Johann Richard

Johann Richard is the Head of the European Space Deep-tech Innovation Centre (ESDI) at the European Space Agency (ESA). In this role, he leads the development of research programs that connect breakthrough research with commercialization opportunities. Currently, Johann is collaborating with a team from the Paul Scherrer Institute to launch a program focused on quantum technologies and data management.

Before joining ESA, Johann was part of the State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation (SERI), where he worked on industrial policy, technology strategy, and business incubation within the Swiss Delegation to ESA. His academic background includes Physical Electronics, Innovation Management, and Public Governance and Administration. Johann's career spans startups, industry, public administration, and international organizations, with experience in technology, IT, consulting, policy, and strategy.