Program Overview
Academic Residency at Swissnex in San Francisco
The Academic Residency at Swissnex San Francisco offers Swiss researchers, professors, and lecturers an immersive experience in one of the world’s most innovative ecosystems. Participants can join individually or as part of a cohort centered on a shared academic topic, combining independent exploration with collaborative learning.
The residency program provides participants with an immersion into the San Francisco Bay Area innovation ecosystem that helps them take their research project to the next level. Swissnex supports participants to enrich their research projects with insights and inspiration from the San Francisco Bay Area and helps them to collaborate with the local ecosystem by finding interesting partners, learning new skills and knowledge, and expanding their mindset in terms of impact, inclusivity, and more.
The program includes training sessions and workshops, introductions to relevant ecosystem players, regular check-ins, and access to Swissnex’s workspace at Pier 17.
Details
Participants
Applicants for this program must be researchers, professors, or lecturers of a Swiss academic institution and must organize funding to cover the expenses of this program with their institution.
Duration
Participants can choose between different program lengths:
Basic: 2-Week Residency
- Dedicated workspace at Swissnex with high-speed Wi-Fi and shared facilities
- Access to Swissnex events and meeting spaces
- Community perks (Swiss coffee, chocolate, networking opportunities)
Classic: 2-4 Week Residency
Includes all Basic services, plus:
- Pre-Travel Preparation: SMART goal-setting sessions, networking tips, program alignment
- On-Site Coaching: Bi-weekly individual check-ins, coaching in storytelling, networking, and growth mindset
- Visibility & Networking:
- Tailored introductions to 4+ key contacts in the Bay Area ecosystem
- (Optional) Visits to relevant organizations (e.g., UCSF, Stanford, UC Berkeley)
- Social media and website features during and after the residency
- (Optional) Event at Pier 17 (fireside discussion, etc.) with a curated audience
Comprehensive: 4-8 Week Residency
Includes all Classic services, plus:
- Continued Coaching: Ongoing support from Swissnex staff for project development and brainstorming
- Additional Networking: More tailored introductions beyond the initial 4+ contacts
- Expanded Visibility: Opportunities to present projects via articles, talks, and podcasts
Topic of the Residency
The program is open to all disciplines. For 2025, Swissnex has a programmatic focus on:
- Robotics
- Climate Change & Sustainability
- Artificial Intelligence
- Health & Life Sciences
Costs
For more details and information about pricing, please contact [email protected].
By participating in our programs, you consent to being filmed and/or photographed, and you grant Swissnex permission to use your image on our website and for marketing purposes.