Once every year, the Lindau Nobel Laureate meeting brings together Nobel Laureates and the next generation of scientists from around the world. This year, three outstanding early-career researchers from the Max-Planck-Institut für Kernphysik in Heidelberg were selected to participate in the prestigious event. Dr Chloé Goupy from the KATRIN neutrino experiment and Dr Robert Hammann from the XENON dark-matter search, both members of Division Mertens, were joined by Georg Schwefer from Division Hinton, whose research focuses on diffuse gamma-ray emission with the H.E.S.S. and HAWC observatories. The three researchers were selected in recognition of their scientific excellence and their contributions to forefront research in astroparticle physics.
The 2026 meeting marked a special milestone as the 75th edition of the Lindau Nobel Laureate Meetings. Since 1951, the meetings have brought together Nobel Laureates and outstanding young scientists from around the globe to foster dialogue across generations, disciplines, and cultures. The anniversary edition welcomed participants from all scientific fields, offering lectures, panel discussions, informal exchanges, and numerous opportunities to build lasting international collaborations.
Reflecting on the experience, Chloé Goupy described the meeting as “a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” highlighting not only the opportunity to meet Nobel Laureates, but also the inspiring discussions on topics such as scientific freedom, science diplomacy, and the relationship between academic and industrial research. Robert Hammann emphasised the exceptional atmosphere throughout the week: “Some really nice talks, good discussions with both laureates and young scientists, and generally a very good atmosphere.” Georg Schwefer likewise praised the event for bringing together young researchers from diverse disciplines and creating an inspiring environment for scientific exchange.
The Institute warmly congratulates the scientists on this well-deserved recognition. Their selection reflects the high quality of research carried out at MPIK and highlights the important role of international scientific exchange in shaping the next generation of researchers.
