Three years ago, you gave the opening speech at the new Swiss TPH headquarters in Allschwil. What was your impression at the time – and how do you see Swiss TPH today?

Martina Hirayama: “It was impressive to enter the new building – modern, open, full of energy. The infrastructure is a perfect match for the cutting-edge research taking place inside. Today, Swiss TPH is an important pillar in Switzerland’s education, research and innovation system and is indispensable nationally in the field of public health. What is also impressive is its international presence – Swiss TPH is active and well-connected worldwide.”

You took part in the World Economic Forum (WEF) in January 2025. Disinformation was ranked as the greatest global risk over the next two years, ahead of extreme weather events and armed conflicts. How can stakeholders in Switzerland’s education, research and innovation sectors address this risk?

Martina Hirayama: “There are three key elements: First, education – it empowers people to think critically and navigate the media landscape. Only then can we properly assess information. Second, science – it must be transparent, including about its limitations. Research is a process, and answers aren’t always immediate. And third, the development of technological tools to detect disinformation – here, research is just as essential as the responsible use of these technologies.”

Switzerland has topped the UN Global Innovation Index for the 14th year in a row. Could recent government austerity plans jeopardise this position?

Martina Hirayama: “Our innovation capacity is built on a wide range of factors: a strong vocational education and training system, excellent universities, high-quality basic research, and effective knowledge and technology transfer. Collaboration with industry also plays an important role. In Switzerland, around two-thirds of research and innovation funding comes from the private sector. This requires an appropriate framework, for large companies as well as for SMEs and start-ups. International cooperation is also vital, for example through European programmes or bilateral agreements that enable joint research and mobility in education. Other factors include quality of life, political stability, and a reliable legal system. It’s true that the financial situation is tight, and setting political priorities will be crucial. But education, research and innovation enjoy broad political and public support in Switzerland. There is a strong awareness of the need to invest in these areas.”

Science is also under pressure internationally – for example in climate research, biomedicine, and global health. Should Switzerland take a stronger position here?

Martina Hirayama: “One thing that sets our education, research and innovation policy apart from many other countries is its strong bottom-up approach. We count on researchers to take initiative and define priorities, rather than imposing political directives on what should be explored. While there are specific thematic focuses, such as national research programmes or strategic areas, we fundamentally believe that the driving force lies in research itself, and that scientists are best placed to identify the most relevant questions for the future. Take nanotechnology, for example, which was recognised as important by scientists long before it appeared on the political radar. The same applies to global health: research institutions like Swiss TPH define their priorities based on their scientific expertise.”

How can Switzerland remain innovative and competitive, and what role do research institutions of national importance like Swiss TPH play?

Martina Hirayama: “Swiss TPH is rightly recognised as a research institution of national importance. It works closely with universities such as the University of Basel and brings valuable international perspectives. The Basel region has developed into a strong ecosystem for life sciences and global health. Fondation Botnar’s investment in the region is largely due to excellent institutions like Swiss TPH. Internationally – especially in Africa – Swiss TPH is a visible and valued partner. That also enhances Switzerland’s reputation as a trustworthy research hub.”

The Swiss Science Council notes in its evaluation that Swiss TPH will become even more important in the future due to the health risks associated with climate change. What is your view?

Martina Hirayama: “Unfortunately, I think that’s the case. We’re already seeing diseases emerge in regions where they were previously uncommon. For example, mosquitoes that can transmit such diseases are finding new habitats due to climate change. With its long-standing experience in combating tropical diseases, Swiss TPH can also make an important contribution in Switzerland – for instance, in early detection and prevention. Its close ties with countries in tropical regions also make it an ideal partner in tackling new challenges in these diseases – for example, by developing new control strategies or treatments in collaboration with local partners.”

Swiss TPH works along the entire value chain – from basic research to the testing and application of research findings. How important is the practical application of science, and how should it be supported?

Martina Hirayama: “Basic research remains crucial – it generates new knowledge. At the same time, it’s important to find ways to translate this knowledge into real-world solutions. This means researchers need to be aware of the practical potential of their work, and we need the appropriate policy framework and funding instruments, such as Innosuisse, which help SMEs access this knowledge and develop applications. Collaboration between research and practice is essential – and ultimately a prerequisite for our ability to continue investing in basic research.”

You recently visited Tanzania and Kenya to strengthen bilateral relations in education, research and innovation. What impressions did you take away?

Martina Hirayama: “It was inspiring to see the dedication of local researchers – for example, at the Ifakara Health Institute (IHI), which works closely with Swiss TPH. This collaboration, which has existed since 1956, shows what can be achieved through long-term strategic partnerships. Today, IHI is a research institute with an international reputation, attracting funding thanks to its scientific excellence and strong track record as a research partner.”