The 17th Day of Life Sciences of the Institute of Chemistry and Biotechnology (ICBT) at ZHAW is dedicated to one of the most pressing topics of our time: the future of the bioeconomy.

Under the guiding theme “Shaping the Future Bioeconomy: Innovations from Biomass”, the event highlights how renewable resources, biotechnological processes and chemical innovation can drive sustainable economic development.

The Day of Life Sciences 2026 brings together researchers, students, industry partners and stakeholders to showcase current projects, pilot applications and forward-looking concepts from applied research and development. In a series of focused sessions—ranging from microbial processes and carbon utilisation to high-value biomass pathways and business-oriented innovations—we explore how scientific insights are translated into practical solutions.

We warmly invite you to join us at the ZHAW Campus Grüental in Wädenswil to exchange ideas, gain new perspectives and actively engage in interdisciplinary dialogue.

Program

08:30 – 09:00 | Registration & Welcome Coffee
09:00 – 09:30 | Opening Session & Keynote
- Welcome by the Director of the Department
- Keynote: Prof. Jerry Murphy: “Expanding biogas processes into     
                         broader biorefinery and bioeconomy systems”
09:30 – 10:30 | 1: The Hidden Session - Microbiology as an Instrument
10:30 – 11:00 | Coffee Break with Networking & Exhibition
11:00 – 12:00 | 2: The Carbon Session - Biomass C-Molecule Power
12:00 – 13:00 | Lunch Break
13:00 – 13:30 | Coffee & Exhibition
13:30 – 14:30 | 3: The Value Session - High-Value Biomass Pathways
14:30 – 15:00 | Coffee, Dessert & Exhibition
15:00 – 16:00 | 4: The Future Session - Turning Biomass into Business
16:00 – 16:30 | Closing & Outlook
- Summary of the Results
From 16:30 | Apéro, Networking & Exhibition