Florian Dörfler awarded this year’s Rössler Prize
Achieving the ambitious net-zero targets requires more than just generating renewable energy – it also means integrating it into the power grid as smoothly and reliably as possible. This demands a complex interplay of power electronics, control systems, and AI-supported automation – Florian Dörfler’s areas of expertise.
The prizewinner successfully bridges the gap between theory and practice. Many of his solutions are already in use, helping energy providers improve electricity distribution, stabilise power flows, and develop innovative, forward-looking applications. His pioneering work has earned him several awards, including the Watt d'Or 2024 from the Swiss Federal Office of Energy. In spring 2025, Dörfler’s research group filed a patent for a control algorithm that addresses the challenge of converting direct current into alternating current by stabilising the power grid with an innovative converter.
“Florian Dörfler’s work makes a vital contribution to one of the most pressing challenges of our time,” said ETH President Joël Mesot in his laudatio. “As a professor, he also inspires students and sparks a joy for learning through innovative teaching. His tireless dedication to science and society makes him a truly deserving recipient of the 2025 Rössler Prize.”
The award for outstanding young ETH professors in the expansion phase of their careers is made possible by a gift from ETH alumnus and ETH Honorary Councillor Dr Max Rössler. It was awarded for the 17th time this year.
