This year, the annual DIAC members’ meeting took place at Arxada in Visp, providing a dynamic setting for exchange between industry and academia in the field of industrial and applied chemistry. Around 40 participants gathered for a full day of insightful presentations, networking opportunities, and a behind-the-scenes look at one of Switzerland’s key specialty chemicals sites.
The meeting began with a welcome coffee, followed by an address from Dr. Olivier Lambrechts, President of Nutrition, Care & Environmental at Arxada, who set the stage for the day. Dr. Ulrich Mayerhöffer, Head of Technical Evaluation and Development, provided a comprehensive overview of “Arxada’s Chemical Network in Visp,” highlighting the site’s significance and innovative capabilities. Dr. Tanja Schaffer, Global Head BL CDMO at Arxada, then presented on “CDMO @ Arxada – towards customized net-zero solutions,” focusing on how Arxada is driving sustainability and tailored solutions in contract development and manufacturing. A key highlight was the DIAC Fellowship Award Ceremony, where Dr. Philippe Dupau (dsm-firmenich Ltd.) was honored for his outstanding contributions to the discovery, development, and industrial implementation of many innovative and robust catalytic methodologies for the sustainable and cost-efficient synthesis of iconic perfumery ingredients. Dr. Dupau delivered a short talk, offering insights into his research and the importance of innovation in the sector. We look forward to his DIAC Fellow lectures at Syngenta in Münchwilen (September 23, 2025), University of Bern (October 8, 2025) and the University of Geneva.
During the official member assembly, the DIAC board saw a transition: Urs Brändli (Dottikon Exclusive Synthesis AG) and Andrea Sting (Sygenta Crop Protection AG) were warmly thanked and bid farewell with deep appreciation for their many years of invaluable contributions to the society’s success. Adrian Friedmann (Sygenta Crop Protection AG) and Andreas Müller (Dottikon Exclusive Synthesis AG) were newly elected to the board, bringing fresh ideas and perspectives for the coming years.
After a lunch generously provided by Arxada, participants were given an exclusive plant and lab tour, offering a close-up view of Arxada Visp’s broad and advanced production and development capabilities. The 2025 DIAC member meeting at Arxada Visp once again demonstrated the value of exchange and strong connections among chemists within our society.
Niklaus Künzle, Lonza / Céline Wittwer, SCS
21.05.2025