" Application-oriented basic research as driving force behind innovation"

CDG: Why is basic research so important for innovation?
Gasser: In biotechnology, it is essential to understand the fundamental metabolic processes and their regulation within cells as comprehensively as possible, in order to derive the necessary steps and strategies for optimising the cells to produce the desired products – in our case, proteins. Application-oriented basic research is therefore the driving force behind innovation.

CDG: What are the advantages and challenges of collaborating with companies?
Gasser: The advantages include a clear path to translating scientific findings into practice and direct feedback from commercial partners: results and newly developed technologies are both scientifically exciting and practical, with real-world applications, and our team gains insight into academic and industrial career perspectives. The challenges lie in shifts of the company’s R&D focus.

CDG: What do you particularly appreciate about the CD Laboratories' funding model?
Gasser: CD Laboratories are unique in that they simultaneously promote high-quality, excellent research and collaboration with companies. A seven-year funding period and the unbureaucratic administration by the CDG enable focused, in-depth scientific work as well as the rapid transfer of research results to industry and, consequently, their swift implementation for the benefit of society.