People - 20.03.2026 - 11:55
Longevity is the science of healthy longevity. In English, this is also referred to as the “extension of healthspan” – so it is not simply about living longer, but about extending the number of healthy years. Research shows that it is now possible to slow down cellular ageing. In some areas, rejuvenation is even being achieved, emphasises Tobias Reichmuth in conversation with HSG Alumni. This could prevent age-related diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, cardiovascular diseases or type 2 diabetes. “For me, the topic of longevity is linked to entrepreneurship: I am convinced that research in this field will not only improve our lives but also open up new markets,” says Reichmuth, adding, “Maintaining good health is key. Enabling a healthy life through personalised prevention and preventing diseases from arising in the first place would significantly relieve the burden on the healthcare system in the long term.”
Through Maximon, Tobias Reichmuth has established several companies in the longevity sector:
At START Summit, the investor also likes to look back on his days as a student in St.Gallen: “HSG was more international than any other Swiss university – I really liked that! In the early 2000s, there weren’t as many different formats for entrepreneurship at the University of St.Gallen as there are today – my advice: make the most of the many opportunities, get involved in an initiative and take on responsibility early on. At HSG, you’ll find support, inspiration and a strong network.”
Reichmuth is also a frequent guest on campus, sharing his practical experience with students. “I always enjoy speaking at HSG – it’s not only fun, but also a great opportunity to recruit talented people,” says Reichmuth.
The Dr Werner Jackstädt Foundation award, worth CHF 10,000, was presented on Friday, 20 March 2026, at START Summit at the Olma exhibition centre in St.Gallen. In previous years, the prize was awarded to the following individuals and companies:
2025: Léa Miggiano of Carvolution
2024: Pascal Bieri of Planted
2023: Melanie Gabriel of Yokoy
2022: Raffael Wohlgesinger of Formo
2021: Dorina Bührle of Piavita
2020: Julian Teicke of Wefox
2019: Kilian Wagner, founder of VIU
2018: Valentin Stalf, founder of the smartphone bank N26
2017: Lea von Bidder, inventor of the fertility tracker Ava
2016: Caspar Coppetti, inventor of the on running shoes
2015: Laura Behrens Wu, founder of the shipping software company Shippo
2014: Alexander Graubner-Müller, founder of the micro-loan platform Kreditech
2013: Soma Analytics founder Johann Huber with his anti-stress app
2012: DeinDeal.ch founder Adrian Locher
2011: Dr Alexander Ilic, founder of the company Dacuda
