How AI and quantum technology are transforming pharmaceutical research in Switzerland – insights from the SATW Annual Congress

The SATW Annual Congress 2025 offered exciting insights into the future of health research. On 27 May in Muttenz, around 200 participants from science, industry, politics and society discussed the potential of AI and quantum technology for the pharmaceutical industry – from molecular simulation to personalised therapy.

Whether in research, industry or regulation, the congress clearly demonstrated how strongly Switzerland is already committed to these key technologies – and the opportunities and challenges that this entails.

 

Highlights of the programme

After welcoming remarks by SATW President Benoît Dubuis and Falko Schlottig, Director of the FHNW School of Life Sciences, exciting presentations were given by international experts:

  • Prof. Jian-Wei Pan (USTC, China) presented examples of satellite-based quantum communication.
  • Dr Alessandro Curioni (IBM Research Zurich) showed how quantum technology can address key problems in pharmaceutical research.
  • Annalisa Pawlosky (Google) gave a clear explanation of the basics of quantum computing. She emphasised the great potential of this technology, but also pointed out the challenges that remain in terms of scaling and widespread application.
  • In the subsequent panel discussion, representatives from Google, FHNW, the Swiss Quantum Initiative and QuantumBasel discussed opportunities and challenges for Switzerland in the global competition for quantum computing.

Tech Fair: Innovations you can touch

Parallel to the conference, 20 companies, start-ups and research institutions presented their latest applications in AI and quantum research at the Tech Fair. Visitors gained practical insights into how quantum computers work, random number generators based on quantum physics effects, and photonic integrated circuits for connecting data centres.

‘I was really surprised by the audience – so lively and dynamic! There were people from all sorts of backgrounds, and I thoroughly enjoyed interacting with them.’

Carmela Pietropaolo, University of Basel / NCCR SPIN

Focus on Switzerland: competitiveness and responsibility

Another highlight was the roundtable discussion on Switzerland's competitiveness, led by SATW President Benoît Dubuis.
Participants included:

  • Dr Alessandro Curioni (IBM)
  • Jean-Philippe Fricker (Cerebras Systems)
  • Prof. Stefan Palzer (Nestlé)
  • Prof. Falko Schlottig (FHNW School of Life Sciences)
  • Markus Simmen (Brütsch Elektronik AG)

 

"Although the topic of quantum computing seemed abstract and difficult to grasp at first, I was deeply impressed by what is already possible today – and by the passion with which people are working on the future."

Christian Vils, Engineers’ Day

Conclusion: Technology as a bridge between research, business and society

The SATW Annual Congress 2025 has shown that Switzerland is ready to play an active role in shaping the next wave of innovation. However, in addition to technological breakthroughs, there is also a need for social debate, interdisciplinary exchange and science communication that provides guidance.

We would like to thank all participants, partners and supporters for their commitment and look forward to the next annual congress!