Laboratories ¶

We maintain several state-of-the-art laboratories which enable us to conduct cutting-edge environmental research. Research scientists use the laboratories for their research in a wide range of disciplines from genetic methods, to plant and microbial analyses, to isotope analyses for the dating of organisms. Our central laboratory performs numerous chemical analyses on behalf of the scientists.

In 2014, we opened Switzerland's first safety-level-3 laboratory and greenhouse, the National Plant Protection Laboratory, in cooperation with the FOEN. This laboratory facilitates research into plant pests and diseases, the propagation of which could cause serious environmental and forestry damage.

Since 2017, we have been operating an isotope laboratory in cooperation with the Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI). This laboratory facilitates research into physical, chemical and biological processes in forests and other ecosystems.

In autumn 2023, we opened our eDNA laboratory. There we isolate genetic material from environmental samples under special cleanliness measures. We also run a clean air laboratory for research into ancient genetic material.

Other laboratories are specially designed to focus on research areas such as small-scale debris flows or tree-ring analysis.