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New IASC Leadership: Gabriela Schaepman-Strub Elected as Vice-President
Prof. Dr. Gabriela Schaepman-Strub has been elected Vice President of the International Arctic Science Committee (IASC) for the 2025–2029 term. With 25 member countries, the IASC plays a key role in coordinating Arctic research worldwide — and Switzerland is right at the heart of it. Gabriela Schaepman-Strub’s election recognizes her scientific leadership and her commitment to understanding one of the fastest-changing regions on the planet. (Photo: Copyright: IASC)
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The emergence of eukaryotes as an evolutionary algorithmic phase transition
A recent paper by Jordi Bascompte published in PNAS has shown how the eukaryotic cell emerged as a compromise between a conserved process of gene growth and a change in genetic regulation.
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The devastating impact of humans on biodiversity
Not only are the numbers of species declining, but the composition of species communities is also changing. This is shown by a new study published in the journal “Nature”.
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Understanding how molecules and ecosystems interact
Erika Freeman et al. have published an important paper in TREE, one of the most prominent journals in Ecology and Evolution.
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"The unique biodiversity of groundwater needs more attention"
Florian Altermatt and Roman Alther (Eawag) have authored a Carte Blanche for the SCNAT.
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How do we save our biodiversity?
Florian Altermatt was interviewed by the Blick science podcast (‘Durchblick’) on the subject of biodiversity.
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Join Our New DEBES Writing Club!
Every Friday from 8:30 AM – 11:30 AM (Illustration: Reiko Akiyama)
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Rapidly Increasing Industrial Activities in the Arctic
More than 800,000 km2 of the Arctic were affected by human activity in 2013, according to an analysis of satellite-derived data on artificial light at night. On average, 85% of the light-polluted areas are due to industrial activities rather than urban development. According to the international team led by UZH researchers, the results are crucial for sustainable development and nature conservation in this highly vulnerable region.
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Reducing Herbivore Damage Using Biodiversity Instead of Insecticide
Pesticides aren’t always necessary: researchers at the University of Zurich have conducted a comprehensive field study showing that damage from herbivores can be reduced by using biodiversity within a plant species.
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Colorful Traits in Primates Ease Tensions Between Groups
Primate ornamentation plays a crucial role in communication not only within social groups but also between them, according to a new study. The research reveals that the males of species with overlapping home ranges often display vibrant colors or elaborate features, traits that may help reduce intergroup aggression by enabling quick assessments of potential rivals. (Photo: istock/ryasick)
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BBC Podcast "The Conversation" with Prof. Marta Manser as Guest
Datshiane Navanayagam speaks with Prof. Marta Manser at the BBC show "The Conversation" about meerkat vocalization, social structures, and group coordination. "The Conversation" focuses on two women from different parts of the world, united by a common passion, experience or expertise, share the stories of their lives.
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“UZH is a leader in evolutionary biology research”
The URPP Evolution in Action program at UZH investigates how organisms and pathogens evolve and adapt to their environment, showcasing the university's research excellence in evolutionary biology by revealing genetic processes of speciation. Kentaro Shimizu points to the plant Cardamine amara, a precursor of the newly discovered species Cardamine insueta. (Picture: Hiroto Kawabata)
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Biodiversity Master's starts for the first time in fall
Last fall, UZH introduced the new "Biodiversity" study program in German-speaking countries. After a successful Bachelor's start with over 140 students, the Master's program will begin for the first time this fall semester.
