ZHAW Zurich University of Applied Sciences is one of Switzerland’s leading universities of applied sciences, offering practice-oriented and science-based teaching, research, continuing education, and services. With campuses in Winterthur, Zurich, and Wädenswil, the university is deeply rooted in its region while actively collaborating with international partners.
Through strong research and development, ZHAW addresses pressing societal challenges – particularly in the fields of energy, social integration, sustainability, and digital transformation. Its interdisciplinary approach links applied research closely with academic programs and business services, creating a vibrant environment for innovation and real-world impact. ZHAW actively contributes to the European Higher Education and Research Areas and fosters a university culture grounded in participation, diversity, and individual responsibility.
ZHAW’s research activities span all eight of its schools and are driven by a commitment to scientific excellence and societal relevance. Engineering is one of the most research-intensives topics at ZHAW, with expertise in energy systems, mobility, robotics, industrial automation, data science, and digital manufacturing. Applied research in engineering is closely tied to the needs of industry and supports Switzerland’s position as a high-tech innovation hub. Projects often involve strong cooperation with SMEs and corporates alike, ensuring technology transfer into practice.
The Center for Artificial Intelligence (CAI), a key hub within the School of Engineering, brings together experts in machine learning, natural language processing, computer vision, and explainable AI, with the goal of making cutting-edge AI research accessible and impactful for industry and society.
In Life Sciences, the university conducts applied research in biotechnology, environmental sciences, food innovation, and health – with a strong focus on sustainability and practical application. The School of Life Sciences and Facility Management works closely with industry to advance solutions in areas ranging from molecular diagnostics to sustainable agriculture and nutrition.
The new «Future of Food» campus in Wädenswil near Zurich, is committed to a future in which a sustainable, enjoyable and healthy diet is possible for everyone. The motto «regenerative food for planetary health» aims to find solutions to the challenges posed by climate change, the growing world population and limited natural resources.
Across all disciplines, ZHAW promotes lifelong learning and equips students with the reflective, professional, and research-based skills needed to thrive in a knowledge-driven economy. With a high-quality infrastructure and a mission to foster transformative science, ZHAW is helping to shape the digital and ecological transition – locally, nationally, and globally.
Our partners
Our partners
The Greater Zurich Area Foundation and the operational Greater Zurich Area Ltd. (GZA) are supported by 30+ supporters from the private sector and academia. Curious to know who the others are?
Meet with an expansion expert
Our services are free of charge and include:
- Introduction to key contacts in industry, academia, and government
- Advice on regulatory framework, taxes, labor, market, and setting up a company
- Custom-made fact-finding visits, including office and co-working space