News
2026 Cohort of the NOMIS-ETH Fellows
The Centre for Origin and Prevalence of Life is pleased to announce the 2026 cohort of NOMIS-ETH Fellows. Between April and September, two postdoctoral fellows will join the COPL, thanks to the generous support of the NOMIS Foundation.
The Earth formed from local building blocks
Planetary scientists at ETH Zurich have shown that the material that makes up the Earth originates exclusively from the inner solar system. This also sheds new light on the history of our planet’s formation.
Why only a small number of planets are suitable for life
Researchers from ETH Zurich have demonstrated why only a small number of planets have the chemical requirements for life – and why the Earth is so fortunate. Their findings may have consequences for the search for life elsewhere in the universe.
Short-term visitors for Spring 2026
Five researchers will come to ETH Zurich via the short-term visitor programme this spring. Please contact the COPL managing office if you would like to schedule a 1-on-1 meeting with a visitor.
NCCR Genesis approved for funding by Swiss federal government
The Swiss federal government has approved funding for six new National Centres of Competence in Research (NCCRs). NCCR Genesis, one of the six Centres, is led by ETH Zurich in collaboration with the University of Lausanne.
Exploring the Origins of Life: A Holistic Perspective
At the recent COPL Colloquium, John Sutherland presented a compelling vision for unraveling one of science’s most profound mysteries: the origin of life. His talk emphasized that understanding life’s beginnings requires more than isolated experiments – it demands a holistic approach that bridges biology and chemistry.
Three research projects selected for financial support
The Centre for Origin and Prevalence of Life is pleased to announce the selection of three new research projects for financial support in 2025. These projects span topics from the deep origins of life to planetary habitability and engage teams from multiple disciplines.
Welcoming the 2025 NOMIS–ETH Fellows
In early October, the Centre for Origin and Prevalence of Life at ETH Zurich welcomed the new NOMIS–ETH fellows, Dr. Thomas Drant and Dr. Antonin Affholder, who presented their ongoing research projects and visions for the years ahead. The event highlighted two complementary perspectives on the origins and evolution of life – from the chemistry of early Earth to the planetary conditions that shape biospheres.