The INSIDE event, formerly known as the 4à6, recently welcomed 40 participants from various sectors to the Institute of Life Sciences, located on the vibrant Campus Energypolis in Sion. Co-organized by BioArk and BioAlps, this gathering highlighted the critical importance of collaboration between academia and industry in the life sciences field, particularly in the Valais region.

A Warm Welcome

The event began with welcome addresses from key figures representing the local academic and business community. Sandra Ansanay-Alex from BioAlps emphasized the organization’s commitment to fostering innovation within the life sciences sector in Switzerland. Eric Bianco, from the Canton of Valais, discussed the economic and technological contributions that the life sciences sector brings to the region, while Gaetan Cherix, Director of the School of Engineering, stressed the significance of research in driving innovation.Sergio Schmid, Head of the Institute of Life Sciences, provided an overview of the institute’s activities, underscoring its pivotal role in promoting research and innovation.

Two major research projects were highlighted:

• Project AbYlink, presented by Professor Origene Nyanguile, focuses on a groundbreaking method for molecular linking in biosciences.
• Project NeuroMdX, presented by Professor Marc Pfeifer, could revolutionize brain disease diagnostics by enabling more accurate and timely biomarker identification.

Engaging Laboratory Tours

Following the presentations, attendees had the opportunity to tour three cutting-edge laboratories:

• Halle Pilote Biotech, led by Professor Manfred Zinn and scientific assistant Julien Pott, showcased bioprocessing and fermentation technologies.
• Molecular Biology Lab, directed by Professor Alexandre Kuhn, shared insights on synthetic biology and high-throughput sequencing projects for molecular diagnostics.
• Analytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry Platform, led by Professor Wilfried Andlauer, demonstrated advanced analytical methods used to study biomolecules.

This event provided participants with a fascinating glimpse into the innovative research taking place at the Institute of Life Sciences, reinforcing the connections between academia and industry in the life sciences sector.

A overview of the event in pictures

To relive the highlights of this inspiring afternoon at INSIDE, we invite you to explore our exclusive photo gallery . These images capture the essence of the event, showcasing participants’ enthusiasm and engaging demonstrations in the laboratories.

By promoting collaboration between academia and industry, INSIDE plays a crucial role in shaping the future of life sciences in Switzerland. We look forward to seeing how these partnerships will continue to evolve and drive progress in this vital field.