Research
Research Activities
The research activities of VAW are spanning a wide field from the supply of electricity over natural hazard protection and environmental topics to the availability of water resources in a changing climate. In particular, we are active in the research domains of air-water flows, sustainable hydropower, hydraulic structures, numerical modelling, solids transport and morphodynamics, eco- and ethohydraulics, cryo- and hydraulic hazards, glacier hydrology, glacier mechanics and glacier seismology. We are involved in fundamental research, as well as in applied research in terms of model studies, consulting and monitoring.
Fundamental Research
The investigation of physical processes using laboratory scale experiments and field measurements has been VAW’s core expertise for many decades. Scale models allow to study specific processes under controlled conditions using high-end measurement techniques. Field studies applying state-of-the-art methods enable the assessment of nature-scale processes. The results are analysed and interpreted using both theoretical and numerical models.
Applied research (Consulting)
The application of findings from fundamental research to applied studies is our primary way to transfer knowledge. Challenging issues related to the design of hydraulic infrastructure, river restoration or risk mitigation, water availability and glacier-related hazards are investigated using lab-scale, theoretical or numerical models. Such studies are often conducted on behalf and to the benefit of local, cantonal or federal authorities, power companies, and tourist operators.
