We Are ETH

In this episode of We Are ETH, host Susan Kish talks with Péter Fankhauser, CEO and co-founder of ANYbotics, about his journey from an ETH Zurich spinoff to leading one of the world’s most exciting robotics companies. Péter shares how his fascination with robots turned into a global business, the real-world challenges of scaling deep-tech innovation, and why combining AI with robotics is transforming industries. From oil and gas inspections to autonomous machines designed for complex and dangerous tasks, ANYbotics is showing how robots can take on work once thought impossible – while deliberately steering clear of military applications. Along the way, Péter offers candid advice for aspiring entrepreneurs: get out of the lab, listen to your customers, and embrace leadership that goes beyond engineering. This episode is a front-row seat to the future of robotics, and to the mindset that makes it possible.Books mentioned in this episode:The Hard Things About The Hard Things - Ben Horowitzhttps://www.amazon.de/Hard-Thing-About-Things-Building/dp/0062273205Build - Tony Fadellhttps://www.amazon.com/Build/dp/1787634108Chapters:(00:43) Peter Fankhauser's Journey into Robotics(01:23) The Focus Project at ETH Zurich(02:17) Building the Inverted Pendulum Robot(03:31) The Tipping Point in Robotics(04:52) Founding Anybotics and Embracing AI(06:03) Funding and Scaling Anybotics(08:23) Applications of Robotics in Industry(11:34) Ethical Considerations and Future of Robotics(19:47)Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs(22:19) Closing Thoughts and Reflections

ETH Zurich is reaching for the stars – literally. In this special episode of We Are ETH, host Susan Kish speaks with techno-magician Marco Tempest and innovation strategist Dr. Nanja Strecker, two visionary forces behind ETH Zurich’s rapidly growing space ecosystem. They explore how ETH is transforming itself into a launchpad for space innovation, education, and entrepreneurship: through bold initiatives like the Master program in Space Systems and the PI Innovation Hub, which connects deep tech research with real space missions. The conversation highlights the role of Switzerland in the lunar economy, the creative and technical challenges of building for space, and how ETH’s interdisciplinary strength is positioning it at the forefront of this next frontier. Marco and Nanja also share their personal journeys and what it will take to prepare the next generation of space pioneers and entrepreneurs.Chapters:(01:27) The Magic and Fascination of Space(03:07) Space Startups and Entrepreneurship(07:39) ETH Zurich's Role in Space Innovation(12:15) Thomas Zurbuchen's Journey to ETH(19:52) ETH Zurich's Space Master's Program(25:29) Personal Insights and Recommendations(33:00) Conclusion and Closing Remarksbooks mentionned in this episode:Nanjas recommendations:The Culture Map - Erin Meyerhttps://erinmeyer.com/books/the-culture-map/The Space Economy - Chad Andersonhttps://www.spacecapital.com/space-economy-bookMarcos recommendations:Signs Of Storytelling - Will Storrhttps://www.thescienceofstorytelling.com/Mindware - Tools for Smart Thinking - Richard Nisbetthttps://lsa.umich.edu/psych/people/emeriti-faculty/nisbett.html

Olympic medalist, world champion cyclist, engineer, and cookbook author – Dr. Emma Pooley has never fit into a single box. In this episode of We Are ETH, host Susan Kish sits down with the ETH Zurich PhD alumna to talk about her extraordinary path from Cambridge mathematics student to elite endurance athlete and published author. Emma shares how switching to engineering helped her make sense of the world, how she trained for the Olympics while finishing her doctorate, and why her ETH supervisor Sarah Springman played a pivotal role in making it all possible. They discuss the joys and chaos of racing bikes, adjusting to life in Zurich, writing her deeply personal cookbook OAT to Joy, and what it takes to balance ambition with wellbeing. This episode is a warm, honest, and energizing reminder that it’s possible to pursue excellence – without giving up joy.(01:01) Emma's Academic Journey(01:54) Transition to Engineering(03:09) Moving to Zurich(04:43) Discovering Cycling(07:04) Early Cycling Challenges(10:07) Balancing PhD and Cycling(12:58) PhD Research Explained(15:10) Balancing Athletics and Personal Growth(16:12) Experiences at ETH Zurich(16:42) Cycling Challenges and Crashes(17:38) Transitioning from Cycling to Triathlon(18:25) Publishing a Cookbook(20:55) Career Shift to Engineering

In this episode of We Are ETH, host Susan Kish speaks with Dr. Einat Kalisch-Rotem, the first woman mayor of Haifa and a visionary force in modern urban planning. Trained as an architect at ETH Zurich, Einat shares how her ETH experience shaped the bold strategies she’s using to reimagine Haifa’s future. From creating Israel’s first bilingual school to fighting for better public transportation and more livable, inclusive spaces, she reveals how thoughtful design can transform cities. Einat talks candidly about navigating political hurdles, breaking new ground in sustainable urban development, and her drive to position Haifa as a hub of culture, tourism, and innovation. This episode offers an inspiring look at how leadership, vision, and design can work together to reshape a city for the challenges of the 21st century.(00:27) Meet Dr. Einat Kalish-Rotem: Architect, Urban Planner, and Mayor(00:53) Zurich's Influence on Urban Planning(01:41) Challenges and Achievements in Haifa's Infrastructure(01:45) The Journey into Politics(04:14) The Vision for Haifa's Future(05:01) The Impact of Zurich on Leadership(06:18) Anthropological Insights and Public Spaces(10:09) Political Challenges and Triumphs(20:42) Future Endeavors and Reflections(22:14) Closing Thoughts and Reflections

Dr. Jan Wurzbacher, an ETH alumnus and co-founder of Climeworks, shares his journey in creating large-scale carbon capture solutions. He discusses the innovative technology behind CO₂ extraction and the remarkable growth of Climeworks from concept to reality. Jan highlights the essential collaboration between engineering and climate science and reflects on the challenges of scaling up these technologies to meet global targets. He also emphasizes the critical role of policy support and public trust in pioneering effective climate action.

Dr. Ulrike Pfreundt, a marine biologist and ETH alumna, shares her innovative journey in coral reef restoration as co-founder of RRREEFS. She discusses using 3D-printed clay structures for rebuilding lost ecosystems and highlights the urgency of addressing coral bleaching amid climate change. Ulrike reflects on her transition from nature activism to marine science, emphasizing interdisciplinary collaboration's role in her mission. She candidly addresses challenges in scaling impact and the need for new financial models to support regenerative practices.

Margarita Chli, Head of the Vision for Robotics Lab at ETH Zurich and the University of Cyprus, shares her groundbreaking work in teaching drones to perceive their surroundings. She discusses the challenges of robotic vision and the fascinating applications in areas like wildfire management and search and rescue. The conversation also highlights the ethical implications of dual-use technologies and the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration. Margarita emphasizes how curiosity fuels scientific discovery and the evolving role of AI in robotics.

In this engaging discussion, Benjamin Bollmann, CEO of Swissnex Brazil, dives into Brazil's rising influence in global climate initiatives, especially with COP30 looming in the Amazon. He shares insights on how Swissnex fosters international cooperation to merge scientific research and local knowledge. The conversation covers Brazil's potential in green energy and bio-economy, as well as comparisons between the innovation ecosystems of São Paulo, Boston, and Silicon Valley, highlighting their unique contributions to sustainability.

Benjamin Bollmann, CEO of Swissnex Brazil and a tech-savvy neuroscientist with roots in ETH Zurich and MIT, reveals his fascinating journey from skateboarding to science. He shares insights on adapting to São Paulo's vibrant culture and its intricate real estate. Benjamin discusses the stark contrasts in global innovation ecosystems, highlighting Zurich's research-driven methods against Silicon Valley's digital innovation. He also elaborates on Swissnex's role in enhancing global partnerships for Swiss startups, creating pathways for scientific collaboration.

Guillaume Othenin-Girard is an ETH Zurich alumnus, assistant professor at the University of Hong Kong, and co-founder of the Architectural Land Initiative. He delves into how architecture bridges history and social impact, sharing his experiences working on a Dezeen Award-winning project in Peru that emphasizes community and sustainability. He also discusses the challenges of teaching design during the pandemic, the significance of traditional construction methods, and the importance of interdisciplinary learning in shaping future architects.