1 / 2025 // LEOPOLDINA / NEWS 3
Editorial
Dear Members and Friends of the Leopoldina ,
A few days ago , the Presidency of our Academy was handed over for the 27th time – and for the first time a female researcher takes up the role . On the following pages you will find a report on this event in Halle ( Saale )/ Germany , to which we invited not only many Leopoldina Members , but also numerous Academy partners from science and academia , politics , and culture . A common theme in the various speeches that accompanied the handover of office was the challenges facing the German science and academic system in light of reactionary , anti-scientific tendencies in politics and society . This affects both the Leopoldina ’ s role as the German National Academy
Professor ( ETHZ ) Dr Gerald Haug , 27th President , and Professor Dr Bettina Rockenbach , of Sciences in providing 28th President of the Leopoldina independent , science-based advice to policymakers and society , as well as
Image : Anna Kolata | Leopoldina international representatives of German research . In the last five years , the Leopoldina has made great progress in identifying and exploring topics that merit advice at an early stage and quickly drafting statements and recommendations for action . The Newsletter provides a current example of this ( see page 11 ). This shows that science is essential for the early identification of looming crises and enables the improvement of crisis defence and prevention options . It is important to continue reinforcing this focus of our advisory work based on the interdisciplinary scientific endeavours of our members . Confidently defending and promoting the Leopoldina ’ s independence , in order to provide our science-based advice in a responsible manner , will remain a key challenge . We count on your support in this vital task !