The annual Ig Nobel awards ceremony will move from the United States to Europe for the first time in its 36-year history, organizers announced Monday. The 36th annual ceremony will be held in Zurich, Switzerland, marking a significant departure from the event's traditional US venues.

The Ig Nobels, organized by the Annals of Improbable Research, honor scientific achievements that "make people laugh and then think." The satirical awards typically take place in September, a few weeks before the actual Nobel Prizes are announced.

Organizers cited concerns about attendees obtaining US travel visas as a primary factor in the relocation decision. Marc Abraham, associated with the event, stated that "during the past year, it has become unsafe for our guests to visit the country," indicating broader security concerns beyond visa processing issues.

The ceremony celebrates unusual scientific research and discoveries, often highlighting studies that appear quirky or absurd but may contain genuine scientific insights. The awards have traditionally been held at venues like Harvard University's Sanders Theatre.

The move to Zurich represents the first time the ceremony will take place outside the United States since its inception. The decision reflects growing challenges international visitors face when traveling to the US, affecting academic and scientific gatherings nationwide.

The Annals of Improbable Research, a digital magazine that showcases unconventional scientific studies, continues to organize the event despite the venue change.