Lorenz Hurni

Born in 1963 in Biel-Bienne, Switzerland, Lorenz Hurni has transformed modern cartography through his innovative work at ETH Zurich, where he has served as Professor of Cartography since 1996 (Full Professor since 2003). After studying geodesy at ETH Zurich, he developed groundbreaking methods for digital cartographic production, including the first program for automatic generation of cartographic cliff drawings during his doctoral research. His career took a significant turn in 1994 when he joined the Federal Office of Topography (swisstopo) as project leader for computer-assisted cartography, where he revolutionized national map production by implementing digital processing systems. As managing editor-in-chief of the "Atlas of Switzerland" and developer of the "Swiss World Atlas," he has led award-winning projects commissioned by the Federal Council and the Swiss Conference of Cantonal Ministers of Education. His research focuses on cartographic data models, multimedia maps, and interactive multidimensional representations, explored through international collaborations and shared with students and practitioners. In 2016, he received the "Golden Tricycle" award for exceptional family-friendly leadership at ETH Zurich, where he currently serves as Vice Rector for Studies. A member of numerous scientific commissions and the prestigious Leopoldina - German Academy of Sciences, Hurni continues to shape the future of cartography through his work at the Institute of Cartography and Geoinformation.