Swiss–UK University Leadership Dialogue: UZH Hosts Roundtable on the Future of Fundamental Research
Against the backdrop of shifting research priorities and growing geopolitical complexity, university leaders from Switzerland and the United Kingdom met at the University of Zurich (UZH) for a high-level dialogue on the future of fundamental research.
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Titled “Checks and Balances for Fundamental Research”, the event brought together university presidents and senior representatives to exchange views on how universities can promote academic freedom, institutional autonomy, and international collaboration in a rapidly evolving policy environment shaped by geopolitical developments. The event was hosted by UZH and co-organized by the British Embassy in Berne.
Shared perspectives across borders
Despite their non-EU status, Switzerland and the United Kingdom share highly internationalized research systems and strength in innovation. Participants highlighted common values including a pragmatic, future-oriented approach to research and innovation as well as a strong commitment to excellence, openness, and scientific rigour.
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A platform for continued dialogue
The roundtable opened with a keynote by Professor Kurt Deketelaere, Secretary General of the League of European Research Universities (LERU), who framed the discussion within broader transformations of the global research and innovation ecosystem. He highlighted 2026 as a pivotal year for Europe’s research future with major policy decisions ahead – including the next EU Framework Program (FP10), the Multiannual Financial Framework and related initiatives shaping the European research landscape.
The discussions that followed underscored the shared view that the European Union’s research and innovation agenda depends on the research and innovation capacities of both Switzerland and the United Kingdom.
Hosting the Swiss–UK Leadership Roundtable reflects UZH’s commitment under the Global Strategy 2030 to foster international dialogue and contributing to evidence-based policymaking. By bringing together university leaders from Switzerland and the United Kingdom, the roundtable strengthened a shared understanding and reinforced an open dialogue.
Thurka Sinnathurai & Carmen Richard
