Research

The Institute of Aerospace Medicine is engaged in cutting-edge, interdisciplinary research that bridges the rapidly evolving fields of space, aviation, and medicine. As new technical and operational capabilities emerge—particularly in low Earth orbit—aerospace medicine is transitioning into a transformative cross-sectional field. This shift is enabling the translation of space-based findings to clinical and technological applications on Earth. For instance, tissue production in space has the potential to replace animal testing and revolutionize transplantation and precision medicine. Additionally, aerospace medicine contributes significantly to our understanding of ageing processes, the musculoskeletal system, and the advancement of telemedicinetations.   

In alignment with Switzerland's strategic interests, the institute plays a central role in strengthen the Switzerland Innovation Park Zurich and acts as a national research partner in aerospace medicine together with the Federal Office of Civil Aviation (FOCA) and the Swiss Aeromedical Institute (FAI). The University of Zurich (UZH), through its internationally recognized programs in aerospace medicine, is positioned as a key contributor in this evolving landscape. The institute serves as a competence core for medical R&D related to space and aviation, offering a comprehensive ecosystem of scientific support, flight program access, and international collaboration.

The research portfolio is equally committed to fundamental scientific discovery and practical clinical applications. In terms of basic research, the institute investigates genomic regulation mechanisms related to gravitational force adaptation under a NASA Space Act Agreement—laying the groundwork for how humans adapt to and are affected by variable gravity environments. On the clinical side, ongoing studies include hypergravity’s effects on the immune system signaling, in collaboration with FAI, and human performance research in aviation for the Swiss Air Force, which is becoming increasingly vital as flight environments evolve.

As the World Economic Forum highlighted in 2024, bio- and medical applications will likely be among the first beneficiaries of the growing industrial activity in low Earth orbit. The institute’s strategic position—anchored in scientific excellence, national partnerships, and global networks—ensures that Switzerland remains at the forefront of this biomedical revolution in space. Through sustained research, innovation, and international outreach, the Institute of Aerospace Medicine is establishing an academic and operational bridge to the future of medicine in space and on Earth. 

Publications Oliver Ullrich https://scholar.google.ch/citations?user=G3KOaM0AAAAJ&hl=en) 
Publications Cora Thielhttps://scholar.google.ch/citations?user=L5Pp7ZIAAAAJ&hl=de) 

Pictures:  Julian Raatschen, Airbus Denfence and Space/ Julian Raatschen, Airbus Denfence and Space/ UZH