Sebastian Gautsch Appointed as Head of the FSRM
The governing board of the FSRM has appointed Sebastian Gautsch, currently Deputy Director of the Microengineering Section at EPFL, to succeed Philippe Fischer, who will retire at the end of August 2025.
A Microtechnology Expert Dedicated to Education and Innovation
Sebastian Gautsch holds a Master’s degree in Physical Electronics and a PhD in Microsystems from the Institute of Microtechnology (IMT) at the University of Neuchâtel (2001), completed in collaboration with NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL). He specialized in microfabrication and nanotechnologies, and his work contributed to the deployment of an Atomic Force Microscope (AFM) on board the Mars Phoenix mission in 2008.
After several years of research and teaching at the University of Neuchâtel and EPFL, as well as seven years as a lecturer at the Bern University of Applied Sciences, he took on various strategic roles at EPFL’s School of Engineering (STI). He served as internship coordinator for Master’s students and launched the EPFL Industry Day, a key annual event fostering exchanges between academia and industry. In 2021, he was appointed Deputy Director of the Microengineering Section at EPFL.
His commitment and experience in education, applied research, and technology transfer, along with his leadership skills, make him a perfect match for the mission of the Swiss Foundation for Research in Microtechnology (FSRM).
FSRM: A Key Player in Professional Development
In his new role, Sebastian Gautsch will continue the FSRM’s mission as a leading organisation in continuing education for microtechnology and its industrial applications. Since its founding in 1978, the organisation has helped more than 20,000 engineers and technicians expand their expertise through a high-quality training offer tailored to market needs.
The FSRM’s catalogue includes over 200 courses, covering a wide range of fields, including micro- and nanotechnologies, materials, manufacturing, metrology, watchmaking, medical
technology, management, and business leadership. Thanks to its extensive network of experts from both industry and academia, the FSRM ensures that its training is both rigorous and immediately applicable.
FSRM-Kids: Preparing the Next Generation of Engineers
Beyond professional training, the FSRM is also committed to inspiring young people through its FSRM-Kids program. Aware of the challenges related to the next generation of technical professionals, the foundation organises hands-on discovery workshops for children aged 7 to 13, giving them an engaging first experience in engineering.
At the same time, the FSRM raises public awareness of emerging technologies through public lectures on innovative topics and manages the operations of industry associations, such as Micronarc, a platform dedicated to communication and promotion of micro- and nanotechnologies in Western Switzerland.
35 Years of Commitment to Microtechnology Training and Innovation
This transition is also an opportunity to honour Philippe Fischer’s dedication to the field of microtechnology and its ecosystem. This year marks more than three decades of his career at the FSRM. In the 1990s, he pioneered the FSRM’s continuing education programs, making the foundation a widely recognized training provider with a network of over 200 specialized instructors. His work has greatly contributed to the FSRM’s success, particularly through the development of innovative projects, including FSRM-Kids, an initiative aimed at encouraging young people to explore science and technology.
With Sebastian Gautsch taking office on September 1, 2025, the FSRM reaffirms its commitment to excellence and innovation, continuing the initiatives and projects developed by Philippe Fischer over the years.
The FSRM Governing Board
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