The National Academy of Sciences admits IPK scientist Nicolaus von Wirén as member

“When I received the news about my election by the members of the Leopoldina, I was of course surprised, but also extremely pleased. On the one hand, I see the acceptance as a great honour and obligation to represent plant and agricultural sciences there to the best of my knowledge, and on the other hand, I see the acceptance as a distinction for our work, which I owe first and foremost to the excellent scientific and collegial environment at the IPK,” says Prof. Dr. Nicolaus von Wirén.

“Without the financial and material support at the Institute, but above all without the stimulating research and expertise that is available here, I would certainly not have reached this point. In this respect, I also see this award as one for the whole IPK.”

Only a few months ago, Prof. Dr. Nicolaus von Wirén was named one of the most influential scientists in his field by the Web of Science, probably the most important citation and literature database worldwide. As a “Highly Cited Researcher”, he is among the researchers who have been cited most frequently by their colleagues in the past ten years.

The German Academy of Sciences Leopoldina, founded in 1652, is a classical learned society with around 1,600 members from almost all fields of science. About three quarters of its members come from Germany, Switzerland and Austria, the Academy’s home countries. The Leopoldina expects its members to contribute to the preparation of scientific statements, studies and expert reports on topics of current social importance.

In 2008, the Leopoldina was appointed Germany’s National Academy of Sciences. In this function, it has two special tasks: representing German science abroad and advising politicians and the public. The Leopoldina stands up for the freedom and appreciation of science.

As the National Academy of Sciences, the Leopoldina sets topics in scientific communication and policy advice in exchange with other institutions, also on an international level. In its policy advisory function, the Academy submits recommendations on socially relevant topics. The current president is the climate researcher Prof. Dr. Gerald Haug.

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