Assessing the implications of new scientific findings

The engineering sciences are a relatively new subject area within the Leopoldina. An international working group is currently preparing a statement about the potential advantages of quantum technologies on behalf of the Leopoldina, acatech and the Union of the German Academies of Sciences and Humanities.

Identifying research needs

In its statements, the Leopoldina defines areas for further research and identifies gaps in current knowledge. A good example is the field of energy research. In this area in particular, it has become clear that new technological solutions can only be effective if they go hand in hand with social innovation, and thus that closer collaboration with social and behavioural research is also required.

Encouraging debate among policymakers and the public

The Leopoldina provides information about new scientific findings, research needs and possible courses of action for policy and society, in appropriate formats. As a member of the „Innovationsdialog zwischen Bundesregierung, Wirtschaft und Wissenschaft” (Innovation Dialogue between the German government, industry and science), National Academy President Jörg Hacker advises the German Chancellor Angela Merkel on issues relating to technology policy.