“Embrace risk and pursue what really fascinates you”

What advice would you give to aspiring scientists or those aiming for success in the field?

Pursue what deeply fascinates you and enables you to explore uncharted territories. Avoid merely chasing external suggestions. A young scientist who simply follows their supervisor’s instructions won’t attain long-term success. Success stems from pioneering new paths, even ones that supervisors may initially dismiss as unfruitful. Therefore, a measure of defiance and innovation is essential. A passion for science and perseverance are critical. All the Nobel Prize laureates I know began with this approach. They nurtured unconventional ideas that initially found few believers.

Take Svante Pääbo, the 2022 Nobel Laureate in Medicine, for example. He aimed to sequence Neanderthal DNA, a notion many deemed implausible due to contamination and chemical degradation of the DNA. Thanks to tenacious determination and an unwavering belief in his pursuit, Pääbo overcame setbacks and ultimately succeeded. These pioneers also possess the resilience to endure challenging phases.

Of course, the scientific landscape has evolved considerably; a fact that has to be considered, too. The era I experienced involved relocating frequently, accepting appointments, and uprooting families. That period has passed. At the present time, it has become more challenging to uproot one’s life constantly. Certain conditions must be met, such as accommodating dual careers, and providing quality childcare and international schools. The core responsibility of contemporary research policy is to consider the entire family when appointing international researchers.

What does Germany need to do to compete with global leaders in research and technology?

First and foremost, let’s not underestimate our achievements. The Max Planck Society, for instance, enjoys a strong standing. During my tenure, we secured six Nobel Prizes and a Fields Medal. This surpasses many esteemed American universities. Thus, we’re not lagging behind scientifically. We’re capable of keeping pace, even in cuttingedge arenas like quantum science.

Germany’s challenge lies in converting science into technology. This requires new approaches and unconventional methods. The trajectory leads towards integrated research sites where universities and research institutes collaborate closely, attracting modern businesses. These sites gain momentum that transcends the impact of individual institutions. I anticipate that the German national Agency for Leap Innovations (Agentur für Sprunginnovationen SPRIND), which was a suggestion of mine, will play a vital role in advancing innovation in Germany. While we do excel in fundamental research, we can definitely infuse more vitality into translating findings into novel products, a domain where other nations are more successful.

Another pressing issue in Germany involves limited industrial partnerships in certain sectors. Our strengths lie in materials, the chemical industry, mechanical engineering, and automotive sectors. However, we lag in modern fields like IT and software development, where domestic competitive partners are scarce. This lack of relevant companies issues in difficulties when translating research outcomes into practical applications.

A more personal question: What’s next on your agenda?

I plan to dedicate more time to personal matters and family. This aspect suffered during my nearly 17 years in science policy. Additionally, I’m thrilled to return to MPIE with a small emeritus group. I’m looking forward to conducting a couple of experiments, including those involving electrochemistry in ultra-high vacuum. Collaborating with young scientists is another exciting prospect that motivates me.

You stepped out of your routine at MPIE, spent time in Munich, and now you're back. How does it feel to re-enter this new phase after such an extended absence?

I’m not certain that I can answer that just yet, as this new phase is in its beginning stages. During my tenure as President of the Max Planck Society, my days were meticulously structured, fully booked months or sometimes up to a year in advance. A team of dedicated secretaries precisely organized every available moment, including lunch breaks. Consequently, personal freedom to arrange appointments was limited; it was paramount that I adhered to preset timelines.

Now, I have gained a vast amount of freedom back. Adapting appropriately to this change is an ongoing process. I can structure my own days, and I’m eagerly anticipating this. Moreover, my family has grown. I now have six young grandchildren. During my time in Munich, I hardly interacted with the two youngest ones. Only recently did I get to know them better upon returning here. Life has become more private, and that's a significant positive change.

Thank you immensely for this insightful interview!

(Source: Press Release of Max Planck-Institut für Eisenforschung GmbH. The interview was conducted by Yasmin Ahmed Salem.)