Find out more about the research questions we are working on and the unique large-scale research facilities we are using to find answers.
Future technologies
New technologies are the driving force behind an innovative society. At PSI, researchers are laying the necessary foundations for this. They are looking for previously unknown ways of processing and storing data, making technologies more sustainable and efficient or developing new processes to delve ever deeper into the micro and nano worlds. Their findings form the basis for new applications - be it in medicine, information technology, energy generation and storage - or for new production processes in industry.
A world-first lens brings neutrons into sharper focus
From thick samples to processes inside bulky equipment, a new type of lens opens the door to high-resolution neutron imaging of working systems.
Quantum material under pressure
High pressure enhances superconductivity in a quantum material and alters its properties. PSI researchers have uncovered the microscopic mechanism behind this effect.
On the trail of the missing hydrogen atoms
Representations of the crystal structures of materials often lack information about the positions of hydrogen atoms. PSI researchers have found a way to fill this gap, using AI.
Energy and Climate
Climate change is one of the greatest challenges of our time. Switzerland aims to be climate-neutral by 2050 – in other words, not to emit more greenhouse gases than can be absorbed naturally or by technical means. This calls on us to rethink our energy production and use – away from fossil fuels and towards climate-neutral energy sources. How can Switzerland become fit for a climate-neutral energy future? Researchers at PSI are looking for answers.
Demonstration plant for sustainable aviation fuel inaugurated
On August 20, the inauguration ceremony for a new plant on the PSI campus took place. Here the production of sustainable aviation fuel is being tested: synthetic kerosene produced in an exceptionally efficient way.
Checking the biggest EV myths against science
Electric cars are transforming mobility worldwide. However, many questions and misconceptions surround their environmental impact and everyday usability. Taking a closer look at the scientific facts reveals their strengths and weaknesses.
Fertiliser from the neighbourhood
A PSI study shows where small plants could produce ammonia for fertiliser in a low-carbon way in the future.
Health Innovation
New methods for diagnosis and therapy are at the centre of medical research and development at PSI. In cancer diagnosis, the focus is on early detection. Basic research using the latest methods leads to the development of innovative therapies. PSI works very closely with universities, clinics and the pharmaceutical industry.
Combating cancer growth
Researchers at PSI and the University of Zurich have determined the mechanism behind an important signalling protein that spins out of control in certain types of cancer. This paves the way for new approaches to cancer treatment.
Nano-insights into bone stability
PSI researchers have used a new imaging technique to more precisely assess the nanostructure of bone in the neck of the femur. This could help understand why they fracture relatively often.
New insights into human vision
How the human eye is optimised for daylight: PSI researchers reveal the three-dimensional structure of cone opsins in their dark states for the first time
Fundamentals of Nature
At PSI, researchers investigate the basic structures of matter and the fundamental principles of nature. They examine the smallest building blocks of matter or investigate the structure of biological molecules and how they perform their tasks. The knowledge gathered in this way opens up new approaches to finding solutions in science, medicine and technology.
How the “unicorn of the seas” got its helix
Synchrotron light reveals for the first time how the spiral form of the narwhal tusk is created by the arrangement of nanometre-sized building blocks.
What a dry meteorite tells us about water on Mars
Neutron and X-ray tomography show where water is bound inside a Martian meteorite – offering new insights into the early history of Mars.
Neutrons don’t disappear into the mirror world
Do mirror particles exist for all elementary particles? PSI researchers have succeeded in largely ruling out this hypothesis in particle physics – with unprecedented experimental precision.
Our large research facilities
PSI develops, builds and operates complex large research facilities. PSI has the world's most powerful muon source, a unique proton and neutron source, an synchrotron of international importance and one of only five X-ray free-electron lasers with hard X-rays in the world. Scientists from all over the world use PSI's large research facilities for their scientific investigations. They are also available to Swiss research and industry for their experiments.
First positrons for the Future Circular Collider
At Paul Scherrer Institute PSI, positrons have been successfully produced at a test source for CERN’s proposed next-generation particle collider.
A window on a cold quantum world
At SwissFEL, scientists get a rare glimpse into the quantum states that emerge at extremely low temperatures.
LEAPS AISBL inaugurated in Brussels as formal legal entity
Europe’s leading photon science facilities enter a new phase of strategic coordination.