ZHdK research is diverse, not only considering the approximately 150 researchers based at Toni-Areal, but also and above all in light of its manifold forms and orientations. In 2022, a total of 102 research projects explored a wide variety of topics and issues. Joint projects were carried out at ZHdK’s institutes and research focuses as well as across disciplines and departments. In addition, over 80 doctoral projects were in progress at the time of reporting. Precisely this diversity makes ZHdK research so strong: It is open, far-sighted, effective and at the same time flexible and courageous in breaking new ground.
Pursuing a doctorate or a research project also requires patience, perseverance and persistence. Equally, accepting setbacks or defending one’s activities and output is part and parcel of everyday research life. This is where the Research Dossier comes in. It endeavours to understand potentials, to listen to the needs of researchers and to contribute insights and goals to structural developments. Thus, in 2022, many developments also took place at the conceptual level with the aim of shaping the conditions for future research and researchers. The gradual expansion of professional research structures is beginning to take noticeable effect: from research communication to Open Science, from the Grants Office to the PhD Centre, and from international cooperation to national lobbying.
In 2022, the most significant change at ZHdK was probably the arrival of a new president. Thomas D. Meier, who consistently and far-sightedly supported research, retired from office after many years of service. We are delighted that Karin Mairitsch, our incoming president, is as open towards and as appreciative of research as her predecessor and will provide fresh stimulus for ZHdK’s research potential.
When we think of resilience, we tend to think of the tenacity and adaptability of individuals. This view, however, is deceptive. Rather, the capacity for resilience strongly depends on the environment, in particular our professional and personal environments. Resilience, then, hinges on the ability of people and conditions to offer us security and support, above all in challenging times. The Research Dossier is seeking not only to establish such a «support structure» (Céline Condorelli, 2014) but also a peer culture, a strong sense of group responsibility, as a means of shaping research in all its dimensions.
Marijke Hoogenboom, Head of the Research Dossier, March 2023