Exploring the ISSP UL laboratories: strengthening collaboration and experience among LACISE partners
LACISE lab tour at the ISSP UL. Photo - Valdis Jansons.
Following the official project kickoff on May 6, the LACISE consortium partners—including representatives from the Institute of Electronics and Computer Science, Riga Technical University, Paul Scherrer Institute, Zurich University of Applied Sciences, and the Swiss Center for Electronics and Microtechnology—visited the laboratories of the Institute of Solid State Physics, University of Latvia (ISSP UL).
The event began with a brief overview of the institute’s activities, highlighted through key figures and significant milestones, presented by the LACISE coordinator during the official opening. However, the main focus of the visit was to provide participants with a firsthand experience of the state-of-the-art facilities and equipment available at ISSP UL, as well as the talented researchers—both young and seasoned—who operate within these laboratories.
The tour commenced at the Thin Film Laboratory, where attendees learned about ongoing research projects and current initiatives. Next, participants visited the Energy Materials Laboratory, the core research hub for activities related to the LACISE project. The laboratory’s lead researcher, Ainārs Knoks, introduced the team’s hydrogen research, sharing insights into the innovative hydrogen production technologies under development. Guests were also given the opportunity to observe the specialized equipment used by the scientists on a daily basis.
LACISE partners at the ISSP UL labs. Photo - Valdis Jansons.
Subsequently, the visitors explored other sections of the Energy Materials Laboratory, which primarily focuses on research into batteries and supercapacitors. Gints Kučinskis, head of the laboratory and coordinator of the LACISE project, discussed the laboratory’s research directions and ongoing projects. The session concluded with an engaging Q&A session, allowing guests to interact directly with the research team.
The tour’s final stop was the largest of the ISSP UL labs—the Spectroscopy Laboratory. Its head, Anatolijs Šarakovskis, provided a detailed overview of the laboratory’s advanced instrumentation and the types of research enabled by each piece of equipment. He outlined the laboratory’s main research areas and responded to questions from the participants.
Informal discussion after lab tour. Photo - Valdis Jansons.
Following the laboratory visits, attendees gathered for a final discussion session. This informal segment allowed partners to reflect on what they had seen and learned, thereby fostering a better mutual understanding. It also served as an opportunity to strengthen personal connections, which are vital for effective collaboration throughout the project. Building trust and camaraderie among partners is essential for smooth communication and the successful implementation of the project.
Project kickoff event features first LACISE Stakeholder Advisory Board meeting
The LACISE project officially commenced with an inspiring kickoff event at the Institute of Solid State Physics, University of Latvia, on May 6. A key feature was the lively panel discussion, which involved members of the Stakeholder Advisory Board (SAB) who shared their insights, expectations, and strategic perspectives on the project’s path forward.
Stakeholder contributions and key messages
Līna Sarma, Riga Tech Girls: Highlighted the importance of talent development, emphasizing that passion drives progress and attracts skilled individuals. She emphasized the importance of effective communication strategies to effectively convey the project’s message and attract the right partners and students.
Pēteris Lesničenoks, Latvenergo: Focused on aligning research with real-world applications. He emphasized the importance of supporting educational programs and the need for clear, practical outcomes that benefit the energy grid.
Aleksandrs Parfinovičs, NACO: Advocated for early involvement of industry experts in project planning to provide scalable advice. He pointed out the lack of standardized methods for evaluating hydrogen technologies, calling for the development of such standards to facilitate broader industry adoption.
Mārtiņš Grels, RIX: Stressed the importance of attracting and nurturing young talent, noting that some industry professionals may hesitate or lack confidence. He encouraged proactive engagement and more frequent updates on hydrogen-related progress, including annual reviews. He also called for feedback on the usability of new technologies and their validation in real-world settings.
Kaspars Liepiņš, Hydrogen Alliance: Focused on the potential of batteries and hydrogen technologies, advocating for meaningful and innovative solutions while minimizing bureaucracy. He expressed interest in EU venture capital and startup opportunities, emphasizing the need to select projects with real market potential.
Minglon He, ABB (remote): Emphasized the importance of predictive models and algorithms, especially for frequency regulation as renewable energy sources increase. He highlighted the role of batteries, hydropower, and gas in maintaining grid stability. He also stressed that industry R&D is largely internal, but collaborative knowledge sharing is essential for innovation. He encouraged engaging students in industry-relevant topics and called for regular technical exchanges and updates to ensure alignment and tangible outcomes, such as grid integration and hydrogen applications.
Kristaps Dambis, Drive eO: Advocated for a global perspective, noting that world-class research must be locally relevant. He emphasized the importance of direct communication and collaboration with scientists, as well as the involvement of young talent in the broader energy transition.
Common themes and future outlook
The panel underscored several recurring themes critical to the project’s success:
- The necessity of talent development and inspiring the next generation of innovators.
- The importance of collaboration across sectors and open communication channels.
- Bridging research and commercialization to bring market-ready solutions.
- Developing standardized evaluation frameworks, particularly for hydrogen technologies.
- Ensuring scientist involvement as consultants to guide practical development and validate results.
The panel emphasized the importance of continuous dialogue, regular technical exchanges, and stakeholder engagement to ensure the LACISE project remains aligned with industry needs and scientific advancements. The diverse expertise and shared commitment of the advisory board set a strong foundation for the project’s impactful journey toward sustainable energy solutions.
Latvia and Switzerland collaborate on innovations in applied research projects
On June 10, 2025, the Minister Cabinet of Latvia approved an initiative led by the Ministry of Education and Science, which envisages continuing the applied research program "Partnership in Applied Research Areas: Innovative Materials, Information and Communication Technologies and Smart Energy" implemented within the framework of the Latvian-Swiss Cooperation Program.
In a radio news story prepared by the National Radio journalist Ilze Kuzmina and broadcasted on June 18, the essence of the Applied Research program is explained. Switzerland and Latvia are collaborating on innovative projects to improve asphalt, develop environmentally friendly batteries, and produce hydrogen. The Swiss-Latvian Applied Research program, with Switzerland investing over 10 million euros and Latvia contributing under two million euros, aims to drive technological progress and economic growth. Although Switzerland provides the majority of funding, about two-thirds of the total—more than 12 million euros—will benefit Latvia directly.
Switzerland’s investment is motivated by its desire to strengthen cooperation with the European Union, of which Latvia is a member. Lauma Sīka, Deputy Director of the Department of Higher Education, Science and Innovation of Latvia’s Ministry of Education and Science, explains that Switzerland is building bilateral research programs with EU countries, including Latvia, to promote economic transformation and innovation through joint projects.
The Applied Research programme is implemented in two projects – LACHMAT (dedicated to research on more durable, sustainable and cheaper asphalt and concrete materials) and LACISE. The latter focuses on energy storage and transmission. Project partners include the Institute of Solid State Physics, University of Latvia (ISSP UL) (the coordinator of the LACISE project), Riga Technical University (RTU), the Institute of Electronics and Computer Science (IECS) on the Latvian side, and the Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI), Zurich University of Applied Sciences, and Swiss Center for Electronics (ZHAW) and Microtechnology on the Swiss side (CSEM).
The LACISE project coordinator and head of the Energy Materials Laboratory of the ISSP UL, Dr. phys. Gints Kučinskis, in the radio story, explains that his institution is responsible for the storage component. ISSP UL, in collaboration with Swiss colleagues, develops new materials to make batteries last longer and deliver more power, thus creating better renewable energy storage solutions and reducing the amount of critical materials used. The project also explores the possibility of using aluminum waste from end-of-life window frames or solar panels to produce hydrogen. Researchers at RTU's Institute of Materials and Surface Technologies will focus on the development of new catalysts to extract hydrogen from water using sunlight. The work in this area will be carried out in collaboration with the PSI, where decades of knowledge will give students and young scientists the opportunity to gain experience from experts in the field, work with advanced technologies, and use available synchrotron radiation for in-depth materials research.
Regarding batteries, Kučinskis elaborated that two types of materials are to be developed to serve as cathodes, which are the most expensive parts of batteries. The research aims to explore how a cobalt-free material, made from more accessible resources, could be used in the cathode, making it more environmentally friendly without compromising performance. The second material under investigation is lithium iron manganese phosphate, intended for economy-class lithium-ion batteries that tend to be large and heavy.
The Latvian partner, IECS, which specializes in information technology and communication solutions to ensure grid stability, is also involved in the project. They will collaborate closely with the Swiss ZHAW and CSEM in using AI to develop innovative monitoring tools that will allow power grid faults to be quickly identified and resolved, significantly improving the security of the electricity supply. At the same time, planning tools are being developed to facilitate the expansion of electricity grids and their integration with renewable energy sources. Using real-time data and modern ICT technologies, an optimisation model is developed that will ensure grid stability even under changing renewable energy generation conditions.
Kučinskis explained that as renewable energy sources produce more electricity, the requirements for electricity grids are evolving, especially in their capacity to store and balance the energy generated. While gas turbines can be turned off when there is surplus electricity, the sun and wind cannot be halted.
The Ministry of Education and Science representative Lauma Sīka emphasized in the radio story that balancing the electricity grid is a highly relevant and complex research area. She also noted that Swiss scientists at ZHAW and CSEM, with whom collaboration takes place, have accumulated valuable experience in this field.
The project’s main objective is to learn from Swiss partners, but it also aims to strengthen Latvian scientific capacity and foster mutual exchange. Kučinskis highlighted that the cooperation involves not only learning but also leveraging areas where Latvian research institutions are equally strong or even stronger. To strengthen the ties of both countries’ researchers, a Swiss-Latvian Competence Center for Energy Storage and Smart Grids has been established within the scope of the project.
Overall, the Swiss-Latvian Applied Research program is expected to involve 55 young scientists and 29 more experienced researchers.
President of Latvia Edgars Rinkēvičs visits the Institute of Solid State Physics, University of Latvia, and gets acquainted with the research carried out in the LACISE project
At the end of May, the Institute of Solid State Physics, University of Latvia (ISSP UL), had the honour of hosting the President of Latvia, Edgars Rinkēvičs. During his visit, the President observed the daily work of the laboratories and the cleanroom environment, as well as heard success stories from the ISSP UL, highlighting the interaction of science with society.
The first laboratory the President visited was the Energy Materials Laboratory, where the Swiss-Latvian Cooperation Programme project LACISE is being implemented. The head of the laboratory and project coordinator Dr. phys. Gints Kučinskis, shared exciting new developments in battery sustainability and efficiency research, as well as the development of hydrogen production technologies. "It was a great pleasure to welcome the President of Latvia to the laboratory and to introduce him to our work, in particular the recently launched LACISE project, which not only promotes close cooperation between Latvian and Swiss scientists in sustainable energy but also aims to attract young people to the sciences, which will ensure the future generation of Latvian scientists."
During his visit, the President also visited other ISSP UL laboratories, met with PhD students, and became acquainted with sensor technologies developed at the Institute, which have already found practical applications in industry, as well as achievements in microfluidics, a new field in Latvia.
"The Institute of Solid State Physics is one of the driving forces behind the development of Latvia’s high-tech industry. The Institute's work in solid state and new materials research makes a significant contribution to industries such as electronics, energy, medical technology, telecommunications, and others. [...] At the Institute, I met many of the new generation of researchers who are passionate and enthusiastic about researching issues of relevance to business and society. They are developing technologies that make batteries more powerful and longer-lasting, looking for more environmentally friendly alternatives for energy production and storage, and improving various electronic devices," reflected the President on the visit.
The President's visit to the ISSP UL not only demonstrated Latvia's potential in science and technology but also highlighted the importance of international cooperation and innovation as key drivers of sustainable development.
The Swiss-Latvian Cooperation Programme project LACISE aims to address today's most pressing energy challenges and to educate the next generation of scientists. This project promotes close cooperation between Latvian and Swiss scientists. The project involves the research and development of solutions for both short-term implementation and long-term development in key energy sectors, contributing to the stability of the energy supply system, the advancement of next-generation batteries, and the enhancement of hydrogen production technologies.Fostering Future Scientists: LACISE Supports the ISSP UL Solar Cup 2025 Competition
Solar Cup 2025 participants
On May 24, the LACISE project actively contributed to the organization and success of the Solar Cup student competition, hosted by the Institute of Solid State Physics at the University of Latvia (ISSP UL). This event marked the seventeenth edition of the Solar Cup, an inspiring initiative designed to ignite interest in science, engineering, and renewable energy among students in grades 5–12, particularly encouraging the participation of girls in STEM fields.
Representatives from the LACISE project from the Energy Materials Laboratory played a key role in both organizing and conducting the competition. In line with LACISE’s core goal to raise awareness of STEM among young people, especially girls, the project proudly sponsored awards for outstanding teams in two categories: the best girls’ team and the most innovative vehicle design.
The event was officially opened by Andris Anspoks, Director of ISSP UL, who delivered inspiring words to motivate students, teachers, and organizers alike. Despite challenging weather conditions, thanks to the dedicated ISSP UL team, the event took place indoors at the institute, utilizing halogen lamps as the light source for model testing.
The competition showcased a variety of disciplines: boat models competed in a pool, while vehicle models raced on a specially designed track, testing their speed and power. Final scores combined results from three assessments: submitted sketches and videos, model performance, and a knowledge test covering the theoretical aspects of solar energy, encouraging students to deepen their understanding of STEM topics.
The overall winners were a girls’ team from Riga Iļģuciems Elementary School—“Emi and KaTe” (Katrīna Teivāne and Emīlija Emma Mendre, consulted by Normunds Teivāns). This team also received the LACISE award for the best girls’ team, highlighting the project’s commitment to promoting female participation in STEM. The podium was completed by R&M from Cēsis (second place) and MegaNightW from Riga 88th Secondary School (third place). The LACISE award for the most innovative model was presented to “Saules verķis” from RTU Engineering Secondary School, represented by Līva Krūza and Una Undīne Ungure, consulting teacher Virgīnija Vītola.
Team “Emi un KaTe” and representative of the "Saules verķis" team
Beyond vehicle disciplines, participants engaged in additional activities aimed at increasing their understanding of energy and energy efficiency, organized in collaboration with Elektrum and the Riga Energy Agency. Scientific experiments demonstrated by RTU Faculty of Natural Sciences and Technology representatives captivated the audience. Attendees also had the opportunity to explore electric vehicles and see live demonstrations courtesy of the Electric Car Association of Latvia.
This year, the Solar Cup 2025 brought together 46 teams comprising 116 students and 32 teachers from across Latvia—from Ventspils and Liepāja to Cēsis, Valka, Ranka, Ilūkste, and Krāslava—demonstrating a growing interest in STEM education nationwide.
The LACISE project is delighted that events like these inspire young people, especially girls, to pursue careers in engineering and natural sciences. Encouraging the next generation of scientists and innovators is vital for scientific progress and a brighter, more sustainable future.
The organizers thank their partners—the Freeport of Riga Authority, Riga Energy Agency—and supporters, including SEB Bank, Elektrum, RIX Riga Airport, Electric Vehicle Association of Latvia, Brain Games, Magebit, the LACISE project, RTU Faculty of Natural Sciences and Technology, and many others.
Event organizers: ISSP UL and ISSP UL Foundation.
Winners of all categories and additional photos are available here.
LACISE project representatives participate in the kick-off of the Swiss-Latvian Cooperation Programme ‘Applied Research’ sibling project
Photo: Ieva Romaško
On May 22, the Swiss-Latvian Cooperation Programme ‘Applied Research’ project LACHMAT was officially launched at Riga Technical University (RTU). The opening event was attended by Andris Anspoks, director of the LACISE project’s coordinating institution—the Institute of Solid State Physics, University of Latvia—and Maija Bebre, administrative coordinator.
During the event, a Memorandum of Cooperation was signed between RTU, Latvian State Roads (Latvijas Valsts Ceļi), the Latvian Concrete Association (Latvijas Betona Savienība), and the Latvian Road Builders Association (Latvijas Ceļu Būvētājs). The signatories committed to supporting RTU in developing advanced, sustainable concrete and asphalt technologies tailored to market needs.
The LACHMAT project is implemented collaboratively by RTU’s Faculties of Civil and Mechanical Engineering, Science and Technology, and Computer Science, Information Technology and Energy, in partnership with the Swiss Federal Laboratory for Materials Science and Technology (Empa).
The project will run until 2029, fostering close cooperation among RTU researchers across various faculties and Empa scientists. The collaboration aims to develop and accelerate market-ready technologies for reusing road pavements and incorporating bio-based additives in asphalt, advancing environmentally friendly practices in road construction. Specific goals include developing high-performance sprayed concrete to extend bridge lifespans and reduce reconstruction needs, and creating sensor technologies embedded in roadway surfaces to monitor pavement conditions and traffic patterns. These sensors will also contribute to climate adaptation strategies through data collection. Additionally, scientists will work on promoting the sustainability of 3D-printed concrete by developing mixes using locally sourced minerals.
The ‘Applied Research’ programme is part of Switzerland’s contribution to support EU member states in fostering scientific excellence, innovation, and economic growth. With a total fund of €12.3 million, it aims to enhance Latvia’s research capacity, promote innovation, and strengthen international collaboration.
Empowering the future: Launch of the Swiss-Latvian Cooperation Programme project LACISE for sustainable energy and STEM engagement
Photo: Valdis Jansons
On May 6, an ambitious collaboration between Switzerland and Latvia to advance sustainable energy development and engage youth in STEM was officially launched at the Institute of Solid State Physics, University of Latvia (ISSP UL).
The event was honoured by Christoph Liechti, Co-Head of the Swiss Contribution Office at the Embassy of Switzerland in Latvia; Lauma Sīka, Deputy Director of the Department of Higher Education, Science and Innovation at the Ministry of Education and Science of Latvia; Kaspars Ozols, Deputy Director for Development at the Institute of Electronics and Computer Science (EDI); and Andris Anspoks, Director of the ISSP UL. The kick-off event also welcomed representatives from the Latvian Council of Science and industry, alongside consortium partners from both Switzerland and Latvia.
During the opening remarks, the significance of the LACISE project was underscored in light of current global events, particularly in relation to securing Latvia's energy independence and addressing the risks of widespread blackouts, such as those recently experienced in Southern Europe. The project consortium's goals of innovating new battery materials and hydrogen production technologies were commended. Attendees expressed optimism regarding the collaboration between Swiss and Latvian scientists, envisioning that LACISE would pave the way for deeper partnerships in the energy sector and facilitate the development of additional joint project proposals for international funding opportunities.
Gints Kučinskis, Lauma Sīka, Kaspars Ozols, Andris Anspoks, Christoph Liechti. Photo: Valdis Jansons
Dr. phys. Gints Kučinskis, the LACISE project coordinator from ISSP UL, commented on the project's potential impact: “This project will substantially advance research in smart grids, energy storage technologies, batteries, and hydrogen energy materials. It promotes sustainable collaborations with leading Swiss research institutions, offering a valuable platform for high-caliber research activities over the next 4.5 years. Additionally, it provides opportunities for training and mentoring students, equipping them to become future scientists and industry experts in these critical and rapidly evolving fields.”
The event also featured industry representatives from organizations including ABB (Switzerland), Naco Technologies (Latvia), Latvenergo (Latvia), Drive eO (Latvia), Riga Airport, the Latvian Hydrogen Alliance, the Latvian Hydrogen Association, and the Riga TechGirls platform. They participated in establishing a Stakeholder Advisory Board and signing a Memorandum of Understanding that formalizes cooperation within the project. Following these activities, Andris Anspoks invited industry representatives to engage in a panel discussion addressing the challenges that LACISE could help tackle in the energy sector, strategies for attracting new talent to science, and insights into the collaborative process between science and industry.
Stakeholder Advisory Board members: Aleksandrs Parfinovičs, Mārtiņš Grels, Kristaps Dambis, Pēteris Lesničenoks, Anna Andersone, Kaspars Liepiņš. Photo: Valdis Jansons
The launch of LACISE also served as the inception of the Swiss-Latvian Competence Centre, which aims to act as a hub for promoting collaboration, innovation, and knowledge exchange between Switzerland and Latvia. This centre will provide valuable insights into joint projects and research, host workshops and events to enhance bilateral cooperation.
Stakeholder Advisory Board discussion. Photo: Valdis Jansons
Director of the ISSP UL, Dr. phys. Andris Anspoks: "This project holds great significance for our institute, as it brings together the excellence of both Swiss and Latvian expertise to establish a pioneering centre dedicated to advancing smart energy solutions. Moreover, LACISE will strengthen our collaboration with RTU, EDI, and Swiss partners—leaders in the development of innovative energy technologies—further positioning us at the forefront of this vital field.”
About the Project:
The LACISE project is being implemented as part of the Swiss-Latvian Cooperation Program "Applied Research," overseen by the Ministry of Education and Science of Latvia and the Latvian Council of Science. The total funding for the program amounts to 12,352,941 euros, with Swiss co-financing at 85% or 10,500,000 euros, and Latvian state budget co-financing at 15% or 1,852,941 euros.
Operating from 2025 to 2029, the LACISE project is dedicated to addressing some of today's most pressing energy challenges while simultaneously nurturing the next generation of scientists. It fosters close collaboration among Latvian and Swiss scientists from the ISSP UL, the Institute of Electronics and Computer Science (EDI), Riga Technical University (RTU), Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI), Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW), and the Swiss Centre for Electronics and Microtechnology (CSEM).
Project partners: Anna Mutule (EDI), Philippe Dallemagne (CSEM), Andris Šutka (RTU), Līga Grīnberga (ISSP UL, Sigita Trabesinger (PSI), Petr Korba (ZHAW). Photo: Valdis Jansons.
The project is committed to researching and developing solutions that are both immediately applicable and geared toward long-term advancement in essential energy sectors. It aims to enhance the stability of energy supply systems, create next-generation batteries, and improve hydrogen production technologies. LACISE strongly emphasizes engaging youth, particularly young women, in STEM fields to ensure diverse perspectives and ideas that can drive innovation and effectively address today’s complex scientific challenges.
Latvian and Swiss scientists join forces to develop sustainable energy and engage youth in STEM
On May 6, an ambitious Swiss-Latvian Cooperation Program “Applied Research” project in the fields of ICT and smart energy, LACISE, will be launched at the Institute of Solid State Physics of the University of Latvia (ISSP UL).
Representatives from the Swiss Embassy, the Latvian Ministry of Education and Science, the Latvian Council of Science, industry, and project consortium partners from Switzerland and Latvia will participate in the opening event.
During the event, industry representatives from organisations such as Naco Technologies, Latvenergo, Riga Airport, the Latvian Hydrogen Association, and the Riga TechGirls platform will participate in the establishment and discussion of the Stakeholder Advisory Board. The members of the Stakeholder Advisory Board will sign a memorandum of intent for the cooperation formed within the project, aimed at achieving its objectives. The LACISE opening event will also mark the beginning of a Swiss-Latvian Competence Centre.
The Swiss-Latvian Cooperation Program project LACISE (2025-2029) will focus on addressing today’s most pressing energy challenges while educating the next generation of scientists. Furthermore, the project aims to encourage close collaboration between Latvian and Swiss researchers from the Institute of Solid State Physics (ISSP UL), the Institute of Electronics and Computer Science (EDI), Riga Technical University (RTU), the Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI), the Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW) and the Swiss Center for Electronics and Microtechnology (CSEM).
The project will develop both short-term and long-term solutions in key energy sectors, contributing to the stability of the energy supply system, the development of next-generation batteries, and advancements in hydrogen production technologies. A significant emphasis will be placed on engaging young people, particularly girls, in STEM fields to enhance youth participation in these areas, ensuring a diverse range of perspectives and ideas to foster innovation and effectively address complex scientific challenges in the future.
Through close collaboration between Switzerland and Latvia, this ambitious research program is being implemented to strengthen Latvia's scientific capabilities and growth. It also promotes the development of innovative solutions, supports investment in the circular economy, encourages environmental recovery, and fosters cooperation with industry. This collaborative effort ensures that the work invested leads to growth and innovation in the energy sector, shaping the future of Latvia.
LACISE at the Baltic's Largest Physics Festival: Inspiring the Next Generation in STEM
On April 12, the Baltic region's largest physics festival took place in Riga, offering children, young people, and adults the chance to explore the exciting world of physics and future STEM careers through activities organized by Latvian and Estonian science centers, universities, and other institutions.
The Institute of Solid State Physics, University of Latvia (ISSP UL) and its Energy Materials Laboratory also participated in the festival, representing the “LACISE” project at the event and demonstrating energy harvesting and storage technologies. At the ISSP UL knowledge station, attendees learned about concepts such as the Seebeck effect, creating voltage from body heat, and painting with the help of centrifugal force.
Researchers from ISSP UL also participated in a ‘meet-and-greet’ event, allowing attendees to have one-on-one, interview-style discussions. Successful interviews could potentially lead to internship offers.
The event also marked the final stage of the school erudition and physics competition FIZMIX, where the team from Riga Secondary School No. 40 won the thirtieth edition of the competition.
The goals of the FIZMIX erudition contest and the "Elektrum" Physics Festival are to promote interest in the exact sciences among youth, demonstrate how to apply theoretical knowledge practically, and encourage young people to pursue careers in these fields.
This year's festival theme was "Mission: The Future." The event lasted all day and provided visitors of all ages with opportunities to participate in creative workshops and experiments that challenged both their intellectual and physical abilities.
Every year, young people and families appreciate the chance to spend meaningful time together, learn something new, and get inspired to study STEM subjects. The festival attracts around 4,000 attendees annually.
More information in Latvian.Applied Research project LACISE offers career opportunities at the annual RTU Career Day
On Friday, March 14, the Swiss-Latvia Cooperation project LACISE was represented at the Institute of Solid State Physics, University of Latvia’s (ISSP UL) stand at the largest career orientation event in Latvia, Career Day 2025. The event attracted students, recent graduates, and career enthusiasts eager to explore various professional opportunities.
The LACISE project offered two positions:
1) Postdoctoral Researcher in Hydrogen Production from Aluminum Waste to join the international LACISE project team. This position will focus on investigating the use of aluminum waste for hydrogen production, including the utilization of seawater, and developing prototypes. The candidate will conduct in-depth studies on reaction mechanisms, analyze experimental data, and collaborate with international partners, spending 1 to 3 months each year at the Paul Scherrer Institute in Switzerland.
Requirements include a PhD in physics, chemistry, or materials science, experience in experimental work and catalysis, and strong proficiency in English.
2)
Research Assistant in Hydrogen
Production from Aluminum Waste
We are looking for a doctoral student to
join the LACISE project team. This position will focus on researching the
reaction mechanisms between aluminum waste and water for the production of
hydrogen. It is intended for current or prospective PhD students with an
interest in sustainable technology and circular economy approaches.
Responsibilities include conducting experimental research, analyzing catalysts, and collaborating with international partners. Candidates should hold a Master's degree in a relevant field, possess experience in experimental research and data analysis, and demonstrate proficiency in English.
Career Day 2025 provided its attendees with a wide array of activities, including an exploration of job and internship opportunities across various companies, visits to numerous informational stands showcasing diverse industries, and participation in engaging activities and discussions.
The primary goal of Career Day is to facilitate meaningful interactions between companies and future professionals. This platform enables students to gain valuable insights into various industries and gain a deeper understanding of their chosen professions, while companies can connect with potential employees and interns.
LACISE project showcased at Universs@LU by the Energy Materials Laboratory of the Institute of Solid State Physics, University of Latvia
On February 21-22, the University of Latvia hosted the Universs@LU study festival, attracting prospective students from across the country. This event provided detailed information on study opportunities not only at the University of Latvia but also at other Latvian universities, offering visitors a chance to explore a wide range of academic programs.
The Institute of Solid State Physics, University of Latvia (ISSP UL), presented the LACISE project at their stand. Visitors learned about the Energy Materials Laboratory's research on energy storage materials and were captivated by the "Exploding Bubbles - the Power of Hydrogen" experiment. Attendees were also given the opportunity to express their interest in various LACISE activities, including developing research papers for school students, volunteering with scientists, internships, events, competitions, and excursions to the ISSP UL.
The primary goal of the LACISE project at the event was to showcase the diverse STEM education opportunities, particularly in the field of energy storage. The project aimed to inspire young people to pursue science and emphasize the significance of these fields for future innovation and development.
At the Universs@LU study festival, visitors were presented with a diverse array of over 150 high-quality study programs to explore. They also had the opportunity to participate in creative activities designed to help them discover their career path and explore various professions. The festival offered a unique opportunity for visitors to meet prospective lecturers and fellow students, thereby fostering a sense of community.
The organizers ensured that each visitor left feeling inspired and informed about their future, thereby fostering a positive and supportive environment in which young people could explore their interests and potential.Launching the Swiss-Latvian Cooperation Programme ‘Applied Research’: Scientists Engage with Youth at the "School 2025" Exhibition
On February 21, the international education exhibition "School 2025" hosted the launch event of the Swiss-Latvian Cooperation Programme ‘Applied Research’ titled "The Impossible is Possible". Scientists and innovation creators introduced the audience to ongoing research projects, demonstrating that science can be a viable future opportunity for every young person.
During the opening event, speakers addressed young people standing at the crossroads of their education and career choices, sharing insights into the planned achievements of the programme’s projects and encouraging them to consider a future in science. The event combined improvisation, music, and interactive activities to inspire the younger generation to explore science and innovation.
Significant International Cooperation
Addressing the exhibition visitors, Ambassador of the Swiss Confederation Martin Michelet, emphasized the importance of cooperation not only in science but also in promoting security and economic growth in Europe: "As we learn from the news every day, we cannot be safe and prosperous alone. Switzerland's contribution and this programme are tangible expressions of Swiss solidarity and partnership with our European friends and allies. The Applied Research programme aligns with these cooperation needs: through partnerships, we foster economic transformation and sustainable growth. Academic research leads to practical applications that benefit both society and businesses."
Meanwhile, Silvija Amatniece, Parliamentary Secretary at the Ministry of Education and Science, highlighted: "We can take pride in the Swiss government’s recognition of Latvia's scientific potential. Today, science and innovation are the driving forces of development. They help tackle major challenges – from climate change and sustainable infrastructure to energy sustainability. The Switzerland–Latvia collaboration is precisely about solutions that emerge when scientists from different countries join forces to achieve common goals, shaping new future opportunities."
Elita Zondaka, Director of the International Cooperation Programme Projects Department at the Latvian Council of Science, drew attention to an important aspect concerning young people, science, and future choices: "Science is a bridge between ideas and their realization. In this programme, Swiss and Latvian researchers will work together to develop sustainable solutions, improve energy systems, enhance infrastructure, and drive Latvia’s economic growth. This programme is not just an investment in science—it is also an opportunity for young people to see how innovation and research shape our future and to actively participate in its creation."
During the event, representatives from both Latvian and Swiss scientific institutions implementing projects supported by the Switzerland–Latvia Cooperation Programme shared personal stories about their journeys in science. They provided valuable insights into how they reached their goals and introduced young people to the opportunities available through these projects.
Two Key Projects in Latvia-Switzerland Partnership
Within the "Applied Research" programme, two high-level scientific projects are being implemented:
- LACHMAT Project: Riga Technical University collaborates with Swiss partners to develop sustainable and innovative road pavement and concrete solutions. The project aims to extend the lifespan of asphalt surfaces, create 3D-printed concrete materials, and reduce carbon emissions.
- LACISE Project: The University of Latvia’s Institute of Solid State Physics, in cooperation with Swiss and Latvian partners, is working on energy storage and smart grid improvements. The project focuses on developing new battery materials, enhancing catalysts for hydrogen production, and advancing energy efficiency solutions.
The Switzerland–Latvia Cooperation Programme is part of Switzerland’s contribution to European Union member states, aiming to promote scientific excellence, innovation, and economic development. Through this programme, €12.3 million is available to support the advancement of Latvian science and research, enabling the implementation of significant projects, the creation of innovations, and the strengthening of international cooperation.
Inspiring Future Innovators
The event was hosted by the improvisation group "Gandrīz Draugi", with musical performances by Edavārdi and Katō. Interactive science and technology quizzes gave young participants the chance to win training sessions with RigaTechGirls, visits to science centers, and strategic board games. Attendees could also explore researchLatvia's annual traveling exhibition "Science for Latvia 2025", showcasing 12 remarkable scientists, and test their knowledge in a quiz about key intersections between Switzerland and Latvia.
The event demonstrated that science can be not only engaging and innovative but also accessible to everyone. Initiatives like this inspire young people to explore the world and shape their future in science.
