Research for all

LMU has created “Ludwig, Max + U” to present current research issues and findings to a wide audience. “Ludwig, Max + U showcases the beauty and social value of top-level research,” says Professor Francesca Biagini, Vice President for Mathematics and Computer Sciences at LMU and initiator of the platform. “This new dialog platform offers a stage for our researchers to present the excellent research being conducted at LMU to the general public through innovative and appealing formats.” To this end, an exhibition space has been created in LMU’s historic main building, which will host new exhibitions every year.

The first exhibition features researchers from the Faculty of Biology, who give insights into their current work in 3D exhibits. One of the participants is molecular biologist Professor Annika Guse. She researches symbioses which enable corals and anemones to use light as an energy source through cooperation with algae. The exhibition looks at the complex relationships between the species, the importance of coral reefs as a biodiversity hotspot, and the factors that currently endanger the sensitive balance.

“I see it as an important part of my job to get the public interested in our research,” emphasizes Annika Guse. “The interdisciplinary format of the exhibition brings together text, images, and objects in a playful and highly esthetic manner. This type of science communication is pioneering and I’m delighted to be part of it this year!”

Dr. Johanna Geuder (Chair of Anthropology and Human Genomics), Professor Marc Gottschling (Chair of Systematics, Biodiversity & Evolution of Plants), Dr. Carolin Haug and Professor Joachim Haug (zoomorphology), Professor Silke Robatzek (molecular plant-microbe interactions), and Professor Herwig Stibor (Chair of Aquatic Ecology) are also using the possibilities of the new dialog platform to present their research to the general public.

“Ludwig, Max + U demonstrates what happens when science and design converge – fact-based esthetics with effective learning,” says Julia Maria Otte, curator and project manager of Ludwig, Max + U. The exhibition describes the various research areas in accessible language and draws connections with visitors’ everyday lives, encouraging them to reflect on biodiversity and science. A ‘selfie station’ allows them to capture their attendance and become part of the exhibition and the LMU community.

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