About
Purpose
The ETH-HSG Manufacturing Alliance aims to enhance the competitiveness of the Swiss manufacturing industry through world-class research and talent development. By fostering collaboration between industry leaders, academic researchers, and PhD scholars, the alliance drives innovation, efficiency, and sustainability in manufacturing. This includes accelerating technology adoption, strengthening the industry’s appeal as a career destination, and advancing sustainable practices.
The alliance aims to establish a leading knowledge hub where Swiss and international companies collaborate with top researchers to tackle critical operational challenges and shape the future of manufacturing.
How We Work & Research Areas
The ETH-HSG Manufacturing Alliance connects companies with PhD researchers to tackle key challenges in manufacturing. Member fees support PhD research under the leadership of Prof. Friedli and Prof. Netland, ensuring industry relevance. Companies actively engage in Alliance activities and benefit from research insights with full transparency at ETH and HSG.
The Alliance addresses key challenges in manufacturing, including:
• Smart Manufacturing: AI-driven production and analytics.
• Lean Manufacturing of the Future: Integrating digital tools into lean systems.
• Supply Chain Resilience: Balancing efficiency and adaptability.
• Sustainable Manufacturing: Reducing environmental impact.
• Knowledge Retention: Overcoming workforce challenges.
Research Partners
ETH Zurich
Chair of Production & Operations Management
The Production & Operations Management Group at ETH Zurich focuses on advancing cutting-edge research in manufacturing, logistics, and supply chain optimization. With a strong emphasis on AI-driven production, lean management, and sustainable operations, the group develops innovative methodologies to improve industrial automation, smart factory integration, and supply chain resilience. Their work supports industry leaders in achieving efficiency, flexibility, and sustainability through data-driven decision-making and operational excellence.
University of St.Gallen
Institute of Technology Management
The Institute of Technology Management (ITEM-HSG) at the University of St.Gallen specializes in the intersection of business strategy, technology, and industrial transformation. Their research addresses challenges in global production networks, digital manufacturing, and supply chain agility, with a focus on operational excellence and strategic innovation. The institute collaborates closely with industry partners to develop practical frameworks for technology-driven management, sustainability, and digitalisation in industrial ecosystems.
By combining ETH’s technical prowess with HSG’s strategic business expertise, the ETH-HSG Manufacturing Alliance provides an unparalleled platform for companies to access cutting-edge research, engage with leading scholars, and develop innovative solutions. Through the Circle of Scholars, industry partners gain access to doctoral researchers dedicated to solving real-world manufacturing challenges, ensuring a direct impact on industry transformation.
This collaboration creates a unique ecosystem where academia and industry converge to drive operational excellence, digital transformation, and sustainable innovation in Swiss manufacturing.