Federal Research Minister Dorothee Bär opened Science Year 2026 in Berlin under the theme “Medicine of the Future.” Speaking at the Futurium, Bär emphasized that research is the foundation for prevention, quality healthcare, and a high-performing health system.

The Science Year focuses on new medical approaches, ranging from prevention to care, as well as the use of artificial intelligence and biotechnology. The aim is to detect diseases early and develop new treatments. Bär highlighted the importance of gender-sensitive health research, noting significant gaps in knowledge about how diseases manifest differently in women and men.

Science Years are a joint initiative of the Federal Ministry of Education and Research and the organization “Science in Dialogue.” They have been held since 2000 and are considered a central tool for science communication.

Research institutes, universities, associations, companies, and institutions across Germany are participating in Science Year 2026. According to the ministry, up to 1,000 events are planned, including a university competition, educational models for schools, a traveling exhibition, and the exhibition ship “MS Wissenschaft,” which will visit numerous German cities from May to September.

Sources - Agencies