Heinrich Ursprung was one of the founding members of SATW in 1981 and was its President from 1981 to 1990. The developmental biologist and full professor of zoology was already President of ETH Zurich from 1973 to 1987. Later, as State Secretary, he led the bilateral negotiations between Switzerland and the EU in the field of research.
His presidency included numerous studies reflecting the interests of the time, including "Matura students and technology" (1984), "Access to computers" (1986), "The house of the future" (1987), "Biotechnology - a challenge for engineers" (1987) and "Women in the engineering profession" (1988).
Heinrich Ursprung's words on the occasion of the founding of the Academy are still valid today: "The SATW supports the public and authorities with advice and assistance when scientifically and technically demanding tasks are under discussion."
With the death of Heinrich Ursprung, the SATW has lost one of its most influential personalities. We will all miss him very much. Our deepest condolences go to his loved ones. We send them our best wishes for strength and comfort. You can find a detailed obituary here.
