The newsletter from the central resource for the Swiss biotech industry
June 2026
Building on success
Swiss Biotech Association starts CEO succession process
The Swiss Biotech Association has firmly established itself as a strong voice and facilitator for the Swiss biotech industry, while the Swiss Biotech Day has developed into one of the sector’s leading global events. Since its inception in 1998, the association has grown alongside the Swiss biotech industry - expanding its activities, platforms, and networking events. It created additional resources, strengthened its network, and adapted to the changing needs of its members and the entire biotech ecosystem, thereby helping to strengthen Switzerland’s position as a leading biotechnology hub.
Building on this momentum and from a position of strength, the Swiss Biotech Association is now initiating 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 association with unchanged strategy, priorities and activities and support a smooth transition to his successor.
If you would like to share any suggestions or recommendations for the new Swiss Biotech Association CEO, please get in touch with us using the contact details provided in the role specification.
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.
The first Swiss biotech CMC meeting on September 1 is designed for senior leaders responsible for translating scientific innovation into robust, compliant, and scalable manufacturing solutions. Participants will gain practical insights from experienced industry leaders who have successfully navigated complex CMC and operational challenges.
On September 2, the first Swiss biotech CSO/CMO meeting will bring together chief scientific and chief medical officers for an informal exchange on the critical stages of drug development. Through expert talks, real-world case studies, and interactive discussions, participants will explore challenges and opportunities across non-clinical and clinical development while strengthening collaboration across the Swiss biotech ecosystem.
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.
Life Science Cares Switzerland and Cytokinetics are supporting the DanceBots workshop, an outreach project by mint & pepper taking place on June 29–30 in Effretikon. The hands-on science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM) program encourages young people, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, to explore robotics, creativity, and problem-solving. Contact Thomas Schwerzmann, if you are interested in supporting or participating in future workshops.
Public voting opens
Top Swiss startups of the year
The Top100 public voting has started. All nominated startups were pre-selected by a jury of leading investors and startup experts and are now competing for the chance to be crowned a Top100 Newcomer of the Year 2026. Cast your vote by July 19.
Nominations open for prestigious Swiss award
Lelio Orci Award 2026 seeks outstanding scientists
Nominations are now open for the Lelio Orci Award 2026, one of Switzerland’s most prestigious life sciences awards. Presented by the Lelio Orci Fund and administered by LS2, the award recognizes outstanding achievements in fundamental cellular biology. Researchers who have conducted a significant part of their work at a Swiss institution are eligible. Nominations must be submitted by August 9.
A strong life sciences ecosystem shows in numbers
Biotech products as a driving force of the Swiss export economy
The chemical, pharmaceutical, and life science industries are driving a fundamental shift in Swiss exports. They accounted for 53% of Swiss exports in 2025, and over the past twenty-five years they have been responsible for 72% of total export growth. The sub-sector which includes therapeutic proteins, innovative cell therapies, vaccines, and other immunological products made up 20% of exports in 2025, and alone contributed CHF 57.4 billion to Switzerland's economy. Read the full article by Jan Lucht, scienceindustries, in the Swiss Biotech Report 2026
Selected upcoming events & discounts for our members
Order your spot now
Join Swiss Biotech Pavilions at coming up biotech conferences
Use the Swiss Biotech Pavilion as your home base for your activities. The official Swiss presence is organized by Switzerland Global Enterprise in collaboration with the Swiss Biotech Association. As Swiss Biotech Association member you benefit from discounts.
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.
Engage in high-level discussions, strategic networking, and curated pitch sessions — all focused on fostering real connections and driving tangible impact in the health innovation ecosystem.
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.
Exploring practical approaches to circular economy in life sciences, from regulatory insights and case studies to real-world application and collaboration.
A site visit exploring how green chemistry is implemented in pharmaceutical manufacturing, with insights into innovation, collaboration and scalable solutions.
Engage in open, science-driven discussions focused on the future of bioprocessing. Get to know tools redefining process development, monitoring, and control.
Jun 25
Café and croissant: FONGIT life sciences Get an update of the Geneva startup community, meet with entrepreneurs, and expand your professional network over coffee and croissants.
Jun 29
Getting it right early Where drug, device and patient experience meet - Exploring the path from vials to combination products with practical insights.
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