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.

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:

1. 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.
2. 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.