Annual Report 2025 - Report - Page 32
Introduction to the Meeting Week
Laying the Groundwork
for New Perspectives
As part of the Opening Ceremony, the Scientific Chairs Valeria Nicolosi (Trinity College
Dublin) and Pernilla Wittung-Stafshede (Chalmers University of Technology,
Gothenburg/Rice University Houston, Texas) talked about the Meeting Programme
and their personal highlights for the upcoming week.
The 74th Lindau Nobel Laureate Meeting (Chemistry)
brought together Nobel Laureates and Young Scientists
for five intensive days of scientific exchange, dialogue,
and inspiration. Shaped over a few months by the Lindau Scientific Chairs for Chemistry Pernilla WittungStafshede and Valeria Nicolosi, the programme combined
Lectures with highly interactive formats such as Agora
Talks, Science Walks, Laureate Lunches, and Open Exchanges. “These are less formal and you can ask questions,” Wittung-Stafshede emphasized during the Opening Ceremony, highlighting the importance of dialogue
beyond the lecture hall.
A central pillar of the Meeting was the Next Gen Science Sessions, in which Young Scientists were to present
their work and discuss what the next generation was
bringing to science. Expanded in number, these sessions
fostered exchange not only among peers but also with
Nobel Laureates. In addition, the programme included
dedicated Workshops focusing on science communication, recognizing the need to convey complex knowledge
clearly and responsibly.
At the heart of the Meeting were key thematic priorities that recurred throughout the week. As Nicolosi
30 | Talking Chemistry That Matters
explained, the programme was built around three major
topics reflecting current and future challenges in science. One focus was how artificial intelligence would
influence the way research was conducted, particularly
in chemistry. Another addressed the transition from linear to circular approaches, asking how chemistry could
contribute to more sustainable systems. The third major
theme, science diplomacy, was to be explored during the
closing day on Mainau Island. “We need to talk about
academic freedom, but also about the prevailing geopolitical climate,” Wittung-Stafshede noted, underlining
the urgency of these discussions.
True to the Lindau Spirit, the Chemistry Meeting like
many previous editions was supposed to create a space
where dialogue across disciplines, generations, and cultures could flourish – laying the groundwork for new
perspectives, collaborations, and lifelong scientific connections. The Scientific Programme was thus deliberately intense, encouraging participants to make the most of every
moment. “It is no time to rest – enjoy every single minute,”
Nicolosi advised. At the same time, both Chairs stressed
the importance of openness and courage: “Be brave, talk to
each other, don’t hold back,” Wittung-Stafshede urged.
