Circle 2024

1. Boosting Frontier Research: Europe's Next Move 
8 November | 9-9:50 am

This Plenary Table will explore how cutting-edge frontier research drives scientific and technological breakthroughs that benefit the global economy and society. With rising global competition, the focus will be on how Europe can enhance its support for such research. Leaders from government and science will discuss strategies to bolster frontier research both nationally and internationally, addressing future challenges and opportunities.

This event is supported by European Research Council.

With following speakers:

• Alain Aspect, Institut d’Optique - Université Paris-Saclay
• Andrzej Szeptycki, Ministry of Science and Higher Education of Poland
• Jana Havlíková, Ministry of Science, Research and Innovation of the Czech Republic
• Marie-Noëlle Semeria, Total Energies
• Partick Hetzel, French Ministry for Higher Education and Research
• Moderator: Maria Leptin, European Research Council

2. Feeding the World in 2050
8 November | 10-10:50 am

Ensuring global food security amidst climate change is a critical challenge. This session will explore the complex relationship between agriculture and new technologies, focusing on how innovations can create sustainable and resilient systems. Experts from various fields will discuss strategies to transform agriculture and set the agenda for securing food supply worldwide by 2050 and beyond.

This event is supported by Bayer.

With following speakers:

• Akua Antwi-Agyakwa, Cocoa Research Institute of Ghana
• Christophe F. Maire, Atlantic Labs & Food Labs, Germany
• Jack A. Bobo, University of Nottingham Food Systems Institute
• Karin Guendel Gonzalez, Bayer CropScience Deutschland
• Patricia Gruber, U.S. Department of State
• Moderator: Magdalena Skipper, Springer Nature

3. Fusion Technology: Energy for a Sustainable Future

8 November | 11-11:50 am

Nuclear fusion could transform energy production, ensuring security and driving economic growth while supporting sustainability for future generations. Recent years have seen remarkable progress in fusion technology, with both private and public R&D projects reporting significant advances. This panel will bring together leading experts from science, management, and politics to discuss the current state of fusion technology and outline future roadmaps.

This event is supported by Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF).

With following speakers:

• Constantin Häfner, Fraunhofer Institute for Lasertechnology ILT
• Kimberly Budil, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory
• Pietro Barabaschi, ITER Organization
• Moderator: Norbert Holtkamp, Hoover Institution, Stanford University

4. Preparing the Next Generation of Civic Science Leaders 
8 November | 12-12:50 pm

As science advances and breaks down walls, ensuring that innovations effectively address complex societal challenges is crucial. This session will explore frameworks for preparing the next generation of civic science leaders who bridge disciplines. Pioneers in education and emerging leaders will discuss co-creating new leadership approaches, aiming for a future where everyone can shape and benefit from science.

This event is supported by Rita Allen Foundation, Burroughs Wellcome Fund.

With following speakers:

• Avriel C. Epps, Cornell University
• Dietram Scheufele, University of Wisconsin-Madison
• Frances Colón, Center for American Progress
• Naledi Saul, University of California San Francisco
• Narayan Sankaran, University of San Francisco
• Moderator: Mariette DiChristina-Gerosa, Boston University College of Communication

5. Driving Innovation: Renewables and Sustainable Chemistry 
8 November | 2-2:50 pm

The chemical sector faces immense pressure to drastically reduce CO2 emissions and source vast amounts of renewable energy and feedstocks, all while meeting growing demand. This necessary, yet challenging transformation, presents new opportunities for innovation. Emerging technologies show promise in boosting energy and material efficiency but require significant RD&D efforts. This panel will explore critical aspects and opportunities in sustainable chemical value chains.

This event is supported by Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin.

With following speakers:

• Bernd Rech, Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin
• Carla Seidel, BASF SE
• Juha Pankakoski, Siemens Energy
• Magdalena Atria Barros, Chilean Embassy, Berlin
• Moderator: Jennifer Porto, NYU Berlin

6. Winning the Deep Tech Century: Europe’s Path to Innovation 
8 November | 3-3:50 pm

The EU must boost groundbreaking innovation to stay a global economic leader and enhance competitiveness in technology and sustainability. This will drive new industries, create jobs, and tackle challenges like climate change and digital transformation. After the 2024 EU elections, Europe has a unique chance to reshape its approach to deep tech. This panel will explore strategies for key players, from corporates to policymakers, to lead in the deep tech century.

This event is supported by Boston Consulting Group, Federal Agency for Disruptive Innovation - SPRIND.

With following speakers:

• Michael Brigl, Boston Consulting Group (BCG)
• Michiel Scheffer, President of the European Innovation Council Board
• Monika Lessl, Bayer Foundation
• Rafael Laguna de la Vera, SPRIND
• Robbert Dijkgraaf, University of Amsterdam
• Moderator: Thierry Coulhon, Institut Polytechnique de Paris

7. Expanding Global Access to Innovative Medical Therapies

8 November | 4-4:50 pm

Investments in pharma and biotech have advanced innovative therapies like gene and cell-based treatments, offering new hope for severe diseases. However, access remains limited, especially in low- and middle-income countries, due to eligibility, geographical barriers, and high costs. This session’s panel of experts will discuss the urgent need for collaborative efforts to ensure fair and sustainable global access to these transformative therapies.

This event is supported by Berlin Institute of Health at Charité (BIH).

With following speakers:

• Alain Huriez, AdBio Partners
• Christof von Kalle, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health (BIH)
• Jennifer Eileen Adair, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center
• Jimi Olaghere, ICER
• Moderator: Beate Kampmann, Charité Center for Global Health

8. HPC and AI Solutions: A Collective International Effort

8 November | 5-5:50 pm

In 2025, Europe will launch its first high-performance computer (HPC) capable of over one quintillion calculations per second. This enormous computing power will advance scientific simulations and AI, driving breakthroughs in climate, energy, and health research. This Plenary Table brings together HPC manufacturers, AI experts, and researchers to explore how the synergy of HPC and AI can tackle today's critical societal challenges.

This event is supported by Forschungszentrum Jülich. 

With following speakers:

• John Josephakis, NVIDIA
• Kohei Itoh, Keio University
• Paul Kearns, Argonne National Laboratory
• Richard Socher, YOU.com
• Moderator: David Patrician, RTL Nord

1. CEO-Table @ Falling Walls Science Summit: From Research Innovation to Corporate Strategy
8 November | 9-9:50 am

Discussion of four CEOs: How can innovations from research be translated into corporate strategies? How can the champion of basic research, Germany, move from the laboratory to the market more successfully? Do legacy companies and start-ups differ in their approaches?

This event is supported by Table.Briefings.

With following speakers:

• Bernd Scheifele, Heidelberg Materials
• Gesa Miczaika, Auxxo Catalyst Fund
• Michael Brigl, Boston Consulting Group (BCG)
• Michael Bröcker, Table.Briefings
• Peter Sölkner, Vetter Pharma

2. Science Diplomacy: Opportunities and Limits
8 November | 10-10:50 am

The Round Table will explore how international scientific collaborations can be sustained during crises, the role of such partnerships in crisis and post-crisis periods, and the limits of science diplomacy. The discussion will address how scientists and institutions can navigate these challenges and find paths for continued cooperation.

This event is supported by Alfried Krupp von Bohlen und Halbach Foundation.

With following speakers:

• Angela Liberatore, European Research Council Executive Agency
• David Harel, Israel Academy of Sciences and Humanities, Weizmann Institute of Science
• Robert Schlögl, Alexander von Humboldt Foundation
• Shelly Kupferberg,  Deutschlandfunk Kultur und RBB Radiodrei

3. Navigating Dual-Use: Balancing Freedom and Security
8 November | 11-11:50 am

This panel explores the evolving relationship between public and military research amid geopolitical tension. As challenges like cybersecurity, climate change, and AI blur boundaries, the panel will debate whether strict separation benefits society. The participants will discuss the ethical, technological, and strategic impacts of collaboration.

This event is supported by Hertie Foundation.

With following speakers:

• Alice Aiken, Dalhousie University
• Alex van Someren, National Security, UK 
• Carsten Breuer, Bundeswehr
• Ursula M. Staudinger, Technische Universität Dresden
• Georg Schütte (Moderator), Volkswagen Stiftung

4. 4th Gen Universities: Shaping Future Innovation and Impact
8 November | 1-1:50 pm

4th generation universities are redefining the role of higher education in an increasingly complex world. Moving beyond education and research, they focus on entrepreneurship, innovation ecosystems, and deep engagement with industry and society. This discussion will explore how these institutions drive economic growth, address global challenges, and transform the traditional university model to stay relevant in the 21st century.

This event is supported by Elsevier, Eindhoven University of Technology.

With following speakers:

• Alexandr Hobza, European Commission
• Marianna Prokopi-Demetriades, RSL Revolutionary Labs Ltd, Theramir Ltd, Promed Bioscience Ltd
• Nick Fowler, Elsevier
• Peter Schlosser, Arizona State University
• Robert-Jan Smits, Eindhoven University of Technology

5. Democracy under Attack
8 November | 2-2:50 pm

This panel explores the theme of democracy under attack, focusing on the integrity of elections, the need for institutional innovation, and the resilience of societies. It will examine the erosion of the international rules-based order and the global rise of democratic backsliding. Experts and policy stakeholders will discuss strategies to safeguard democratic values, strengthen institutions, and restore faith in democratic governance amidst growing authoritarian pressures.

This event is supported by Berlin University Alliance, University of Oxford, Exzellenzcluster "Contestations of the Liberal Script (SCRIPTS)".

With following speakers:

• Alexander Betts, University of Oxford
• Anna Lührmann, Federal Foreign Office
• Carsten Holtkamp, Kreab Germany
• Lora Viola, Freie Universität Berlin/ SCRIPTS
• Petra Schleiter, University of Oxford

6. KIWi Policy Talk: Transatlantic Science Relations & the US Election
8 November | 3-3:50 pm

Transatlantic scientific relations are crucial, with US universities leading in research and innovation. The Inflation Reduction Act and Chips and Science Act have opened new avenues for collaboration in technologies like AI and renewable energy. The upcoming US presidential election will impact academic exchange and transatlantic partnerships. The KIWi Policy Talk will explore the election's effects on academic cooperation, opportunities, and challenges amid geopolitical shifts.

This event is supported by German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), DAAD KIWi. 

With following speakers:

• Anette "Nina" Gray, New York University
• Joybrato Mukherjee, German Academic Exchange Service
• Ralf Beste, German Federal Foreign Office
• Young-Kee Kim, The University of Chicago
• Sandra Pfister (Moderator), Deutschlandfunk

7. Future of Open Science: Enhancing Research Access and Impact
8 November | 4-4:50 pm

Open Science is crucial for addressing the world's major challenges. It enhances the accessibility and impact of research, while its transparency boosts both research efficiency and trust in results. However, realising this vision requires overcoming several obstacles. This Round Table will assess the current state of Open Science, identify key drivers and barriers, and offer actionable recommendations, including the role of technology and AI in this transformation.

This event is supported by Springer Nature. 

With following speakers:

• Alina Schadwinkel, DER SPIEGEL
• Gerard Meijer, Fritz Haber Institute of the Max Planck Society
• Joseph S. Broz, IBM
• Julieta Arancio, Open Research Community Accelerator (ORCA)
• Magdalena Skipper, Springer Nature

8. Navigating AI: Science, Politics, and Societal Challenges
8 November | 5-5:50 pm

Scientific knowledge is crucial for addressing complex issues like climate change, public health, and social inequality. The pandemic highlighted the intricate relationship between science and politics, and current developments in AI pose new challenges. This panel will explore how science and politics can effectively collaborate under uncertainty to address social challenges, ensure evidence-based decisions, and navigate the balance between scientism and democratic legitimacy.

This event is supported by Volkswagen Foundation. 

With following speakers:

• Iryna Gurevych, Technical University of Darmstadt
• Martin Hullin, Bertelsmann Stiftung
• Michael Schönstein, German Federal Chancellery
• Sarah de Rijcke, Leiden University
• Georg Schütte (Moderator), Volkswagen Stiftung

9. How Artificial Intelligence Drives the Biomedical Revolution
8 November | 7:30-8:20pm

Artificial Intelligence is poised to revolutionize the biomedical field by enhancing diagnostics, treatment personalization, and overall healthcare delivery. In connection to that, our panellists discuss questions around collaborative possibilities on both European and global level: What do they need in order to work effectively? What skills should future scientists develop to effectively leverage AI in their work? What are the ethical and regulatory considerations of AI and biomedicine?

This event is supported by Boehringer Ingelheim Foundation, Austrian Academy of Sciences. 

With following speakers:

• Heather Harrington, Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics
• Heinz Fassmann, Austrian Academy of Sciences
• Jan Ellenberg, SciLifeLab
• Magdalena Skipper, Springer Nature
• Michael Bronstein, Aithyra Institute, University of Oxford
• Patrick Cramer, Max Planck Society
• Richard Socher, you.com

10. Natural Hazards and Climate Change
9 November | 9:30-10:20 am

Large populations live in areas prone to natural hazards like volcanism, earthquakes, floods, and landslides, often worsened by climate change. Rising sea levels, shifting rainfall, and melting ice elevate risks for, e.g., tsunamis, volcanic eruptions, and even the frequency of earthquakes. As vulnerable regions grow, more people face danger. This round table will explore research on monitoring, early warning, modeling, and public engagement to help society better prepare for these threats. 

This event is supported by GFZ German Research Centre for Geosciences, Hannover Re Foundation.

With following speakers:

• Andreas Märkert, Hannover Re Group
• Marco Bohnhoff, German Research Centre for Geosciences
• Mariette DiChristina-Gerosa, Boston University College of Communication
• Susanne Buiter, Helmholtz Centre Potsdam - GFZ German Research Centre for Geosciences
• Thomas Heilmann, Deutscher Bundestag

11. Reliable Generative AI: A Key to Industrial Competitiveness
9 November | 10-10:50 am

Generative AI holds transformative potential for industries, enabling new avenues for innovation and value creation. Yet, its reliability is critical for maintaining industrial competitiveness. This round table brings together experts to explore the challenges and opportunities in developing dependable AI systems, focusing on the implications for sustainable economic growth, transparency and ethics.

This event is supported by Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft. 

With following speakers:

• Hans-Jörg Vögel, BMW Group
• Ludwig Siegele, The Economist
• Mehdi Ali, Fraunhofer Institute for Intelligent Analysis and Information Systems IAIS
• Michael Bartsch, ai.dopt

12. Overcoming Animal Testing with Advanced Cell Models
9 November | 11-11:50 am

Organoids and microtissues hold significant promise for reducing or even replacing animal testing in a range of sectors, including human health and life sciences. These cell systems better mimic human biology, providing more accurate predictions of drug responses, toxicity, and disease mechanisms. Nevertheless, there are still substantial challenges to address. This panel will discuss these challenges, including the workflows, tools and regulatory guidance needed to realise the full potential.

This event is supported by Sartorius. 

With following speakers:

• Alison Abbott, Freelance
• Martha Mayo, Sartorius 
• Seyoum Ayehunie, MatTek Corporation
• Uwe Marx, TissUse
• Zaher Nahle, The Ivyctory Group

13. Eyes to the sky: The Next Generation of Large Telescopes
9 November | 1-1:50 pm

Advancements in telescope technology are transforming our understanding of the universe and contributing to global scientific progress. Recent innovations in large-scale optical, radio, and space-based telescopes are not only pushing the frontiers of astronomical research but also addressing pressing global challenges. This session will explore how these cutting-edge tools are driving the advancement of knowledge and benefiting the broader good of society. 

This event is supported by Heraeus. 

With following speakers:

• David Reitze, Laser Interferometer Gravitational-wave Observatory (LIGO), Califonia Institute of Technology 
• Frank Stietz, Heraeus Group
• Linda Tacconi, Max Planck Institute for Extraterrestrial Physics
• Michael Kramer, Max Planck Institute for Radio Astronomy
• Sibylle Anderl, Zeit Online

14. AI Governance: How to Benefit Everyone?
9 November | 2-2:50 pm

The rise of Generative AI has a wide range of implications for society, business, and politics. Rules are needed to maintain fundamental rights and the ethical development of AI applications without compromising innovation. How can we balance regulating risk and bolstering research and development? Does current regulation such as the EU’s AI Act meets that expectation? What role can universities play in developing frameworks and building bridges between engineering, society and politics?

This event is supported by Technical University of Munich (TUM). 

With following speakers:

• Amelie Hennemann-Heldt, German Federal Chancellery
• Helmut Krcmar, Technical University of Munich (TUM)
• Isa Sonnenfeld, Tech leader, advisor, ex-Google News Lab Head, EMEA
• Ludwig Siegele, The Economist
• Urs Gasser, Technical University of Munich (TUM)

15. Restoring Trust: Building Democratic Resilience
9 November | 3-3:50 pm

Democracy cannot thrive without public trust. As confidence in institutions hits historic lows, this roundtable will explore ways to rebuild trust in democratic systems, focusing on Western Europe. Experts will discuss how transparency, citizen empowerment, and science-based decisions can restore accountability and legitimacy, strengthening democracy from the ground up against growing challenges.

This event is supported by Stiftung Mercator.  

With following speakers:

• Christof Gattringer, Austrian Science Fund
• Gosia Binczyk, European Comission
• Günter Nooke
• Manon Westphal, University of Münster
• Swantje Freifrau von Massenbach, KiVVON Media

16. Biomedical Innovation Ecosystems: Recipes for Success
9 November | 4-4:50 pm

An innovation ecosystem in biomedicine requires collaboration between research institutions, industry, funders, and healthcare providers. Key factors include funding mechanisms, access to advanced technologies, strong regulatory support, and a culture of knowledge sharing and entrepreneurship. This Round Table will examine the essential components of such an ecosystem, explore key drivers and challenges, and offer actionable recommendations for building and sustaining it.

This event is supported by Max Delbrück Center.  

With following speakers:

• Claudia Ulbrich, Cardior Pharmaceuticals
• Henry Marx, Senate Department for Higher Education and Research, Health and Long-Term Care
• Ian Walmsley, Imperial College London
• Juan de Pablo, New York University
• Maike Sander, Max Delbrück Center

1. The Future of Digital Financial Systems
7 November | 3-4 pm

The emergence of digital technologies has transformed the banking and finance sector and created new opportunities for financial businesses to improve their competitive advantage. This discussion will focus on how digital transformation improves customer experience, financial competitiveness and market performance.

This event is supported by the Turkish Embassy.

2. Digital Walls and How to Overcome Them
8 November | 9:30-10:30 am

The free flow of information is vital not only for democracy, but also for innovation. Both are threatened when authoritarian regimes initiate censorship, internet shutdowns and disinformation campaigns with the aim of controlling and manipulating internet freedom. This panel, hosted by Deutsche Welle, Germany’s international broadcaster, will address challenges, explore solutions and offer recommendations for political, technological and civil society efforts to preserve the global free flow of information.

This event is supported by the DW (Deutsche Welle).

3. Impact of 2024 US Elections on Global Politics and Society
8 November | 10-10:50 am

This panel will assess the impact of the 2024 US elections on global politics and societies. With shifting geopolitical landscapes and societal changes, these elections have significant global implications. Experts will examine shifts in foreign policy, power dynamics, and social cohesion. This session is the first in a two-part series on the 2024 super election year, setting the stage for a deeper look at European electoral impacts.

This event is supported by the Volkswagen Foundation.

4. Germany's Eastern Vote: Impact on Politics and Global Role
8 November | 11-11:50 am

This panel will explore how Eastern Germany's electoral outcomes shape the nation's political discourse and socio-economic policies, affecting the 2025 national elections. Experts will analyse the socio-cultural factors behind these preferences and discuss impacts on Germany's political future, European integration, and global challenges. This session continues the two-part series on the 2024 super election year, with a focus on Europe.

This event is supported by the Volkswagen Foundation.

5. Academic Freedom: Practical Approaches
8 November | 3-3:50 pm

In an increasingly polarised world, academic freedom is under threat. This session will highlight strategies to protect and promote the freedom to think, question and share ideas. Featuring initiatives from leading organisations, it will offer concrete steps for individuals and institutions to support academic freedom. Participants will engage in discussions, explore solutions to support scholars and uphold academic integrity. Join us for practical approaches to protecting academic freedom.

This event is supported by the Volkswagen Foundation.

6. Academic Freedom: Networking and Discussion
8 November | 4-4:50 pm

This session provides a dedicated space for networking and open dialogue on safeguarding academic freedom. Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with key stakeholders, share resources and form new alliances. The focus will be on fostering meaningful conversations about strengthening international academic cooperation and addressing inequalities in global research partnerships.

This event is supported by the Volkswagen Foundation.

7. Academic Freedom: Global Approaches
8 November | 5-5:50 pm

Exploring the global dimensions of academic freedom, this session will address the roles of universities, networks and local initiatives in protecting scholars at risk and promoting collaboration. Participants will hear from distinguished speakers sharing various perspectives and solutions. The session aims to foster international solidarity and strategic action through presentations, discussions, and networking.

This event is supported by the Volkswagen Foundation.

8. Diversity and Equity in Science | by invitation only
9 November | 11:30 am -  pm

This event will address key issues such as the talent loss, bias in research, and the “leaky pipeline” affecting underrepresented groups in science. Through the ‘World Café’ format with engaging presentations, interactive activities, and discussions, participants will explore the current state of diversity both internationally and in Germany, working together to create solutions for a more inclusive scientific environment.

This event is supported by the Klaus Tschira Foundation.

1. Breaking the Wall of Sector Transition | by invitation only
8 November | 10-10:50 am

This exclusive event addresses the challenges female scientists face when transitioning from academia to the corporate world. Despite their extensive expertise, those who have spent significant time in PhD or Postdoc positions are often viewed as "unsuitable" for industry roles. Drawing from her vast experience in leadership roles within major corporations, Simone Menne (American Chamber of Commerce Germany) will offer unique insights into how companies perceive these candidates and what specific skills are sought in the business world. 

This event is supported by the Elsevier Foundation, Volkswagen Foundation, Bayer Foundation, Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) and Klaus Tschira Foundation.

2. Entrepreneurship Education: Tackling Global Challenges
8 November | 11-11:50 am

Join us for an engaging panel discussion on Entrepreneurship Education, exploring how science-driven innovation can address global challenges. Hosted by Young Entrepreneurs in Science, this international panel will feature diverse perspectives to discuss best practices in sciencepreneurship education. In an open format, panelists explore key questions such as: Who are the stakeholders in innovation transfer, and what are their needs? What challenges do they face in entrepreneurship education? 

This event is supported by Young Entrepreneurs in Science, Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF). 

3. Academic Freedom: Breaking Down (New) Walls
8 November | 2-2:50 pm

The major global challenges of our time—climate change, health crises, and migration—demand international collaboration among universities and researchers. However, scientific freedom and international cooperation are under pressure due to war, authoritarian regimes, and populist movements. This session explores the issue of academic freedom in a multipolar world, focusing on recent developments in Ukraine and Russia. Join us for discussions with distinguished speakers on these challenges.  

This event is supported by ZEIT STIFTUNG BUCERIUS. 

4. Natural Hazards and Climate Change
9 November | 9:30-10:20 am

Large populations live in areas prone to natural hazards like volcanism, earthquakes, floods, and landslides, often worsened by climate change. Rising sea levels, shifting rainfall, and melting ice elevate risks for, e.g., tsunamis, volcanic eruptions, and even the frequency of earthquakes. As vulnerable regions grow, more people face danger. This round table will explore research on monitoring, early warning, modeling, and public engagement to help society better prepare for these threats.  

This event is supported by GFZ German Research Centre for Geosciences, Hannover Re Foundation. 

5. Regulating Conflicts in Institutions: Migration, Climate, Identity Politics
9 November | 11-11:50 am

Institutions in pluralist democracies are increasingly faced with fundamental conflicts within their organisations, for instance about questions of migration, climate change, identity politics or, even more topically, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. How can institutions such as universities, foundations or municipalities peacefully regulate such conflicts?  

6. The Limits of Academic Freedom
9 November | 12-12:50 pm

Curated by Anke Beck from Frontiers, this discussion examines threats to academic freedom from political, economic, and social forces. It covers how restrictive data-sharing and reduced funding for "undesirable" research undermine Open Science. The talk emphasises the importance of international collaboration and free access to information while warning policymakers that regulating research risks stifling innovation and hindering the independent pursuit of knowledge.  

7. Future Perspectives– Societal Implications of Scientific Discovery
9 November | 2-5 pm

We invite you to an open-stage dialogue, where selected Breakthrough Day speakers will explore the profound societal and ethical dimensions of their research - now and in the future. In an engaging, moderated discussion, participants will connect with audience members, addressing aspirations and concerns surrounding the future implications of their work together.  

This event is supported by Kavli Foundation. 

8 November | 9 am - 2 pm

We are honored to begin this prestigious symposium with an official opening led by our esteemed moderators and in collaboration with the Wilhelm and Else Heraeus Foundation, a long-standing partner dedicated to advancing science. Together, they will set the stage for a day of exciting discoveries and insightful discussions in the field of physical sciences.

With following speakers:

• Saw Wai Hla, Ohio University/Argonne National Laboratory
• Simon Storz, ETH Zurich
• Thorsten Schumm, Vienna University of Technology
• Ewold Verhagen, AMOLF
• Liang Jie Wong, Nanyang Technological University
• Richard Town, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory
• Martin Zwierlein, Massachussetts Institute of Technology
• Xiaogang Liu, National University of Singapore
• Nils Johan Engelsen, Chalmers Institute of Technology
• Valeria Pettorino, European Space Agency
• Monika Aidelsburger, Max-Planck-Institute of Quantum Optics/Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich
• Moderators:
  • Oliver Benson, Humboldt University
  • Thomas Elsaesser, Max Born Institute

AI Night Kick-Off & Launch of the ELIAS Alliance

AI is rapidly changing the world, making it vital for academia to promote agency skills, empowering people with response-ability. Matthias Bethge, initiator of the AI Night, will open the evening with an interactive thought-provoking session to spark discussions on academia’s role in shaping the future, and introduce the ELIAS Alliance, a new initiative for ‘European Leadership in Innovation with AI & Science’. Throughout the evening, Black Forest Labs will showcase stunning AI-generated images.

This event is supported by Tübingen AI Center and Eberhard Karls University Tübingen

Networked Beings

This an immersive video installation with 360-degree spatial sound. The video artwork presents a visual-auditory dialogue between technology and nature, two distinctly non-human ways of 'being' and processing the world, by juxtaposing an AI network with a fictional dataset - consisting of video recordings of animal perspectives of perception.

AI for Future Camp

Creativity and empirical testing are humanity’s superpowers for shaping the future. While academia’s core task focuses on exchanging research outcomes among peers and classroom lecturing, it is increasingly vital to foster agile interactions with society, engaging a broad spectrum of stakeholders beyond academia. With “KI-macht-Schule", "Bundeswettbewerb KI", and “Polybot”, the AI for Future Camp features three inspiring examples of how academia can help shape the future. 

This event is supported by Tübingen AI Center and Eberhard Karls University Tübingen

Who am I to AI?

What if algorithms decide, who you can date, if you get a job or a loan? As AI models increasingly play a role in decision-making processes in crucial areas, it matters how they assess you. Are the models trained on diverse data or might they objectify biases? Create your own personal AI portrait, playfully explore how AI depicts age and engage in creating inclusive future scenarios. 

This event is supported by Social Science Center Berlin (WZB).

The Potential of Foundation Models

The Helmholtz Foundation Model Initiative will host moderated tandem discussions on Foundation Models, exploring their potential, challenges, applications, and necessity in solving current problems. Each session will pair a representative from the initiative with an expert from industry or academia, and the audience. The discussion will be recorded as podcasts.  

This event is supported by Helmholtz Foundation Model Initiative, Max Delbrück Center.

AI and Its Impact on Democracy, Minorities, and Peace: A Dynamic Interactive Experience

Join us for an engaging exploration of how AI can threaten democracy, freedom, and minority rights. Through talks and discussions, we'll delve into the dangers of fake news, misinformation, and AI-driven manipulation. Discover how these technologies can undermine truth, amplify biases, and jeopardize social justice. Together, we'll examine the urgent need to address AI's impact on democratic values and human rights.  

Futures Canvas

Join us in an answering the question: "What did you learn about AI today that will change your life, and how?" Connect to the platform via the displayed QR codes to share your insights and discover the diverse perspectives of others. Guests will have the opportunity to vote on the relevance of each response, fostering an interactive discussion. The results will be displayed on the main screen, showcasing the collective impact of AI knowledge.  

Painting with AI

Experience creativity with our AI robot, where you can paint and collaborate in real time. This interactive activity allows you to express your artistic vision while the robot responds to your input, creating a unique, dynamic piece of art. 

CITYLAB

Engage in a unique conversation with a tree to discover how AI can revolutionize city planning and its impact on urban nature. This interactive experience invites participants to explore innovative AI solutions for sustainable development, biodiversity preservation, and green spaces. Through this dialogue, uncover the vital relationship between technology and nature, and learn how AI can help create healthier, more livable cities for both residents and the environment.

Interrobang Performance

In this performance, the audience establishes a commune in the digital space and inhabits a specially developed virtual platform. Human participants express political goals, desires, and expectations for communal life, while AIs make suggestions for their implementation. How do AIs handle commune conflicts related to money distribution, cleaning schedules, ownership, power issues, and jealousy? 

Empowering Research: AI in Scientific Publishing

The event explores the four stages of the research cycle—Discover, Write, Submit & Review, and Share—showcasing how AI enhances each step. Attendees can try out AI tools that assist in literature reviews, writing, peer review, and data sharing. These innovations streamline academic research, foster collaboration, and support Open Science, creating a continuous, evolving research cycle. Engage hands-on and experience the future of research firsthand! 

This event is supported by Springer Nature.

ELIAS Alliance: European Value Creation with AI & Science

Built on excellence in AI, the ELIAS Alliance aims to integrate value-creation literacy and future skills into academic curricula. It will link talent between academia and business across Europe, supporting entrepreneurship and foundation model development. From 7 to 9:30 pm, the new nodes in Amsterdam, Barcelona, Cambridge, Copenhagen, Munich, Potsdam, Tübingen, Zurich, plus the foundation model initiative Open Sci and the LaunchPad accelerator, will spotlight key activities every 15 minutes.

This event is supported by Tübingen AI Center and Eberhard Karls University Tübingen

Decision Theater

The Decision Theater (DT) tackles complex global challenges by transforming science and data into actionable tools through a collaborative, iterative process. Focusing on regional transformation, DT creates scalable, adaptable decision support tools that integrate local expertise. In Germany and Europe, DT’s partnership model accelerates impactful projects, offering data-driven solutions for urgent issues. By co-designing with stakeholders, DT fosters acceptance and speeds up real-world decision-making. 

How Artificial Intelligence Drives the Biomedical Revolution

Artificial Intelligence is poised to revolutionize the biomedical field by enhancing diagnostics, treatment personalization, and overall healthcare delivery. In connection to that, our panellists discuss questions around collaborative possibilities on both European and global level: What do they need in order to work effectively? What skills should future scientists develop to effectively leverage AI in their work? What are the ethical and regulatory considerations of AI and biomedicine?

 This event is supported by Boehringer Ingelheim Foundation, Austrian Academy of Sciences