Honor the Past and Embrace the Future: 160 years of Prix Schläfli

Every year, the Swiss Academy of Sciences SCNAT awards the Prix Schläfli to young scientists who have published outstanding and relevant research from their doctoral theses. The prize has been awarded for 160 years in the natural science disciplines of biology, chemistry, geosciences, mathematics, astronomy and physics. To promote young people's interest in the natural sciences, SCNAT organises a mini-symposium in which laureates will participate.

Highly motivated high school students and their teachers are invited to meet and discuss with laureates of the Prix Schläfli at a mini-symposium. Registration is done via the online form (registration until 30 September 2026).

Programme:

13:00 – Welcome coffee
13:30 – Introduction (SCNAT, Prix Schläfli, Programme)
13:50 – Echoes from the past: Tanja Schwander (Laureate 2009, Université de Lausanne) – Talk about the research of Auguste Forel (laureate 1872), myrmecologist, and comparison with newest knowledge.
14:10 – Inspiring talk: Xavier Dumusque (Laureate 2014, University of Geneva) – Talk on a topic related to planetary sciences
14:30 – Scientific Speed dating
15: 30 – Break
16:00 – Panel discussion on academic careers
16:45 – Improvisation theatre with TBD Improtheater
17:30 – Closure and Apero
18:15 – Dinner (by invitation)