The newsletter from the central resource for the Swiss biotech industry
July 2026
Building on success
CEO transition process initiated at the Swiss Biotech Association
As announced last month, the Swiss Biotech Association has initiated a leadership transition. CEO Michael Altorfer has expressed his intention to conclude his mandate by spring 2027, bringing to a close a highly successful ten-year tenure dedicated to advancing the association and the Swiss biotech ecosystem. He will continue to lead the Swiss Biotech Association throughout the search and selection process and will work closely with the board to ensure a smooth transition once a successor has been appointed.
This CEO search is an open process as we like to ensure that all the stakeholder know about this opportunity and work with us to identify the next leader of the Swiss Biotech Association. Please review the role specification and contact details if you are interested. Alternatively, kindly share this link with candidates you see fit or with biotech leaders with a large personal network that can help sharing this opportunity.
New formats connect biotech leaders across disciplines
Swiss biotech CMC & CSO/CMO meetings launch in Lausanne
Following the success of the Swiss biotech CEO, CFO, and HR leaders meetings, the Swiss Biotech Association is launching two new peer-to-peer formats in Lausanne:
September 1: The first Swiss biotech CMC meeting focuses on best practices and practical solutions for robust, compliant, and scalable manufacturing. Register
September 2: The inaugural Swiss biotech CSO/CMO meeting offers chief scientific and chief medical officers an informal forum to discuss the critical stages of drug development through expert talks, real-world case studies, and interactive discussions. Register
On September 3, the SITC EU Immuno-Oncology Drug Development Summit will be held in Europe for the first time, showcasing the latest advances in immuno-oncology drug development. All CSO/CMO meeting participants and Swiss Biotech Association members receive a 10% registration discount. Register
Other coming up Swiss biotech peer-to-peer meetings
Join peers from across the Swiss biotech ecosystem for practical insights, knowledge sharing, and networking in an informal setting. Register early to secure your spot.
Japan has been selected as the 2026 country partner of our Global Village platform, making BioJapan the ideal place to further strengthen Swiss–Japanese collaboration. Join us at the SWISS Pavilion in Yokohama, October 7–9, to connect with leading biotech innovators and explore new business opportunities in Japan. Swiss Biotech Association members benefit from an exclusive participation discount. Sign up by August 28 (extended deadline) to be part of Asia's largest biotechnology exhibition.
As a startup with global ambitions you might qualify for funding and participate in international trade fairs as exhibitor. Learn more and apply for a grant.
Experts sought for Technology Outlook
Contribute to Switzerland’s leading technology report
SATW is seeking experts to contribute to the Technology Outlook 2027, one of Switzerland’s leading technology publications. Experts are invited to help shape chapters covering bacteriophages, clinical multi-omics decision tools, continuous health monitoring, microbiome, mRNA, nanomedicine, organoids, plasma technologies, supramolecular medicine, and synthetic biology. If you would like to contribute contact Michael Altorfer.
New fund supports Swiss startup growth
Swiss Champions Fund backs Venture Leaders alumni
The newly launched fund aims to strengthen growth financing for Swiss startups by investing exclusively in Venture Leaders alumni. Managed by TIE Capital Partners, the fund targets approximately CHF 100 million and will focus on Series A and B financing rounds, with first investments planned for 2027. The initiative addresses one of the Swiss startup ecosystem’s key challenges: access to growth capital that enables companies to scale while remaining anchored in Switzerland.
UK and Switzerland launch joint R&D call
Funding available for bilateral innovation projects
The UK–Switzerland collaborative R&D call is inviting joint innovation projects with strong commercial potential in semiconductors, life sciences, and engineering biology. The initiative supports bilateral collaboration between Swiss and UK partners. Applications close on September 3. Full details on eligibility, funding, and the application process are available from Innosuisse and Innovate UK.
Guidance on implementing the Nagoya Protocol
BAFU to present new guidance on Swiss Nagoya legislation
The Swiss Federal Office for the Environment (BAFU) will present its new guidance on implementing the Nagoya Protocol in Switzerland at an information event on August 19, 2026, 14:00–16:00, in Ittigen. The guidance is intended to support companies and research institutions in meeting their obligations under Swiss Nagoya legislation and to strengthen its consistent and efficient implementation. Contact BAFU for more information.
Research drives Switzerland’s biotech success
Fostering young talent to drive a resilient economy
A strong biotech industry needs qualified personnel to develop the innovations for tomorrow's society. The Swiss National Science Foundation empowers today's young researchers to develop their own ideas. By investing in talent development, it contributes to Switzerland's competitiveness and adaptability in a rapidly changing world. Read the full article by Florian Fisch, Swiss National Science Foundation, in the Swiss Biotech Report.
The Swiss Biotech Association partners with several organizations to provide a perfect mix of education and long-term professional development with discount for our members.
Leadership development for scientists Strengthening leadership skills to build high-trust teams, lead through complexity and grow as a people leader in science.
Sep 8 - 10
Continuous chromatography Introducing continuous chromatography with hands-on training to improve bioprocess efficiency, sustainability and manufacturing performance.
Sep 17 - Nov 20, 2027
Pharmaceutical project management Building project management skills to lead complex pharmaceutical projects across development, manufacturing and supply chain.
Sep 21 - Jun 1, 2027
Management of clinical trials Advancing your expertise in clinical trial management through a flexible diploma or individual modules.
Sep 21 - Dec 22
MBA in biotech management Building the leadership and business skills to turn scientific innovation into commercial success in biotech.
How to navigate EU processes Preparing for joint clinical assessment under the eu hta regulation, with practical regulatory and market access insights.
Oct 5 - Dez 18
Digital health management Exploring digital health, AI and healthcare technologies to support effective management and innovation.
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