Where Architecture Meets Marine Biology: Ulrike Pfreundt on Coral Restoration
Marine biologist and ETH alumna Dr. Ulrike Pfreundt shares her journey from rainforest activism to coral reef regeneration. As co-founder and co-CEO of RRREEFS, she is pioneering a novel approach to rebuilding lost reef ecosystems—using 3D-printed clay structures inspired by architecture, biology, and fluid dynamics. In conversation with host Susan Kish, Ulrike explains how coral reefs protect coastlines, why reef loss is accelerating, and how interdisciplinary collaboration at ETH Zurich sparked her mission. She speaks candidly about the challenges of scaling impact, the importance of transparency in climate work, and the need to rethink financial models for regeneration. From dive training on Elba to launching one of the world’s most innovative reef restoration startups, Ulrike’s story is a powerful testament to curiosity, purpose, and the power of science to heal ocean ecosystems.books mentioned in the episode:Bernhard Kegel - Graschapters:(00:32) Meet Dr. Ulrike Pfreundt and RRREEFS(01:27) The Meaning Behind RRREEFS(02:09) Corporate Values and Mission(03:32) Challenges and Goals in Coral Reef Restoration(06:00) Understanding Coral Bleaching(09:55) Dr. Pfreundt's Journey into Marine Science(12:49) Innovative Approaches to Reef Restoration(16:26) Interdisciplinary Collaboration at ETH(22:16) Final Thoughts and Reflections(27:32) Closing Remarks and Podcast Information
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Teaching Drones to See with Margarita Chli
In this episode, host Susan Kish speaks with Professor Margarita Chli, a leading figure in robotic vision and autonomous systems. As the head of the Vision for Robotics Lab at ETH Zurich and the University of Cyprus, Professor Chli discusses how her research enables drones to perceive and navigate complex environments. She delves into the challenges of developing vision systems for autonomous drones, the potential applications in areas like wildfire management and search and rescue, and the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in advancing these technologies. The conversation also touches on the ethical considerations of dual-use technologies and the role of curiosity in scientific discovery. This episode offers insights into the cutting-edge work at the intersection of robotics, AI, and real-world applications.Chapters(00:26) Meet Professor Margarita Chli(01:07) Understanding Vision in Robotics(03:24) Challenges in Robotic Vision(05:38) Swarm Robotics and Communication(10:56) Hardware vs. Software in Robotics(13:47) Drones in Warfare and Humanitarian Efforts(17:54) The Future of Robotics and AI(19:48) Personal Insights and Curiosities
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23:19
From the Amazon to the World: Forging Global Climate Solutions – Benjamin Bollmann
In this follow-up episode, Benjamin Bollmann, CEO of Swissnex Brazil, delves into Brazil’s prominent role in global climate initiatives, particularly with the upcoming COP30 in the Amazon. He explains how Swissnex is working to foster international cooperation, focusing on the intersection of scientific research, local knowledge, and sustainable development. Benjamin also highlights Brazil’s potential as a leader in green energy and bio-economy, while emphasizing the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration to address climate challenges. Drawing comparisons between innovation ecosystems across Boston, Silicon Valley, Zurich, and São Paulo, he discusses how different approaches contribute to advancing sustainability solutions. This episode offers a grounded perspective on how countries like Brazil are positioning themselves within the global dialogue on climate action. Chapters:(01:36) Brazil on the World Stage(02:13) Swissnex Brazil and COP30(03:18) The Göldi Museum and Swiss Legacy(06:01) Innovation Ecosystems Around the World(07:55) Comparing Boston and Silicon Valley(11:54) Personal Insights and Reflections(18:23) Closing Thoughts and Farewellbooks mentioned in the episode:Facing Gaia – Eight Lectures on the New Climatic Regime (Bruno Latour)Lina Bo Bardi 100 – Brazil's Alternative Path to ModernismAmazonia by Marcio Souza
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19:14
From ETH Zurich to São Paulo: Leading Innovation Ecosystems – Benjamin Bollmann
ETH alumnus Benjamin Bollmann, CEO of Swissnex Brazil, discusses his diverse path from ETH Zurich to his leadership role at Swissnex, connecting science, innovation, and education. With a background in neuroscience and technology from ETH Zurich and MIT, Benjamin reflects on the challenges and opportunities of building global partnerships. Comparing innovation ecosystems from Boston’s deep tech to Silicon Valley’s digital innovation and Zurich’s research-driven approaches, he highlights the distinct strengths of each region. Now based in São Paulo, he shares his experiences navigating the unique innovation environment of Brazil, particularly through Swissnex’s initiatives to support Swiss startups and foster global collaborations in science and technology. This episode provides valuable insights into the evolving landscape of international innovation and collaboration.Chapters:(00:28) Settling into Sao Paulo(02:48) Benjamin's Journey: From Skateboarding to Science(05:39) Academic Pursuits and Neuroscience(08:06) The Boston Experience and MIT(11:29) Creating Neural Architectures(13:10) Swissnex: A Global Network(15:51) Reflections on ETH and Interdisciplinary Learning(19:46) Conclusion and Upcoming Topicsbooks mentioned in the episode:Facing Gaia – Eight Lectures on the New Climatic Regime (Bruno Latour)Lina Bo Bardi 100 – Brazil's Alternative Path to ModernismAmazonia by Marcio Souza
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Reimagining Architecture with Traditional Craft and Modern Design with Guillaume Othenin-Girard
ETH alumnus Guillaume Othenin-Girard, an assistant professor at the University of Hong Kong and co-founder of the Architectural Land Initiative, explores how architecture connects history, sustainability, and social impact. From a Dezeen Award-winning project in Peru, where he led ETH and Peruvian students in designing a community-focused structure at an endangered archaeological site, to his ongoing work in Armenia, Guillaume’s journey spans continents and cultures. He shares insights into traditional construction methods, the role of local materials in modern architecture, and the challenges of teaching design in a digital world. Reflecting on his time at ETH Zurich, he highlights how interdisciplinary thinking and hands-on learning have shaped his career. This episode offers a compelling look at the intersection of architecture, heritage conservation, and global collaboration.Books mentioned in this episode:Lukas Bärfuss, Vaters Kiste: Eine Geschichte über das Erben Joseph Kessel, Les CavaliersUrsula K. Le Guin, The Carrier Bag Theory of FictionChapters:(00:25) Meet Guillaume Othenin-Girard: From Switzerland to Hong Kong(01:56) Navigating the Pandemic in Hong Kong(04:04) Teaching Design and Architecture During COVID(06:55) The Pachacamac Project in Peru(15:38) Exploring the Armenia Project(17:43) Founding the Architectural Land Initiative(21:04) Personal Insights and Reflections(23:24) Conclusion and Podcast Information
We Are ETH is a podcast series featuring stories from Alumni of ETH Zurich around the globe. Hosted by ETH Circle Member and Entrepreneur Susan Kish, We Are ETH brings you conversations with the people who have taken their ETH experience out into the world and turned it into a company, a career, and a way of life.
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