investigating how the Centre for Democracy in Aarau. health, family, work, and institutional domains membranes control the activity of the proteins in order to develop innovative social policy within them. The NCCR is also engaged in estab- www.nccr-democracy.uzh.ch measures. lishing a platform for chemical screening aimed at developing a new generation of molecules www.lives-nccr.ch with biological effects.

www.nccr-chembio.ch

30 31 Publisher Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) Wildhainweg 3 PO Box 8232 CH - 3001 Bern Phone: +41 (0)31 308 22 22 Fax: +41 (0)31 301 30 09 E-mail: [email protected] www.snsf.ch

Concept and Production Press and Information Office, Philippe Trinchan (Head)

Project Management Meuli Kommunikation and kong. funktion gestaltung, Biel

Editing Meuli Kommunikation, Biel Regine Duda and Philippe Trinchan, Press and Information Office Division Targeted Research of the SNSF Other authors: Simone Schmid, Pierre Yves Frei, Simon Köchlin, Olivier Dessibourg

Visual Design and Layout kong. funktion gestaltung, Biel

Printing and Equipment witschidruck, Nidau

Paper Cover: Presto Silk, white, 200 gm2 Content: Presto Silk, white, 135 gm2

Further information This brochure is also available in French and German. Additional copies can be ordered through the publisher (see above) free of charge. The SNSF publishes an annual NCCR-guide in English. The free publication contains a short summary of all National Centres of Competence in Research, updated contact addresses as well as information on subprojects and researchers. To order: see address of publisher

32 Swiss National Science Foundation Wildhainweg 3 The National Centres of Competence PO Box 8232 CH - 3001 Berne in Research NCCR Phone: +41 (0)31 308 22 22 Cutting Edge Research Made in Switzerland Fax: +41 (0)31 301 30 09 E-mail: [email protected] www.snsf.ch