Bettina Rockenbach Becomes First Female President of the Leopoldina
Halle, Germany – On March 1, 2023, behavioral economist Bettina Rockenbach of the University of Cologne will assume the presidency of the Leopoldina, the German National Academy of Sciences. Her appointment marks a historic milestone for the prestigious institution, as she becomes the first woman to hold the position in its 373-year history.
Rockenbach, 61, has been a member of the Leopoldina since 2013 and currently holds professorships at the University of Cologne and the Max Planck Institute in Bonn. Her research focuses on behavioral economics, with a particular emphasis on experimental economics and experimental psychology.
Her election to the presidency was hailed as a "historic moment" by Thomas Wünsch, State Secretary for Science. "After 373 years and 27 male predecessors, for the first time a woman will lead the Leopoldina," he said. "Her scientific excellence and her commitment to socially relevant topics make her the ideal president."
Established in 1652, the Leopoldina is the oldest scientific academy in the world. It comprises 1,600 members who serve as advisors to the German government on scientific matters and represent the country in international scientific affairs.
Breaking Barriers and Setting an Example
Rockenbach’s appointment as president is a testament to the growing prominence of women in science and the breaking down of long-standing gender barriers. The Leopoldina has long been dominated by male scholars, but in recent years, it has made significant strides towards greater diversity and inclusivity.
Rockenbach’s term as president is expected to focus on further enhancing the Leopoldina’s role in advising policymakers on scientific issues. She has emphasized the importance of evidence-based decision-making and the need for scientists to engage with society in shaping the future.
"I am honored and humbled to be the first woman president of the Leopoldina," Rockenbach said. "I believe that science can make a profound contribution to addressing the challenges facing our society, and I am committed to working with the Leopoldina’s members to support this vital mission."
Expanding the Leopoldina’s Global Reach
In addition to her work within Germany, Rockenbach is also dedicated to fostering international scientific collaborations. She has served on various international scientific committees and has been involved in research projects in countries around the world.
As president of the Leopoldina, Rockenbach aims to expand the academy’s global reach and strengthen its relationships with international scientific organizations. She believes that sharing scientific knowledge and expertise across borders is essential for advancing scientific progress and addressing global challenges.
A Legacy of Scientific Excellence
The Leopoldina has a rich history of scientific excellence, counting among its former members such luminaries as Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz, Carl Friedrich Gauss, and Albert Einstein. Bettina Rockenbach’s presidency is a continuation of this legacy, bringing new perspectives and vision to the academy as it navigates the complex scientific landscape of the 21st century.
Her appointment as the first female president is a symbol of progress and serves as an inspiration to women and girls everywhere. It underscores the importance of diversity and inclusion in science, and it sets a powerful example for the future of scientific leadership.
