German Academy of Sciences Leopoldina
Overview
The German Academy of Sciences Leopoldina (national academy of sciences) is one of the oldest scientific institutions in the world. It was founded in 1652 under the name "Leopoldina" and received the right to award doctoral degrees in 1677. The Leopoldina is dedicated to the advancement of science for the benefit of humankind and the preservation of the natural basis of life.
History
The Leopoldina was founded on 1 January 1652 in the Free Imperial City of Schweinfurt by four physicians: Johann Lorenz Bausch, Johann Michael Fehr, Johann Georg Fuchs von Dornheim, and Otto Friedrich Waldner von Freundstein. The academy was originally called the Academia Naturae Curiosorum, which can be translated as "Academy of the Curious in Nature". In 1677, Emperor Leopold I recognized the academy and granted it the imperial privilege to award the doctoral degree, which is why the academy was renamed "Leopoldina".
Role and Function
The Leopoldina is a scholarly society that conducts interdisciplinary discussions to provide scientific advice on social issues. It represents the German scientific community in international committees and speaks out on social and political questions, providing a nonpartisan, factual framework for discussion. It promotes scientific and public debate, supports young researchers, confers awards, conducts research projects, and campaigns for the human rights of persecuted scientists.
Membership
The Leopoldina has a membership of around 1,600 scientists, which includes renowned researchers from Germany, Austria, Switzerland and many other countries. The members are organized into 28 sections according to their subject areas. The membership is a lifetime honor, conferred after a multi-stage selection process, and it cannot be applied for or inherited.
Publications
The Leopoldina issues various publications to provide scientific information for policy makers and the public. These include position papers, statements, recommendations, and the Leopoldina newsletter. The academy also publishes the "Nova Acta Leopoldina", which is one of the oldest scientific journals in Europe.