Technology that Transforms, Research that Inspires

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At the Zug Institute for Blockchain Research (ZIBR), we explore blockchain as a force reshaping politics, law, culture, and everyday life.
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A New Approach to Blockchain Research

The Zug Institute for Blockchain Research (ZIBR) is a joint initiative of the University of Lucerne and the Canton of Zug dedicated to examining blockchain through the lens of the humanities, focusing on the legal, political, economic and social implications of the technology. Our mission is to understand how blockchain challenges existing institutions and to foster meaningful dialogue about its role in shaping the future of society.
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Make cutting-edge blockchain research accessible to the public
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Translate technological innovation into societal understanding
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Reinforce Switzerland as a critical hub for blockchain research
“We believe that blockchain technology has the potential to change many areas of our lives and we want to ensure that we are at the forefront of this development.”
Heinz Tännler
Member of the Cantonal Government of Zug and Finance Director, President of the ZIBR Sponsoring Association
Born from a shared vision of academic rigor and societal relevance, ZIBR explores the human impact of blockchain technology: from philosophical foundations to legal and political consequences. Our mission is to make blockchain research accessible and engaging.
1’700+
Blockchain companies call the Swiss Crypto Valley their home
5
Academic chairs across key disciplines within ZIBR, with more to come

How ZIBR Works

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Interdisciplinary Research
Our research approach bridges various disciplines within the humanities to examine blockchain’s political, economic, legal, and societal dimensions. By connecting diverse fields of expertise, we generate insights into the broader implications of technological innovation.
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Public Engagement
Our public engagement fosters a deeper understanding of how blockchain influences democratic institutions, governance, and everyday social life. Through dialogue and knowledge exchange, we connect technological innovation with its broader consequences for society.
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Academic & Industry Collaboration
Our collaborations bridge scholarship and practice, bringing together researchers, policymakers, and industry leaders to examine blockchain’s evolving role in society. This exchange of expertise ensures that our work remains both intellectually rigorous and socially relevant.
ZIBR’s research is designed to serve both the academic community and the wider public. Through public events, industry collaborations, and interdisciplinary publications, we foster an open dialogue on how blockchain shapes society.

Meet the Team

Prof. Dr. Alexander Trechsel

Professor of Political Science and Political Communication

Prof. Dr. Bernhard Rütsche

Professor of Public Law and Philosophy of Law

Pascal Neupert

Managing Director, Operations

Tracy Trachsler

Managing Director, Strategy

Martina Kunz-Vesti

Administrative Assistant

Prof. Dr. Max Baumgart

Associate Professor of Energy Law and Blockchain

Prof. Dr. Patrik Hummel

Professor of Philosophy and Blockchain

Ass.-Prof. Dr. Claude Humbel

Assistant Professor for Private Law and Blockchain

Ass.-Prof. Dr. Markus Schreiber

Assistant Professor of Public Law and Blockchai

Prof. Dr. Adam Hayes

Professor of Sociology and Blockchain

Dr. Jonathan Bright

Teaching and Research Associate at ZIBR

From Research to Impact

ZIBR bridges cutting-edge academic research with real-world application. By collaborating across disciplines and engaging with policymakers, industry stakeholders and citizens, we translate knowledge into meaningful impact for society.
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Public lectures and events
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Active role in shaping international discourse
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Academic publications and thought leadership
A joint endeavor of the University of Lucerne and the Canton of Zug
Email
info@zibr.ch
Address
Dammstrasse 16, 6300 Zug
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The Zug Institute for Blockchain Research (ZIBR) strives to provide accurate and up-to-date information on this website. However, all content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. ZIBR assumes no liability for the correctness, completeness, or currentness of the content provided. External links are provided for convenience and do not imply endorsement of third-party content.