The University of Zurich (UZH) celebrated its 192nd anniversary at the Dies academicus ceremony, presenting numerous awards and recognitions. The Walter and Gertrud Siegenthaler Foundation honored six outstanding early-career researchers with its annual foundation prizes. Additionally, our board members Christian Wenger and Eveline Saupper were awarded honorary senate titles for their long-standing dedication and commitment to UZH.
On May 16, 2025, guests from academia, business, culture, and politics gathered to celebrate UZH’s 192nd birthday. “Some say Dies academicus is the only day researchers leave their offices, labs, and libraries just to prove they exist,” joked moderator Barbara Bleisch. While not entirely true, it’s wonderful to see how much researchers cherish their institutions.
A Celebration with Honors and Music
No birthday celebration is complete without music. The Academic Orchestra of Zurich provided a festive soundtrack and will perform again at the Tonhalle on May 29.
The ceremony also featured heartfelt tributes from speakers honoring award recipients. This year, 26 awards were presented in total.
Eveline Saupper and Christian Wenger were both named Honorary Senator, recognizing their exceptional contributions to the UZH Foundation and the University of Zurich.
Christian Wenger, who has been passionately involved with UZH for many years, expressed at the ceremony: “My heart beats for this city and its university. It is a great honor to support this vibrant research hub, which offers an ideal foundation for innovation and entrepreneurship.”
Eveline Saupper shared her commitment as well: “UZH is a fascinating place of knowledge and innovation. It fills me with joy and gratitude to help shape its future.”
We are proud and grateful to have both on our Foundation Board — thank you for your incredible dedication!
The Walter and Gertrud Siegenthaler Foundation also presented its annual awards to six outstanding young researchers, handed over by Beatrice Beck Schimmer, Director of University Medicine Zurich.
Congratulations to:
Céline Laesser and Dr. med. Julia Wawrla-Zepf (Research Fellowship),
Anna-Sophie Hofer and Tobias Spiller (Science Award),
and Alessia Callegari and Lisa Ruby (Return Fellowship)!
Learn more about their research here
For the full Dies academicus coverage, see here
