From Research to Policy: Digital Technologies & Health

Switzerland faces pressing ICT-related societal challenges: from AI governance and data stewardship to digital transformation. Yet the insights generated by research often fail to reach policy processes in time, or in a form that decision-makers can act on.

This one-day intensive training offers a first, practical introduction to the Swiss political system. It is designed for researchers and innovators who want to better understand how policy is made and explore concrete ways to contribute to public discourse on ICT-related topics. This edition focuses on the intersection of digital technologies and the health care sector, one of the most urgent and fast-moving areas where technical expertise, practical experience and policy meet.

At the heart of the day is a hands-on case study. Working in small groups, participants tackle a real policy dilemma at the interface of digital technologies and health such as how to deal with personal data ownership and security, AI in diagnostics or digital therapeutics and health monitoring. Applying the frameworks introduced earlier in the day, they identify the relevant actors, weigh different options, and turn technical evidence into a concrete, actionable policy proposal. The exercise puts theory into practice and lays the groundwork for future work at the science–policy interface.

By the end of the day, participants will be able to:

• Understand how political decisions are made in Switzerland and identify the relevant actors, processes, and opportunities for engagement

• Translate complex technical research into clear, evidence-based inputs tailored to policymakers' needs

• Engage in dialogue, build relationships, and contribute constructively to policy development with greater skill and confidence

• Connect with other engaged researchers and experts at the interface of digital technologies and health

Target audience:

The course is open to researchers at all career levels, from both academia and industry. No prior policy experience is required, just curiosity and a willingness to engage.

Event language: English