Two Silver and One Bronze Medal at the European Physics Olympiad
The 9th European Physics Olympiad took place from June 13 to 17 in Sofia, Bulgaria. Around 190 young people from 40 countries showcased their creativity by solving challenging physics problems – from optics and mechanics to magnetism. The Swiss team performed exceptionally well, winning Switzerland’s very first two silver medals at the event.
Elias Baumann (Rämibühl Gymnasium, Zurich) and Fynn Krebser (formerly at Zurich Unterland Cantonal School) each earned a silver medal – the first ever for Switzerland in this competition. Noelia Cheridito (formerly at Glarus Cantonal School) and Svenja Felber (Trogen Cantonal School) were awarded bronze medals. Luis Gördes (Engelberg Abbey School) received an honourable mention. “A Swiss team has never done this well before,” said a delighted Luis Jost, one of the volunteer organizers of the Physics Olympiad who accompanied the team to Bulgaria. He was joined by Jehan Alsawaf, who is active not only in the Physics Olympiad but also in the newly founded Swiss Astronomy Olympiad.
Understanding the World Through Physics
The participants faced two five-hour exams. In addition to theoretical tasks on optics, mechanics and magnetism, there was also a practical component. The experimental exam explored the fundamentals of neural networks, modelled as electrical circuits, and optical diffraction, used to uncover invisible structures on a thin film. Bronze medalist Svenja was particularly happy with the topics: “The first theory and second experimental tasks were both in optics, which is my strength. I really enjoyed the problems.”
The Swiss team members enjoy physics for different reasons. Fynn values its demand for creativity: “You need it to solve the problems.” He also finds it fascinating that “you can create extremely complex problems from very little theory.” For Luis, physics is helpful because it makes phenomena understandable – “like the reflection off a chair leg,” he explains.
Ending on a High Note
For Elias, Fynn, Noelia and Luis, the European Physics Olympiad (EuPhO) also marked the end of their participation in science olympiads. “We’re happy to finish on a high note,” Elias shared. The four will soon reunite in two familiar places: at ETH Zurich, where Noelia and Luis will begin studies in mechanical engineering, and Elias and Fynn will pursue degrees in physics. And again, as organizers of the upcoming Swiss Physics Olympiad 2025/26, where they will pass on their knowledge and enthusiasm to the next generation of students.
