Summer is a season for exploration. Some of us set off for distant destinations, others head into the mountains, discover new ideas from a deck chair, or simply take the time to reflect and recharge.

At ETH Zurich, exploration takes many forms. Through ETH Studios, students step beyond the lecture hall and into real-world environments where they tackle challenges that matter, collaborate across disciplines and cultures, and gain experiences that shape both their careers and perspectives.

This summer, travel with our ETH Ambassadors from the snowy peaks of Davos to the bustling streets of Bangkok, from Mars mission laboratories in California to hidden corners of Japan. Along the way, you will encounter scientific discovery, technological innovation, cultural exchange and personal growth.

Here are five inspiring stories to accompany your summer adventures.

1. Building a Protein Database at SIAF Davos

What happens when a computational biologist swaps the ETH campus for an alpine research institute?

Laura Nieba spent three months at the Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF) in Davos, building an isoform-specific database of the human proteome. Alongside her research, she attended her first international scientific conference, learned new technical skills and watched the Alps transform from winter snow to vibrant spring landscapes.

A perfect read for anyone who loves science, mountains and discovering new paths. Read the article.

2. From River Droughts to Data Clusters: Internship at SLF

Following the hidden patterns of water. Why do rivers run dry?

During her internship at the WSL Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research SLF, Lydia Seebauer explored this question using decades of hydrometeorological data. Her journey reveals how researchers use data science to better understand droughts and the growing challenges posed by climate change.

If your summer plans include lakes, rivers or mountain hikes, this story offers a fascinating perspective on the forces shaping the landscapes around us. Read the article.

3. Behind the Next Mars Helicopter

From ETH Zurich to the future of planetary exploration. Few internships begin with testing drones in Mars-like deserts.

Benjamin Dupont spent six months at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, helping develop autonomy software for a future Mars rotorcraft. His story provides a rare behind-the-scenes look at cutting-edge robotics, space exploration and the teams working to push the boundaries of what is possible.

A must-read for anyone dreaming of space, engineering and innovation. Read the article.

4. 6 Months in Bangkok to Launch AI at UNDRR

Can artificial intelligence help reduce disaster risks around the world?

At the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction in Bangkok, Bilal Bounajma became the organisation’s first data science and AI intern. Working at the intersection of technology, policy and humanitarian action, he helped lay the groundwork for future AI applications in disaster risk reduction.

This story highlights how knowledge developed at ETH can contribute to addressing global challenges. Read the article.

5. Discovering Hidden Japan

Some journeys begin with an internship and end with a completely new perspective.

Through a collaboration between ETH Zurich and the Marui Group, four students travelled across Japan, exploring how technology, sustainability and storytelling can create meaningful impact. From tea ceremonies and artisan workshops to executive presentations in Tokyo, their experience demonstrates the value of curiosity, openness and intercultural exchange.

An inspiring read for anyone planning a summer adventure abroad. Read the article.

Although these five journeys span different countries, disciplines and challenges, they share a common theme: learning happens when we step outside our comfort zones.

As you head into the summer months, we invite you to take these stories with you. They are reminders that curiosity can lead anywhere, that meaningful learning often happens far from familiar surroundings, and that the next great adventure may begin with a single opportunity.

Happy reading and enjoy your summer!