The online magazine of the University of Bern

Psychologist Jamie Cummins has developed an AI tool that helps researchers assess the quality of scientific publications. In this interview, he explains how it works—and why AI doesn’t replace humans.

Thanks to the support of the Diabetes Center Berne (DCB), the University of Bern is establishing a new endowed lectureship at the Institute of Infectious Diseases (IFIK). Its aim is to investigate the role of the gut microbiome in metabolic diseases such as obesity, diabetes and related diseases and to develop new approaches to prevention and treatment.

Kathrin Summermatter, Head of the Bern Biosafety Center, was part of an expert panel on the origins of Covid. In the interview, she talks about the difficult collaboration with China and the importance of the University of Bern's commitment to the WHO.

Bernese researchers have for the first time studied the immune system of brown trout at the single-cell level. The study shows the diversity of the immune system of this ecologically important fish species and demonstrates that rearing conditions leave traces in immune cells.

After twelve years, the National Center of Competence in Research (NCCR) PlanetS came to a close at the end of May. Its director, Nicolas Thomas, looks back on the internationally acclaimed planetary research conducted at the Universities of Bern, Geneva, and Zurich, as well as at ETH Zurich, and introduces the follow-up project, SIPS.

Oliver Schib has developed a new model for planet formation. His computer simulations show how the gas and dust disks around young stars develop and how instabilities can lead directly to the formation of giant planets.

The University of Bern’s newly established Master’s program “Space Sciences and Astronomy” begins in the Fall of 2026. Director of Studies Andrea Fortier talks about Bernese space heritage, what students can expect from the new program, and why it matters.

A research team has provided the first experimental evidence – obtained during parabolic flights in zero gravity – that a key physical process actually occurs under conditions similar to those in planet formation regions.

Language without writing? Hard to imagine. In this interview, Hanne Griessmann and Roland Reichen explain how writing emerged, why it still shapes us today and why handwriting will probably stay with us for some time to come.

Racism affects the whole of society – including universities. At a conference at the University of Bern, scholars took a critical look at research and teaching in academia and provided some strategies for combatting racism.

Speak clearly, listen attentively, defuse conflicts: Eva Schürch from the Institute of Psychology teaches conversation management and gives in the video tips and tricks for good communication in everyday working life.

A comprehensive meta-study led by Christa Nater examines how misogynistic content in the media influences people’s attitudes. While people of all genders react similarly to subtle hostility, men exhibit stronger negative reactions to explicit violence.