One of the most exciting developments in the field of robotics is currently taking shape in the Greater Zurich Area: the Robotics and AI Institute (RAI). The institute, which opened its European headquarters in Zurich at the beginning of 2024 under the leadership of Professor Marco Hutter, is growing and plays a key global role.
The mission of the Robotics and AI Institute
The mission of the institute is clearly defined: "Our mission is to solve the most important and fundamental challenges in AI and Robotics to enable future generations of intelligent machines that will help us all live better lives."
Around 25 specialists currently work at the RAI, with backgrounds in computer science, machine learning, robotics, electrical and mechanical engineering. New talent is actively being recruited for the Zurich site, including for the position of Research Scientist (vacancies).
Professor Marco Hutter emphasises the importance of interdisciplinary research for the future of robotics:
New laboratory from summer 2025
A major milestone is set for summer 2025: the opening of a state-of-the-art laboratory where robotic systems can be tested in realistic environments. The aim is to develop mobile, autonomous machines for use in diverse urban and natural environments.
The RAI Institute recently published two impressive videos of a self-propelled bicycle that can jump onto tables and a gymnastic humanoid robot that performs acrobatic feats similar to a human. Both systems use reinforcement learning, which offers completely new possibilities for these robots.
Robotics pioneer Marc Raibert, Executive Director of the RAI Institute based in Cambridge and founder of Boston Dynamics, has repeatedly emphasised the need for intelligent machines in the past:
This principle is also reflected in the goals of the RAI.
Greater Zurich as a robotics hotspot
It is no coincidence that the RAI has settled in Zurich of all places. In recent years, the city has developed into a global centre for robotics and artificial intelligence. ETH Zurich is recognised as one of the world's leading universities for robotics, and numerous start-ups with ground-breaking innovations have emerged from its environment.
In addition to the Robotics and AI Institute, companies such as Anybotics, Verity, and Rivr are based here and are causing a stir worldwide with their autonomous systems.
Marco Hutter emphasises:
Silicon Valley of Robotics
Silicon Valley of Robotics
Switzerland is known as the Silicon Valley of Robotics and the Greater Zurich Area contributes considerably to this peak position: Its universities and technology companies belong among the world’s leaders in autonomous & intelligent systems, computer vision, sensor technology, and artificial intelligence.
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