The Paul Scherrer Institute PSI is the largest research institute for natural sciences and engineering in Switzerland. As part of the ETH Domain, PSI conducts cutting-edge research in future technologies, energy and climate, health innovation, and the fundamentals of nature.
With around 2,300 employees and an annual budget of approximately CHF 460 million, PSI is a central pillar of the Swiss research landscape and an important location for large-scale scientific infrastructure.
Large Research Facilities
PSI develops, builds, and operates complex large research facilities. These facilities are used by researchers from Switzerland and around the world, as well as by industry. Around 3,000 guest researchers use PSI’s research facilities each year.
Innovation and Knowledge Transfer
PSI strengthens Switzerland as a research and innovation location. Companies benefit from collaboration with PSI, use its unique research infrastructure, and apply PSI research results in new technologies and practical applications.
Through cooperation with industry and the creation of spin-offs, PSI contributes to innovation and technology transfer in Switzerland and beyond.
Training the Next Generation
PSI provides a dynamic research environment for early-career scientists and technical specialists. Around a quarter of PSI employees are postdoctoral researchers, doctoral students, or apprentices.
Health Innovation
PSI operates the only facility in Switzerland for the treatment of specific cancers with protons. This highly targeted form of therapy can destroy tumors while largely sparing the surrounding tissue.
Energy and Climate
Climate change is one of the greatest challenges of our time. Switzerland aims to be climate-neutral by 2050 – in other words, not to emit more greenhouse gases than can be absorbed naturally or by technical means. This calls on us to rethink our energy production and use – away from fossil fuels and towards climate-neutral energy sources. How can Switzerland become fit for a climate-neutral energy future? Researchers at PSI are looking for answers.
