Snow, Science, and Surprises with Jürg Schweizer

In this episode, Matthias Walcher sits down with Jürg Schweizer for a deep dive on a career focused on snow science. 

Jürg Schweizer studied environmental physics at ETH Zurich and joined SLF, at that time still up on the Weissfluhjoch, after completing his PhD. He spent a formative year conducting research at Rogers Pass in Canada. He rose from researcher to head of the world’s most renowned institute in the field, leading pioneering work that shaped modern avalanche science. Along the way, he mentored dozens of young scientists who now advance our understanding of snow and avalanches worldwide.

Interview highlights:

- How avalanche research has changed over the decades.

- What it takes to build a career in avalanche science.

- Why 4,000 feet of snow pits still hold surprises.

- The importance of good mentorship.

Resources cited in the conversation:

https://www.instagram.com/whiteriskslf/?hl=en

https://www.instagram.com/slfdavos/?hl=en

Links to many of his publications can be found here: https://www.slf.ch/de/mitarbeitende/schweizj

Thanks to the sponsors of the show.

Legacy Sponsors:

Darren Johnson Avalanche Education Memorial Fund

AVSS

Drone Amplified

Partner Sponsors:

CIL Avalanche

Safeback

onX Backcountry

Episode Sponsor:

Open Snow

Music: Ketsa

Artwork: Mike Tea 

Production: Caleb Merrill, Bob Keating