Adrian Zwyssig

Adrian Zwyssig is a postdoctoral researcher in the learning and instruction group of Prof. Dr. Martina Rau at ETH Zurich since February 2025. His research focuses on cognitively activating learning methods, instructional design, and the role of mental models and misconceptions in chemistry education.

Adrian studied chemistry at ETH Zurich, earning his Master of Science in 2016. From 2018 to 2023, he pursued his doctorate in chemical education at ETH Zurich under the supervision of Prof. Dr. Elsbeth Stern and Prof. Dr. Antonio Togni. His doctoral research investigated students’ conceptual understanding of chemical bonding, particularly at high school and the transition to university. Using empirical methods, he explored how instructional approaches can enhance conceptual learning and address misconceptions.

In collaboration with the MINT Learning Center at ETH Zurich, he developed a teaching unit that compares and contrasts different types of chemical bonds, significantly improving high school students’ conceptual understanding compared to regular instruction.
In 2020, he designed a preparatory chemistry course for newly enrolled ETH students to strengthen their understanding of chemical bonding before the start of their studies. Since then, he has taught the course with over 600 participants each year.

Besides research, Adrian teaches high school chemistry and is passionate about advancing science education through interdisciplinary insights from the learning sciences and chemistry education.