The problems that fascinate us on a daily basis
applied
microbiology
research
lab
Our lab works towards a systems understanding of pathogen transmission: integrating host, pathogen and environmental aspects.
We combine patient cohorts with novel technologies to have an innovative translational research setting. In vitro and in vivo data is further used in computational models.
Our newest Blog-Posts
Lab Retreat 2026 🏞️
We had a wonderful two days at our lab retreat in Unterägeri, bringing our team together for inspiring discussions, interactive workshops and opportunities to learn from one another.
From exploring AI in microbiology and biobanking to sharing research expertise, discussing career perspectives, and reflecting on communication, collaboration and well-being, the retreat was a valuable opportunity to exchange ideas and strengthen our team spirit.
The retreat was a great reminder that strong science grows not only from individual expertise, but also from collaboration, curiosity and a supportive team culture. 🧬🔬🤝
New faces in October and November 🍂
Apart from autumn storms and golden leaves, we also got some new faces to the group in these months:
- Eleonora Maccanelli started her MSc thesis with Zoey on the Capnocytophaga project
- Lars Binder returns and joins us as a Medical Informatics Specialist for one year
- Simge joins us as an Data Engineer with Lars
- Hrant Hovhannisyan joins us as a dry lab PostDoc
Welcome (back) and we wish you a great start!
First Swiss–Australian Partnership delegation visit in Zurich
We were delighted to welcome colleagues from the University of Melbourne to Zurich for the first Swiss–Australian Partnership delegation visit.
Over several busy and inspiring days, researchers from Melbourne and the University of Zurich came together for workshops, discussions and plenty of informal exchange. The visit sparked new connections, exciting ideas for joint projects, and concrete opportunities for future collaboration, mobility and training.
Most importantly, it was a great start to what we hope will become a strong and lasting partnership. We are already looking forward to continuing the conversations — and to meeting again in Melbourne!
Sustainability Grant ♻️
We are thrilled to share that our Applied Microbiology Research (AMR) group has been awarded the 2026 Sustainability Grant by the UZH Faculty of Medicine for our new project, "LEAF-Forward IMM" By implementing the Laboratory Efficiency Assessment Framework (LEAF), we will reduce our energy consumption, optimize sample management, and minimize plastic waste to achieve LEAF Bronze and Silver certification. Ultimately, this pilot project will produce a practical implementation guide to help other research groups across the IMM and Faculty of Medicine transition toward sustainable laboratory practices.