«Academic Excellence Fellowship» for emerging researchers of the University of Zurich

With its fund for the promotion of young academics (Fonds zur Förderung des Akademischen Nachwuchses, FAN), the UZH Alumni aims to support outstanding young researchers in their academic careers with private funding. It focuses on young talent from all faculties, enabling the University of Zurich to leverage its wide range of subjects for new discoveries and progress across a broad spectrum.

In 2026, the Hirschmann-Foundation supports two research projects:

Dr. Baiba Renerte

What Makes a Company Tick? Behavioral Perspectives on Integrity and Culture

Research areas: Behavioral Economics, Organizational Behavior, Organizational Ethics

Dr. Baiba Renerte looks at whether and how large global companies currently measure ethical culture. Building on her assessment, she will develop an innovative, behaviorally-grounded instrument that uses AI to make ethical corporate culture and risks visible, supporting companies in meeting growing societal and regulatory requirements.

Dr. Baiba Renerte

Dr. Viktoriya Gurash

The Risk of Fragmentation in International Climate Change Regulation

Research areas: International Climate Change Law, Human Rights Law, International Dispute Resolution

Dr. Viktoriya explores how the UN climate regime and international human rights law intersect, and how this interaction contributes to the fight against climate change. Drawing on the theory of normative pluralism and fragmentation in international law, this research offers strategies for harmonising the efforts of various bodies involved in addressing climate change, each with overlapping state obligations. 

Dr. Viktoriya Gurash