The Institute for the Science of the Aging Brain (ISAB) officially opened in St. Gallen on 9 September 2026. Led by Prof. Adriano Aguzzi, the new research institute focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms behind brain aging and neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and prion diseases. By combining molecular biology, neuroscience, genomics and translational medicine, ISAB aims to develop new approaches to prevention, diagnosis and treatment.
The institute will work closely with partners from research, healthcare and industry, including HOCH Health Ostschweiz and Empa St. Gallen. These collaborations will help connect basic research with clinical practice and innovation while supporting scientific talent and the development of new spin-offs and biotechnology companies. The Canton of St. Gallen is supporting the establishment and operation of ISAB with CHF 1.25 million in seed funding between 2026 and 2030.
At Switzerland Innovation Park Ost, ISAB will occupy around 500 m² of purpose-built BSL-2 laboratory and office space. A new Co-Lab will also give visiting researchers and startups access to workspaces and research infrastructure. The institute adds new biomedical research capabilities to the Park’s growing ecosystem and strengthens St. Gallen as a location for life sciences research and innovation.
