23 professors appointed at ETH Zurich and EPFL
Berne/Zurich, 27.05.2016 - Upon application of the President of ETH Zurich, Professor Lino Guzzella, and the President of EPFL, Professor Patrick Aebischer, at its meeting of 25/26 May 2016 the ETH Board appointed a total of 23 professors, awarded the title of professor to 3 individuals and took note of the resignation of 9 professors and thanked them for their services.
Appointments at ETH Zurich
Dr Ueli Angst (*1980), currently a post-doctoral student and lecturer at ETH Zurich as well as a consultant in the private sector, as Assistant Professor of Durability of Engineering Materials. Ueli Angst is a specialist in the durability of reinforced concrete structures – a subject that requires a knowledge of materials science, chemistry, electrochemistry and civil engineering. He soon realised that answers to pressing questions about the durability of infrastructure – from repairing existing structures through to the use of new and unfamiliar cements – can only be obtained using a scientific approach. As an SNSF-funded professor, Ueli Angst will make a substantial contribution to topics of relevance to the economy, such as how to maintain key infrastructure.
Professor Denis Burdakov (*1979), currently Professor at King's College, London, as Full Professor of Neuroscience. Denis Burdakov's research focuses on neural networks and processes that implement efficient and healthy interrelations between behaviour and the environment. He is particularly interested in how the brain processes information in order to control key behaviours – such as eating and sleeping – in an energy-efficient manner. His findings contribute to the treatment of diseases such as obesity and sleep disorders. The appointment of Denis Burdakov greatly enriches a number of different fields of research at ETH Zurich, as well as the collaboration with Zurich University Hospital.
Dr Sebastiano Cantalupo (*1980), currently Senior Assistant at ETH Zurich, as Assistant Professor of Cosmic Structure Formation. Sebastiano Cantalupo's specialist area is structure formation in the early universe. He has set up a highly regarded research programme in which he combines observational projects with numeric simulation and analytical theory. In carrying out his observations he works with some of the world's leading observatories. Sebastian Cantalupo attracted great interest in the international scientific community for his discovery of giant gas structures around high-redshift quasars. Through his SNSF professorship he will ideally complement and strengthen ETH Zurich's work in the fields of cosmology and galaxy formation.
Dr Alessandro Carlotto (*1984), currently Junior Fellow at ETH Zurich, as Assistant Professor of Mathematics. Alessandro Carlotto is a very promising young scientist. His work encompasses differential geometry, nonlinear analysis and mathematical physics. The main focus of his research is on geometric variational problems arising in general relativity and conformal geometry. Alessandro Carlotto's international reputation and commitment to bringing on younger researchers, along with his wide-ranging interests covering diverse areas of mathematics, will make a significant contribution to ETH Zurich.
Dr Nathalie Dubois (*1981), currently Group Leader at Eawag, as Assistant Professor of Paleolimnology. Nathalie Dubois is an internationally recognised expert in lake sediments. She uses sediment cores to reconstruct past environmental conditions. At ETH Zurich her work will focus on the impact of early human activity on the ecosystems of previously uninhabited eastern Pacific islands. The results of her research will help her to draw parallels between past and present climate change, among other things. As an SNSF-funded professor, Nathalie Dubois contributes new research areas and additional expertise to ETH Zurich, and will further enhance the existing collaboration with Eawag in the area of paleolimnology.
Dr Collin Y. Ewald (*1980), currently a post-doctoral student at ETH Zurich, as Assistant Professor of Extracellular Matrix Regeneration. Collin Ewald is an internationally acclaimed researcher in the field of the molecular biology of ageing. Among other things, he has successfully shown that almost all life-extending interventions protect and repair not only the interior of the cell, but also, in an unexpected way, its exterior (the extracellular matrix). His appointment will significantly strengthen fundamental research at ETH Zurich into the important topic of our ageing society / ageing healthily. As an SNSF-funded professor, Collin Ewald's aim will be to find out what impact improving the regeneration of the extracellular matrix has on extending a healthy lifespan.
Mohsen Ghaffari (*1987), currently a doctoral student at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cambridge, USA, as Tenure Track Assistant Professor of Computer Science. Mohsen Ghaffari is a highly promising young scientist who conducts research into theoretical computer science with a focus on distributed computing and network algorithms. He has won several awards for his work, which combines mathematical methods derived from probability theory and graph theory with algorithm design and analysis. His research connects with topics that are already being studied at ETH Zurich, as well as with new areas of research in the field of high volume data processing and social networks. Mohsen Ghaffari's appointment will strengthen the Federal Institute's leading position in these forward-looking subjects.
Professor Manu Kapur (*1974), currently Professor at Hong Kong Institute of Education, China, as Full Professor of Learning Sciences and Higher Education. Manu Kapur has achieved international recognition for his work on learning from mistakes. He has designed innovative mathematics programmes which show students where they have gone wrong, thus enabling them to learn. He has also been able to demonstrate how learning can be unproductive. This occurs when the student gains a superficial understanding with a negative effect on learning over the longer term. Manu Kapur will promote the Higher STEM Education research field and optimise teaching at ETH Zurich in partnership with the other academic staff, building on current scientific knowledge.
Dr Michael Nash (*1982), currently Group Leader in the context of an ETH Zurich’s Branco Weiss Fellowship at Ludwig Maximilian University (LMU), Munich, as Tenure Track Assistant Professor of Engineering of Synthetic Systems. Michael Nash is a scientist with great potential. His research focus lies in the detailed analysis, understanding and development of the molecular mechanisms that regulate the assembly of mechanically robust multi-enzyme complexes. This research orientation makes Michael Nash an excellent fit with the National Centre of Competence in Research "Molecular Systems Engineering", as part of which he will hold a joint professorship of both the University of Basel and ETH Zurich.
Dr Berend Snijder (*1981), currently post-doctoral fellow at the Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna, as Assistant Professor of Molecular Systems Biology. Berend Snijder is a highly innovative researcher. He develops imaging methods for large perturbation experiments on individual cells. His research objectives range from obtaining fundamental insights into cell behaviour through to applications in personalised medicine and developing new drugs. By means of his SNSF professorship, Berend Snijder will drive forward a number of promising research areas in the field of computer-assisted systems analysis of cells and in personalised medicine, thus strengthening ETH Zurich's leading international position in these subjects.
Professor Bruno Studer (*1977),currently SNSF-funded Professor at ETH Zurich, as Associate Professor of Molecular Plant Breeding. Bruno Studer's research focuses on developing breeding processes for forage crops to improve their yield and efficiency. These breeding processes include traditional applications using functional molecular markers as well as new concepts of genomic selection. His findings also help to produce animal products more ecologically and economically. The appointment of Bruno Studer as Associate Professor strengthens ETH Zurich's research into food security, one of its main research focus, and reinforces the collaboration with Agroscope.
Dr Shinichi Sunagawa (*1978), currently Staff Scientist at the European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, as Assistant Professor of Microbiome Research. Shinichi Sunagawa is a highly competent and committed young scientist. He has already carried out pioneering research into highly complex microbial consortia using computer-assisted analysis. In particular, his methods for investigating specific microorganisms by means of large sequence data sets have attracted international attention. Shinichi Sunagawa's combined expertise in the fields of biochemistry and bioinformatics will make an important and promising contribution to the study of life sciences at ETH Zurich – a subject area which has gained an international reputation.
Dr Vincent Tassion (*1986), currently a post-doctoral student at the University of Geneva, as Assistant Professor of Mathematics. Vincent Tassion's area of research covers phase transitions in models of statistical physics – a key topic in probability theory. This work centres around describing and explaining physical and chemical phenomena using discrete models. In recent years, Vincent Tassion has grappled with a number of unanswered questions in this field, including phase transitions for three-dimensional models. He has succeeded in solving problems that had remained open for years. Through his appointment, ETH Zurich is gaining an outstanding young mathematician who will be a great asset to his colleagues and students.
Professor Konrad Tiefenbacher (*1980), currently Junior Professor at the Technical University of Munich, as Tenure Track Assistant Professor of Synthesis of Functional Modules. Konrad Tiefenbacher has gained a reputation as an original and innovative researcher. His specialist area is self-assembled supramolecular capsules as catalytic nanoreactors for chemical transformations. The aims of his research include making the reactors accessible for a broader range of solvents. With his particular strengths in synthetic-organic work, Konrad Tiefenbacher will ideally complement the National Centre of Competence in Research "Molecular Systems Engineering" as a joint professor of the University of Basel and ETH Zurich.
Dr Roy Wagner (*1973), currently Research Fellow at Tel Aviv University, Israel, as Full Professor of History and Philosophy of Mathematical Sciences. Roy Wagner is an internationally acclaimed scientist who – very unusually – has multiple qualifications as a mathematician, philosopher of science and historian of mathematics. He is sought-after for his skills in mediating between the various approaches and methods used in mathematics, engineering, natural sciences and humanities. Roy Wagner is therefore the ideal holder of the newly created chair of History and Philosophy of Mathematical Sciences at ETH Zurich.
Dr Karin Würtz (*1978), currently Senior Assistant and Lecturer at ETH Zurich, as Assistant Professor of Immunoengineering and Regenerative Medicine. Karin Würtz is a globally recognised expert in inflammatory processes in spinal discs and other tissues of the locomotor system. The main goal of her research is to control tissue inflammation using natural and synthetic substances so as to prevent degeneration and encourage regeneration of the organ. By appointing Karin Würtz, who holds an SNSF-funded professorship, ETH Zurich is further enhancing its globally respected research into regenerative medicine and the emerging field of immunoengineering.
Professor Samuel Zeeman (*1970), currently Associate Professor at ETH Zurich, as Full Professor of Plant Biochemistry. Samuel Zeeman has established himself as a leading international expert in the field of starch metabolism in plants. In particular, his research looks at how plants use the primary products of photosynthesis – sugar and starch. His findings have contributed substantially to our understanding of how plants adapt to changing environmental conditions. These results are of exceptional practical relevance and have a part to play in the debate on the food security of future generations. Samuel Zeeman's commitment to teaching also makes an essential contribution to the transfer of knowledge and technology at ETH Zurich.
Dr Oded Zilberberg (*1979), currently a Research Associate in the research centre of a well-known Swiss company, as Assistant Professor of Quantum Condensed Matter Theory. Oded Zilberberg is a versatile researcher whose findings have attracted international attention in his field. His work focuses on coherent quantum phenomena at the interface of solid state physics and quantum optics with the aim of facilitating new applications in sensor technology and information processing. The appointment of Oded Zilberberg, who receives an SNSF-funded professorship, significantly strengthens ETH Zurich's research in the field covered by the National Centre of Competence in Research "Quantum Science and Technology".
Appointments at EPFL
Professor Melanie Blokesch (*1976), currently Tenure Track Assistant Professor at EPFL, as Associate Professor of Life Sciences. Melanie Blokesch conducts research into Vibrio cholerae, the bacterium responsible for cholera. In particular, she investigates how non-pathogenic bacteria can absorb genetic material from the pathogen. Melanie Blokesch, who received an ERC Starting Grant in 2013, has already demonstrated the significance of chitin in this transfer and has identified the relevant molecular processes. Her work has the potential to help improve public health by curbing this disease, which has a devastating effect in many parts of the world.
Dr Annalisa Buffa (*1973), currently Director of the Institute of Applied Mathematics and Information Technology (IMATI) of theNational Research Council in Pavia, as Full Professor of Mathematics. Annalisa Buffa is a leading international expert in the discretisation of partial differential equations. Her achievements in the simulation of electromagnetism and in isogeometric analysis were recognised by the award of an ERC Advanced Grant this year; they are of great practical importance and enablethe development of efficient calculation models for designing electromagnetic equipment. The appointment of Annalisa Buffa will allow EPFL to strengthen and promote its research initiatives in the field of computer sciences.
Professor Xile Hu (*1978), currently Associate Professor at EPFL, as Full Professor of Inorganic Chemistry and Coordination Chemistry. In only a few years, Xile Hu has carved out a leading global position in the fields of bioinorganic chemistry and organometallic catalysis. He heads the Laboratory of Inorganic Synthesis and Catalysis which he set up. He and his team have gained important knowledge of synthetic chemistry and the chemical processes that allow energy to be stored and converted. Thanks to his creative approaches to research and his commitment to teaching, Xile Hu will contribute to strengthening the international reputation of EPFL.
Professor Stéphanie Lacour (*1975), currently Tenure Track Assistant Professor at EPFL, as Associate Professor of Microtechnology and Bioengineering. Stéphanie Lacour works on the development of electronic devices at the interface with human tissue. The aim of her research is to overcome the incompatibility between electronic systems and biological tissue. She has gained international recognition for several of her studies, which include developing a new group of flexible multimodal neuroprostheses and artificial electronic skin which registers movements and pressure. Stéphanie Lacour's work strengthens EPFL's innovative research in the field of bioengineering.
Dr Ulrich Lorenz (*1982), currently SNSF Professor at EPFL, as Tenure Track Assistant Professor of Physical Chemistry. Ulrich Lorenz, who completed his postgraduate studies at EPFL, investigates fluid dynamics and the mechanical properties of nanomaterials. This promising young scientist has demonstrated how high temporal and spatial resolutions can be combined using 4D electron microscopy in order to observe and investigate the mechanical properties of biological nanostructures. The appointment of Ulrich Lorenz enables EPFL to press ahead with developing new applications for 4D electron microscopy and strengthens its international position in the field of physical chemistry.
Award of the title of Professor
Professor Giancarlo Ferrari Trecate (*1970), currently Associate Professor at the University of Pavia, Italy, as Adjunct Professor at EPFL. Giancarlo Ferrari Trecate is a recognised expert in automatic control and hybrid systems. With his knowledge and experience of modelling, analysing and controlling dynamic systems, he will strengthen EPFL's research and application-oriented development in this field.
Dr Ita Heinze-Greenberg (*1956), Senior Scientist and Lecturer at ETH Zurich, as Adjunct Professor at ETH Zurich. Ita Heinze-Greenberg is a globally recognised expert in the architecture of the 19th and 20th centuries. She works at the Institute for the History and Theory of Architecture at ETH Zurich, contributing to its research and teaching in important areas of interest.
Dr Marinella Mazzanti (*1959), currently Senior Scientist at EPFL, as Adjunct Professor at EPFL. Marinella Mazzanti has achieved success in her work on the chemistry of f-block transition elements. Her innovative work on designing new organometallic compounds has the potential to make an important contribution to various technological applications, such as in biomedical imaging.
Departure from ETH Zurich
Professor Savas Tay (*1977), currently Assistant Professor of Bioengineering, will leave ETH Zurich at the end of June 2016. Savas Tay was appointed to ETH Zurich in 2011. His well-regarded research combines the fields of systems biology and microfluidics. Savas Tay has made an important contribution to the development of teaching at the interface of technology and biology, not least by designing a unique course on optofluidics and biosystems analysis. He is leaving ETH Zurich in order to take up an appointment at another university.
Departures from EPFL
Professor Dominique Bonvin (*1952), currently Full Professor of Automatic Control, is to retire at the beginning of August 2017. Dominique Bonvin was appointed as an Associate Professor at EPFL in 1989 and promoted to Full Professor in 1992. He has achieved success in the modelling, identification and optimisation of dynamic systems. His findings allow optimisation problems to be solved in real time, and are used to control manufacturing processes. He has led many international multidisciplinary projects, working closely with industry. In both research and teaching, Dominique Bonvin has strengthened the position of EPFL through industrial partnerships and by training engineers.
Professor André-Gilles Dumont (*1951), currently Full Professor of Traffic Facilities, will retire at the beginning of September 2016. André-Gilles Dumont began working at the Traffic Facilities Laboratory (LAVOC) in 1979. He became head of the laboratory in 1991. His research projects cover, among other topics, the polymerisation of modified granular and bituminous materials, road modelling and the computer-assisted development of road projects. Alongside his commitment to research and teaching, André-Gilles Dumont has also served on numerous committees, including chairing several committees of the Swiss Association of Road and Traffic Professionals (VSS), as well as on the extraparliamentary commission on road research.
Professor Bernard Moret (*1953), currently Full Professor of Computer Science, is to take early retirement at the beginning of January 2017. Bernard Moret was appointed as a Full Professor at EPFL in 2006. His research focuses on the design and optimisation of high-performance algorithms, especially for applications in computer-assisted molecular biology and bioinformatics. During his career he has served on numerous academic committees, including as Director of CIPRES, a joint project for constructing a cyber infrastructure for phylogenetic research. Bernard Moret was Director of the Department of Computer Science from 2009 to 2014, and a member of the Board of Management of the School of Computer and Communication Sciences from 2013 to 2016.
Professor Juan Ramon Mosig (*1951), currently Full Professor of Electrical Engineering, will retire at the beginning of March 2017. Juan Ramon Mosig joined EPFL in 1991 as an Adjunct Professor and was promoted to Full Professor in 2009. He has achieved a leading international position for his research on electromagnetic theory, antenna design and numerical modelling. His knowledge of mathematical models is in demand throughout the world, and he has collaborated on international projects with renowned institutions such as the European Space Agency (ESA). He has served as an expert on numerous commissions, including as a member of the Federal Commission for Space Affairs. Juan Ramon Mosig helped found EPFL's Space Center, as well as two start-ups, and is also a dedicated teacher.
Professor Peter Ryser (*1951), currently Associate Professor of Microtechnical Manufacturing, is to retire at the beginning of August 2016. Peter Ryser was appointed to EPFL in 1998, at which time he became head of the Laboratory of Microengineering for Manufacturing. His research has focused on thick film technology and product design. He combines theoretical modelling with industrial experience and understands how to strengthen collaboration between science and industry. Numerous partnerships with companies from Switzerland, Europe and the USA have arisen out of this work. Peter Ryser has also supported several start-ups.
Professor Nava Setter (*1949), currently Full Professor of Materials Science, will retire at the beginning of October 2016. Nava Setter was appointed to EPFL in 1989 and became a Full Professor in 1992. As head of the Ceramics Laboratory, she conducted research into ceramic materials, with particular emphasis on the properties and structures of ferroelectric and piezoelectric elements. She has achieved global recognition for her work, which combines fundamental and applied research. In addition to her research, Nava Setter has served on academic committees and supported teaching in the field of materials technology. Her contract has been extended beyond the usual retirement age to allow her to complete a research project which was awarded an ERC Advanced Grant.
Professor Alessandro Spadoni (*1978), currently Tenure Track Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering, will leave EPFL on 1 July 2016. Alessandro Spadoni was appointed to his present post in 2011. He specialises in investigating the topological nature of the structures of metamaterials.
Professor John Thome (*1953), currently Full Professor of Heat and Mass Transfer, is to retire on 1 August 2018. John Thome joined EPFL in 1998. His research has focused on the mechanics of two-phase flow and micro-scale and macro-scale heat transfer. He is director of the Laboratory of Heat and Mass Transfer, which has gained global recognition, particularly for developing advanced models of heat transport. These models are now widely used in industry, such as in refrigeration units, air conditioning systems and in the nuclear sector. Through his research and commitment to teaching, John Thome has made a substantial contribution to the development and international positioning of EPFL.
The ETH Board would like to thank the departing professors for their services to science, teaching and academic administration.
Address for enquiries
Michael Käppeli
Executive Director of the ETH Board
Häldeliweg 15, CH-8092 Zürich
michael.kaeppeli@ethrat.ch
+41 44 632 47 60
Publisher
Board of the Swiss Federal Institutes of Technology
https://www.ethrat.ch/en
