Paul Scherrer Institute

Investment thesis

PSI exists to develop, build and operate large-scale research facilities for the national and international scientific community, while driving innovation in future technologies, energy, climate, health and fundamentals of nature through applied research and spin-off support. [1][2]

• Operates unique large-scale facilities (SwissFEL, SLS, SINQ, muon source) that serve as critical infrastructure for materials science, quantum technologies and health innovation. [1][3]
• Runs a dedicated entrepreneurship and spin-off support programme (PSI Founder Fellowship, Park Innovaare) to commercialise research outcomes. [1]
• Focuses on deep-tech and hard-science applications where facility access and proprietary experimental data create high barriers to entry. [3][4]
• Part of the ETH Domain, providing a bridge between fundamental research and industrial application within the Swiss innovation ecosystem. [2]

Credibility: PSI's strategic agenda is defined in its published strategy and guiding principles, with spin-off support explicitly detailed on its industry cooperation pages. [1][2]

Value add

• Access to unique large-scale research facilities and experimental data. [3]
• Mentorship and support through the PSI Founder Fellowship and Park Innovaare. [1]
• Credibility and network effects from association with a leading Swiss research institute. [2]
• Licensing opportunities for PSI-developed technologies. [1]

Fit verdict: Ideal for deep-tech founders requiring access to advanced experimental infrastructure or spin-off support.

Founder diligence script:

• Does my project require access to PSI's large-scale facilities?
• Am I eligible for the PSI Founder Fellowship or Park Innovaare support?
• What is the timeline for facility access or spin-off support?
• How does PSI evaluate scientific merit and project relevance?
• What are the licensing and intellectual property terms for PSI technologies?

Portfolio focus

• Spin-offs in quantum technologies, materials science and health innovation. [1]
• Research projects in particle physics, accelerator-based sciences and energy research. [3]
• Collaborations with international research institutions and industry partners. [2]
• No public portfolio of funded companies or projects is disclosed. [2]