The MPG LeadNet Symposium 2025 took place at Harnack House in Berlin on October 6 and 7, bringing together a diverse group of researchers and experts from various fields. The symposium's program was designed to showcase the breadth of research being conducted within the Max Planck Society, as well as providing career and networking opportunities — and it did not disappoint.
The event kicked off with a presentation on the 'Last Universal Common Ancestor' (LUCA), which explored the origins of life on Earth through biological, chemical, and geological experiments at the Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology. This was followed by a talk on nanoscale imaging, which highlighted the latest advancements in this field. The symposium also featured a presentation on international financial flows, which provided insights into the complex world of global finance.
In addition to these research-focused talks, the event included career tips and advice from experienced Max Planck directors and external speakers. One of the highlights of the symposium was the evening poster session, which allowed attendees to delve into new and innovative areas of research.
The event also included an overview of the diverse activities of the Max Planck Foundation, which supports the Max Planck Society's research endeavors and creates financial freedom for researchers.
MPDL's contribution to the LeadNet Symposium consisted of a workshop on 'AI Tools in Science'. The workshop encouraged participants to think creatively about how AI could transform their field of research within the next five years. The session was highly interactive, with attendees engaging enthusiastically in discussions and idea-sharing.
Overall, the LeadNet Symposium 2025 was a successful event that provided a platform for knowledge-sharing, collaboration, and innovation. It may even have sparked new research ideas to be explored in future.
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