The best ETH invention: presenting the Spark Award finalists for 2024
The prize for the best invention at ETH Zurich 2024 will be awarded on 21 November. An overview, complete with videos, of the five technologies that made it to the final.
A robotic platform for more accurate cancer diagnosis, a simple method for separating rare earth metals, a warning sensor for leaks in tissue after surgery, a noise-absorbing composite material, or bacteria as cellulose-producing mini-factories: one of these five technologies will receive the Spark Award 2024.
How the best invention is chosen
Every year, patent applications are filed for some 100 inventions that emerge from ETH Zurich. Almost two-thirds of these patents are filed by private companies on account of research contracts or are managed by collaborating institutions. Of the remaining patent applications, the most promising invention has been honoured with the Spark Award on an annual basis since 2012.
The technology and licensing managers from the ETH transfer office nominate five of these patent applications. A jury of external experts then chooses the best invention, which ultimately receives the Spark Award.
Presentation at ETH Industry Day
This year, the Spark Award will be presented at the ETH Industry Day. This event gives all stakeholders from industry, government and non-profit organisations an opportunity to make or strengthen contacts among researchers from the university and ETH spin-offs.
The ETH Industry Day will be held at Zurich Convention Center on Thursday, 21 November, as part of Open-i. During the morning session, the scientists will take to the stage to present their latest research results and projects as well as examples of successful collaborations. The talks will conclude with the presentation of the Spark Award 2024 to the group of researchers who came up with the most promising invention.
Throughout the day, ETH researchers and entrepreneurs – including researchers from the projects that made it to the Spark Award final – will be present at around 50 stands in the Science Zone to engage in more detailed conversations with visitors.
ETH tickets at half price
Those wishing to attend the ETH Industry Day and the presentation of the Spark Award on 21 November can obtain a ticket for the two-day Open-i event at half price via this external page ETH registration link.
Further information and the detailed programme can be found on the Industry Day website.
Video portraits of the five finalists
3D visualisation technology for biopsies
Recycling rare earth metals
Early detection of surgical leaks
Stiff materials that stop noise and vibrations
Boosting bacterial cellulose production
