Signals, in order.

Large language models (LLMs) are increasingly used for collective reasoning on complex, value-laden problems, yet their performance on non‑verifiable, pluralistic tasks cannot be fully inferred from standard benchmarks. Using the Deliberative Reason Index (DRI), the study evaluated 1,980 five‑agent LLM runs across 12 citizen‑assembly topics and found that LLM groups produce procedural discourse comparable to humans but show limited gains in intersubjective consistency, reduced perspective diversity, and a reversal of human convergence patterns. Engineering diversity through persona prompting …

Source: OpenAlex

Zurich‑based AI startup Visorway has closed a pre‑seed round, raising funds to expand its AI‑autopilot sourcing services and grow its network of domain experts. Founded in 2026, the company encodes procurement methodology into AI, delivering IT tender documentation for private and public clients with practitioner validation. Proof‑of‑value engagements are underway with Swiss enterprises, a federal research institution, and sourcing advisory firms.

Source: Startupticker

SalesPort, a Luzern-based AI startup founded in 2024, offers a SaaS platform that automates target company research and contact identification for sales and business development teams. The company now operates in 25 countries, including recent entries into the United States and Canada, and is expanding its presence in Switzerland. SalesPort’s solution integrates a database of 475 million contacts and 32.5 million companies, differentiating itself from generic contact databases and AI tools.

Source: Startupticker

Neun Freiburger Unternehmen wurden für den IFF-Preis 2026–2027 nominiert, darunter drei Startups – Oxadi, Volatorix und YORD – die in den Bereichen Stressprävention, Drohnentechnologie und Energieeffizienz tätig sind. Die Finalisten werden am 11. November bekannt gegeben, wobei der Startup-Preis mit 30 000 CHF dotiert ist. Das Publikum kann bis zum 8. November für seinen Favoriten abstimmen.

Source: Startupticker

This chapter explores the ergonomic, cognitive, and psychological mechanisms underpinning human–robot communication, focusing on how social robots shape human perception, behaviour, and socio-emotional engagement. It examines robot design, embodiment, and communication modalities, addressing reciprocity and behavioural appropriateness, and discusses the implications of adaptive technologies such as large language models for responsiveness and confidentiality. The chapter also highlights the potential of social robots in workplace and therapeutic settings to enhance efficiency, safety, and emo…

Source: OpenAlex

The study derives an exact analytical expression for the diffusion MRI signal of diffusion confined to a cylindrical surface under finite rectangular PGSE gradients, using a spectral matrix formalism of the Laplace operator. The resulting signal, expressed as a product of non‑commuting matrix exponentials, is valid for arbitrary gradient durations and separations and was validated against Monte Carlo simulations. Accelerated implementations based on Strang splitting and Gauss‑Legendre quadrature were developed, offering large speed‑ups while maintaining controllable errors.

Source: OpenAlex

On 9 October 2026 the bilateral agreement between Switzerland and Ukraine entered into force, establishing a legal basis for Swiss companies to supply goods and services for Ukraine’s reconstruction. The agreement, part of Switzerland’s Ukraine Country Programme 2025–2028, enables private‑sector involvement, particularly in energy and infrastructure, and allows the Swiss Confederation to procure from Swiss firms through public tenders. It follows ratification by both governments and parliamentary approval in the 2026 summer session.

Source: Swiss Federal Government

The Geneva Peace Forum will be held at the Geneva International Conference Centre from 12 to 15 October 2026 under the motto ‘Choose Peace’. It brings together political, international, civil society, and academic representatives to discuss peace mediation, humanitarian demining, and Switzerland’s good offices. State Secretary Alexandre Fasel will open the forum and participate in a high‑level panel on peace mediation.

Source: Swiss Federal Government

EPFL will participate in the 2026 Olma fair in St. Gallen, presenting research and start‑up projects that address climate change, biodiversity loss, and food security. The exhibition is organized around three themes—observing natural ecosystems, applying research to modern agriculture, and building healthier food systems—and will feature companies such as Ecorobotix and Voltiris. Interactive activities aim to engage young visitors and promote STEM education.

Source: EPFL News

Tifanny Portela is pursuing a doctorate at ETH Zurich while competing with the Swiss national twirling team. She uses her athletic background to handle setbacks, manage her time, and stay focused, skills that also benefit her research. Students are encouraged to contact counselling services for support with any challenges during their studies.

Source: ETH Zurich News