SCIENCE. INDUSTRY. IMPACT.

Swisspod is working with EPFL on the development of the Hyperloop system and is using a 120-meter-long test track on the EPFL campus. The partnership is testing key technologies such as linear induction motors, vacuum technologies and capsule design. In 2024, a world record was set for the longest Hyperloop test run, at 488.2 km/h. Through this collaboration, innovative solutions for high-speed traffic, high-speed communication and efficient transportation methods are being developed.

The EPFL Robotics Center is developing high-tech drones such as RAVEN with bird-inspired mechanics for autonomous jumping, running and take-off in difficult terrain. Other projects include foldable drones for confined spaces and autonomous swarms with visual navigation and AI. The aim is to use robotic agility and autonomous decision-making logic in rescue, environmental monitoring and hard-to-reach areas.

The EPFL Space Center (eSpace) promotes the space economy through projects such as ClearSpace (space debris disposal), Astrocast (IoT satellites) and the Sustainable Space Hub (life cycle analysis, orbital logistics). SXS connects Swiss companies with ESA, strengthens new space start-ups, supports ESA tenders and the transfer of space technologies to industry, energy, agriculture and telecommunications.

The EPFL Space Center (eSpace) and SXS are driving Swiss satellite development forward: ClearSpace-1 works on removing space debris, SwissCube tests miniature technologies in orbit, and Astrocast uses nanosatellites for global IoT communication. SXS networks research and industry, supports ESA tenders and promotes technologies such as miniature propulsion systems, onboard processing and sustainable orbit strategies.

The Robotics Center at EPFL Lausanne is developing advanced VTOL (Vertical Take-Off and Landing) drones inspired by biomimetic flight mechanics. The focus is on autonomous navigation systems, swarm intelligence and energy efficiency. Technologies such as modular propulsion systems, lightweight materials and intelligent control systems enable precise, flexible and energy-efficient drone operations.

The EPFL Transportation Center develops AI-based systems for autonomous driving: multi-agent deep learning for predicting the behaviour of road users, adaptive autonomy models for dynamic decision-making processes in variable conditions and edge computing-supported route optimization. Projects such as autonomous shuttles use real-time data, V2X communication and cloud-based fleet control.

The EPFL Space Center, SXS and the Imaging Center combine satellite remote sensing, hyperspectral imaging, drone data and geospatial analysis to monitor environmental changes. Projects such as SOLVE use mini-satellites for real-time analysis of water and air quality. The Imaging Center integrates multi-sensor technology and AI to evaluate complex geodata for climate, environmental and security applications.

The Sensor Hub at EPFL focuses on the development of advanced sensor technologies, including MEMS, optical sensors, RF/microwave sensors and IoT-based systems. It promotes interdisciplinary research and collaborations with industry, especially in the field of wireless networks, data integration and sensor networks. The hub supports innovative start-ups and technologies such as photonic sensors for anomaly detection and predictive maintenance.

EPFL conducts cutting-edge research in advanced metrology, including in the Nanophotonics and Metrology Lab (optical metasurfaces, biosensor technology), CASA (isotopic surface analysis with SIMS, NanoSIMS), TOPO (geodetic precision measurement), RGL (material analysis, spectral BRDF/BSDF) and CMi (high-resolution SEM/FIB/EDX metrology). These laboratories demonstrate the diversity of EPFL metrology research with a focus on fundamentals and industrial applications.

The Center for Quantum Science and Engineering (QSE) at EPFL Lausanne conducts research into quantum computing, quantum hardware and quantum algorithms. The focus is on hybrid quantum-classical algorithms, superconducting circuits, ultracold atoms and nanofabricated systems. The center develops precision measuring devices, quantum communication and new quantum materials and promotes innovations in cooperation with leading companies in the quantum field.

The Swiss Plasma Center (SPC) at EPFL is a leader in fusion research and develops technologies to control plasma states using artificial intelligence, also in collaborations with companies such as DeepMind. EPFL's CROCUS reactor system serves as a teaching and research reactor with a thermal power of 100 W and enables experiments on neutron measurement, thermo-hydraulics and coupling of neutronics and thermodynamics.

The Energy Research Center at EPFL in Lausanne is conducting intensive research into synthetic fuels. The focus is on artificial photosynthesis, the conversion of CO₂ into carbon monoxide, solar-powered hydrogen production and CO₂ utilization. Projects such as the combination of solar energy with hydrogen production and new electrolysis technologies are aimed at developing carbon-neutral fuels for the energy transition.

The Sensor Innovation Hub at EPFL Lausanne develops advanced detector technologies for various fields. These include radiation-resistant detectors for high-energy physics, photonic sensors for medical diagnostics and industry, and smart IoT sensors for wearable devices. It is also working on non-destructive sensors for environmental monitoring that use electromagnetic induction.

EPFL's Center of MicroNanoTechnology (CMi) is a leader in chip manufacturing and lithography. It utilizes technologies such as UV laser direct exposure (MLA-150), precision spin coating (Sawatec SM-200) and controlled clean room environments to develop MEMS, photonics, biochips and quantum components. CMi supports research and industry in high-precision micro and nano manufacturing processes.

The EPFL Center for Imaging develops high-precision multiscale imaging technologies for the analysis of structures from nanoscale to macroscale. It integrates advanced image reconstruction, quantitative analysis, AI-assisted image processing and deep learning (e.g. deepImageJ). The platform supports interdisciplinary research in biomedicine, materials science and more, with a focus on algorithmically optimized imaging.

The Robotics Innovation Center at EPFL Lausanne develops cutting-edge robotic systems with a focus on soft robotics, modular robotics and autonomous systems. It uses AI, sensory feedback and elastomeric materials to create adaptive, safe and reconfigurable robots. Applications range from industrial automation to rehabilitation robotics and autonomous exploration systems and agritech.

The Laboratory for Advanced Fabrication Technologies (LAFT) at EPFL develops additive manufacturing techniques for microsystems in the fields of energy, microfluidics and medical technology. It combines additive manufacturing with nanotechnology to produce innovative electrochemical and photoelectrochemical devices. The lab uses high-precision 3D printing systems to produce complex, functional microsystems for aerospace and medical applications.

The Center of MicroNanoTechnology (CMi) at EPFL Lausanne is a high-tech hub for micro- and nanofabrication. With over 150 pieces of equipment in clean rooms, it enables processes such as lithography, plasma etching, ALD, EBEAM, wet chemistry and thin film deposition. It is used for the development of MEMS, nanoparticles, photovoltaic and energy storage materials and supports technology transfer, prototyping and interdisciplinary research.

The Site EPFL Innovation Park drives energy technology innovation through sustainable infrastructure like solar and geothermal energy. It fosters collaborations with startups and companies developing green hydrogen, digital twins, and energy storage solutions. With dedicated spaces and access to EPFL’s labs, it supports projects advancing the energy transition and sustainable, efficient energy systems.

The EPFL Energy Center in Lausanne is a leader in research into energy management and energy storage. It investigates battery storage systems, CO₂ capture, smart grids, and renewable energy and hydrogen. It also focuses on energy policy, life cycle analyses and sustainable energy systems. Through interdisciplinary collaboration with industry and research, it promotes innovative solutions for the energy transition and sustainable energy systems.

EPFL's Building and Construction Research Center focuses on sustainable construction and innovative building materials. It includes projects such as Building2050, which reduces CO₂ emissions, and the Laboratory of Construction Materials, which develops more environmentally friendly concrete solutions. Other research areas include intelligent buildings, new load-bearing structures and sustainable architecture. The center promotes innovation in the construction industry through interdisciplinary collaboration.

The Material Science and Engineering at EPFL Lausanne develops innovative nanostructure materials and functional materials with tailored properties, such as piezoelectric and magnetic materials for sensors. It conducts research into biomaterials for medical technology and optimizes energy conversion and storage materials for solar cells, batteries and supercapacitors. The group also focuses on sustainable, environmentally friendly materials.

EPFL's Health, Science & Technology Hub promotes the development of advanced medical technologies such as wearables, implantable devices, neurotechnological systems and AI-based diagnostic tools. The Hub supports start-ups in the development of point-of-care tests, molecular diagnostics and imaging technologies. Partnerships with the Wyss Center and Hôpitaux Universitaires de Genève (HUG) integrate innovative big data analysis and machine learning in healthcare.

The EPFL Innovation Park supports early and growth-stage start-ups through incubation, acceleration, and international programs. The Swisstech Discovery Program introduces global start-ups and corporates to Switzerland’s innovation ecosystem, while the Soft Landing Program helps them enter the Swiss market with tailored support, workspaces, and local networking.

Site EPFL Innovation Park supports early-stage and growth-stage tech start-ups through tailored incubation and acceleration programs. It offers mentoring, coaching, access to labs, funding support, and business development. Focus areas include deep tech, MedTech, AI, and sustainability - enabling research-driven innovations to scale through strong industry and academic collaboration.

Site EPFL Innovation Park offers flexible office spaces for rent, catering to start-ups, scale-ups, and established companies. Offices range from single desks to larger team spaces, equipped with high-speed internet and modern facilities. Located on the EPFL campus, tenants benefit from a vibrant innovation community, access to meeting rooms, support services, and proximity to research labs and industry partners.

Site EPFL Innovation Park offers modern conference and event spaces for rent, suitable for meetings, workshops, seminars, product launches, and networking events. Facilities range from small meeting rooms to large halls equipped with projectors, sound systems, and video conferencing. Catering and event support are available. Conveniently located on the EPFL campus, the venues provide access to a vibrant innovation community.