Science Forum Chemistry (WiFo)

From August 29 to September 1, the GDCh will host the next Science Forum Chemistry (WiFo), the most important chemistry congress in the German-speaking world. For the first time, we will hold the WiFo entirely in the digital space. It's a shame that we won't be able to meet in person. But the new format also offers opportunities for interaction and communication. Opening ceremonies, award ceremonies, poster sessions, scientific discussion and casual exchanges during coffee breaks, all of these will be possible at the digital WiFo. Be curious and dare the experiment "WiFo 2021" together with us!

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Our motto "Chemists create solutions" already indicates that chemists have a crucial role to play in solving societal challenges. We have deliberately chosen an English motto this time, because as scientists we know how important collaborations across disciplinary and geographical borders are and we would like to explicitly invite foreign colleagues to participate in WiFo. Here we are also very pleased about the cooperation with the Austrian Chemical Society (GÖCh). The digital implementation enables you to participate no matter where in the world you happen to be. The proportion of English-language events will be significantly higher than at past science forums, also to send a signal that the GDCh is continuing to vigorously drive forward its internationalization efforts.

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Each day of the event will be devoted to a "megatopic" of high social relevance. Plenary symposia at the beginning of each event day will shed light on the topics from different angles. The plenary symposium on Monday, August 30, will be highly topical: "How to Avoid the Next Pandemic - Fighting Infectious Diseases of the Future." On Tuesday, August 31, the topic will be "Chemistry for Future Energy Solutions," and on Wednesday, September 1, we will address "Perspectives for a Green Future."

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In addition, there will also be the tried-and-tested specialist group lectures, so that you can also keep up to date with the latest developments in your field. You will also have ample opportunity for networking and scientific discussion in the poster sessions.

Not only the professional exchange, but also the communication with the public are important to us. Therefore, there will again be a "ChemistrySlam" and we are very pleased that the chemist and science journalist Mai Thi Nguyen-Kim, who has meanwhile been honored with the Federal Cross of Merit and many other awards, will receive the GDCh Award for Writers and Journalists at the WiFo.

Join us at WiFo 2021 - it's worth it!

Your

Peter R. Schreiner

President of the GDCh