14^th German-American Frontiers of Science Symposium

June 11 - 14, 2008
Potsdam, Germany

The Alexander von Humboldt Foundation and the U.S. National Academy of Sciences collaborate to organize the German-American Frontiers of Science Symposia. Each summer the symposia bring together approximately 70 outstanding young scientists (under the age of 45). The participants, half from the United States and half from Germany, represent all disciplines within the natural sciences. The symposia take place in Germany and the United States in alternating years.

During the 4-day symposium, 24 scientists present their current research to the scientifically diverse audience. All presentations follow an interdisciplinary approach and illustrate research at the cutting-edge of other disciplines. Presenters point to the major challenges in their area of expertise and the limitations to progress at the frontiers of their respective fields. The symposia are intended to stimulate new discussions across disciplines, encourage the exchange of knowledge, and offer participants a start to a productive long-term cooperation with other young scientists in different fields. Since 2002 the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation supports collaborations between German and U.S. participants with its special follow-up program CONNECT.

Participants are selected from a pool of outstanding young scientists who have already contributed significantly to sciences. Many of them have been awarded with highly competitive fellowships, prizes, and awards.