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swissnex: Switzerland’s Knowledge Network

swissnexDay 09, 10.12.2009 - ZHAW Zurich University
of Applied Sciences in Winterthur
 

 

swissnex: Switzerland’s Knowledge Network

swissnex is a network of science and technology outposts run by the Swiss State Secretariat for Education and Research (SER), in close cooperation with the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA).

The SER currently handles four knowledge outposts: swissnex Boston (2000), swissnex San Francisco (2003), swissnex Singapore (2004) and swissnex Shanghai (2007). swissnex Bangalore is planned for 2009.

swissnex is a key component of the Swiss strategic policy on the promotion of education, research and innovation set by the Federal Council. Apart from Europe the U.S, India, China, Russia and South Africa are priority countries for bilateral cooperation given their proven potential for scientific and technological development. Brazil, Chile, Japan and South Korea will get special attention as well.

Initially the main funder of swissnex, the SER used to cover most of the start-up, running and core project costs. Since 2003, the network has relied on public and private funding (one-third SER, two-thirds from other sources). swissnex is now dedicated to expanding the group of sponsors and donors willing to support services, activities and events.

SER also maintains and develops a worldwide network of science & technology counselors (STC) sharing swissnex mission. Initiated in 1958, it is run in collaboration with the FDFA. For the moment, twelve STC work at selected Swiss Embassies.

swissnex' mission is:

  • to strengthen Switzerland's excellence as a location for science, technology and innovation
  • to set up and maintain a dense network of contacts with universities, research institutions, companies and other organizations in the host region and in Switzerland, as well as to support Swiss scientists in the host regions
  • to structure, strengthen and promote the interests of Switzerland, the presence of Swiss research, technology and know-how in each host region; swissnex gives consideration to all scientific and technological domains (exact and natural sciences, technical sciences, life sciences, human and social sciences). Particular attention is given to integrated and cross-disciplinary approaches in the domains of education, research, technology and innovation, the economy and the arts
  • to support the internationalization efforts of Swiss institutions in the host regions
  • to coordinate the network of partner institutions and researchers with a view to the development of a tradition of scientific and technological exchange; initiation and implementation of projects promoted with SER funds is encouraged
  • to strengthen brand building and public relations in the host regions as well as media coverage in Switzerland
  • to help structure, implement and extend bilateral research cooperation programs, where such programs exist