The expansion of the research campus in Dübendorf, which took place from 2021 to 2024, includes a state-of-the-art laboratory building, a multifunctional building and a new multi-storey car park. These infrastructure measures are crucial in order to meet the increasing demands of research. The additional 30 laboratories and offices offer researchers an improved working environment that meets the latest technological and environmentally friendly standards.
Sustainability and innovation go hand in hand
A special feature of the new campus is its focus on sustainable energy generation and utilisation. A newly developed high-temperature geothermal probe system stores waste heat in summer and uses it to heat the buildings in winter. These and other technological innovations, which come directly from the Empa and Eawag laboratories, will not only be used on the campus, but will also be further researched to optimise their efficiency and environmental compatibility.
A green and car-free campus
In order to make the campus site more environmentally friendly and pedestrian-friendly, existing parking spaces were moved to the new multi-storey car park and the site was extensively landscaped. A “green belt” connects the two research institutes and creates an inviting atmosphere for employees and visitors. The new campus square at NEST also offers an attractive open space for socialising and recreation.
Looking to the future
With the completion of the “co-operate” project, Empa and Eawag have not only modernised their research infrastructure, but also laid the foundations for future innovations. The combination of state-of-the-art construction, sustainable energy utilisation and an improved working environment promotes cutting-edge research and strengthens Switzerland’s position as a leading location for scientific innovation.
