Daylight: a fundamental force in nature and a timeless fascination for humanity

DLA Annual Conference 2026
Parallel Session C

Thursday, 28 May 2026
from 15:30 – 17:00

Lead
Prof. Christoph Kueffer, OST Eastern Switzerland University of Applied Sciences, Switzerland & Department of Environmental Systems Science, ETH Zurich, Switzerland
Prof. Helga Schmid, University of Applied Science Potsdam, Germany

Description
Daylight links planet Earth to the sun and the universe. It drives diverse physical and chemical processes, and is the main source of energy and a crucial means of information of most life on Earth from bacteria to humans. It thus shapes fundamental processes in human biology, in species across the plant and animal kingdoms, and in ecology.

In this session we build on the knowledge shared among DLA members to dive into the fascinating science of daylight at the most fundamental levels. We ask ourselves how the Daylight Academy through its projects can contribute to further understand and communicate about daylight as an inspiration for scientific curiosity.

Objectives

• Shape the future: Bring your expertise on new ideas related to the conference theme – what nature knows about daylight and what we can learn from it across different fields and disciplines
• Co-create initiatives: Work in interdisciplinary teams to turn ideas into concrete initiatives
• Build momentum: Develop motivating kick-off plans to pursue beyond the conference towards DLA proposals or other impactful initiatives. DLA projects can apply for funding of up to CHF 25,000.