History

Swiss Young Neurosurgeons Society

We were founded in 2005 by a handful of young residents striving to achieve a high standard of specialty training by organizing focused talks, symposiums and hands-on courses.

Following a brainstorming phase from 2006 to 2008, SYNS was established to create a community for lifelong learning and teaching. The modern demands of neurosurgical training, including long working hours, sleep deprivation, and the need to keep up with current techniques, inspired the creation of a cross-canton training platform. A small group of Swiss residents organized affordable courses to directly support their colleagues, seeking backing from peers, local departments, the national society, and the industry.

Beginnings are always challenging. In 2008, Philippe Schucht organized a three-day symposium on neurosurgical oncology for residents in the Bernese Alps, despite initial skepticism and insufficient funding. The event was a great success and has since become an annual tradition held in remote locations in Switzerland, covering various neurosurgical topics. SYNS has expanded its course offerings to include practical courses as well. As of 2011, SYNS carries the status of a registered non-profit society by Swiss law.

Our aim is to increase learning and inspiration in the field of neurosurgery while bringing together young minds from all over the country. As of 2011 SYNS carries the status of a registered non-profit society by Swiss law.

A detailed description of our society was published in the CTN-Journal in 2018. You can view the article here.