University Research Centre: Health and Society
The University Research Centre (URC) Health and Society aims to network and coordinate human science research within its areas of specialisation at the University of Lucerne.
The Center brings together researchers from various disciplines, promotes innovative teaching and research programs, and builds bridges between science, health, policy, and society.
At its core are three strategic initiatives:
- LIFE (Lucerne Initiative for Functioning, Health and Well-being): Highlights individual functioning and well-being as key health indicators and develops new concepts for patient-centered health systems.
- LEARN (Lucerne Rehabilitation Research Initiative): Focuses on the study and advancement of modern rehabilitation approaches, emphasizing technological innovation, personalized therapies, and global integration into health systems.
- LINE (Lucerne Initiative for Health Equity): Strengthens research, education, and dialogue on health equity, investigates the social determinants of health, and develops solutions for more equitable healthcare.
Through these initiatives, the University of Lucerne positions itself as an internationally visible hub for interdisciplinary health research, actively contributing to fairer, more effective, and sustainable health systems.
Within its thematic area, the URC Health and Society has the following key responsibilities:
- Networking and coordinating research within the University of Lucerne
- Developing and supporting research initiatives (e.g. interdisciplinary research projects, research funding applications, academic forums, and conferences)
- Promoting collaboration with other universities and research institutions in Switzerland and abroad
- Increasing the visibility of cross-faculty research areas within and beyond the University
Ass.- Prof. Dr. Sandra Bärnreuther
Chair of the Management Board
T +41 41 229 55 72 • Room 3.A31 • sandra.baernreuther@unilu.ch
More information about Ass.- Prof. Dr. Sandra Bärnreuther
Prof. Dr. Karin Hediger
Member of the Management Board
T +41 41 229 58 22 • karin.hediger@unilu.ch
More information about Prof. Dr. Karin Hediger
Prof. Dr. Marc Hürzeler
Member of the Management Board
T +41 41 229 54 05 • Room 4.A33 • marc.huerzeler@unilu.ch
More information about Prof. Dr. Marc Hürzeler
Prof. Dr. theol. lic. phil. Peter G. Kirchschläger
Member of the Management Board
T +41 41 229 52 61 • Room 3.B53 • peter.kirchschlaeger@unilu.ch
More information about Prof. Dr. theol. lic. phil. Peter G. Kirchschläger



