20 Years of the Römer Foundation

This year’s Römer Celebration also marks a milestone anniversary for the Römer Foundation, which celebrates its 20th year of existence. The foundation was established in 2005 by Dr. Klaus Römer, himself a chemist, who—after a successful entrepreneurial career in Germany and the United States—wished to dedicate part of his assets to supporting chemical research in Germany. For the Departments of Chemistry and Biochemistry at our faculty, this proved to be a rare stroke of luck, as Dr. Römer approached LMU, located near his home in Berg, making it possible to establish the Römer Prizes.

These scholarships (ranging from €500 to €10,000) recognize early-career researchers who have distinguished themselves through outstanding research during their master’s thesis, doctoral work, postdoctoral or habilitation phase, or while leading a junior research group. The funds can be used, for example, to support scientific development through conference participation, research stays abroad for collaboration purposes, literature acquisition, or IT equipment.

The Römer Prizes make excellent research visible and motivate and support the next generation of scientists. In addition, particularly during the early years of the foundation, it was a key concern of Dr. Römer to strengthen Germany as a research location in comparison to the United States, which at the time offered very attractive research opportunities. Prof. Thomas Klapötke, Managing Director of the former Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry in 2005, served as the primary contact during the foundation’s establishment. Today he remarks: “This foundation is unique within our faculty and specifically supports outstanding young scientists, encouraging them—especially—to pursue their scientific careers in Germany.”

Twenty years after its founding, it is clear that the foundation has often shown remarkable intuition in identifying promising talent (many awardees now hold professorships). Moreover, the annual celebratory event at which the prizes are presented has become a highlight of the faculty’s academic calendar. The Friday afternoon at year’s end, when the Departments of Chemistry and Biochemistry come together to honor excellent research achievements and ceremonially award master’s degree certificates, greatly enriches faculty life.

At this year’s celebration on Friday, December 5, nineteen award recipients will be honored. As every year, the master’s graduates will also receive their certificates. A highlight of the event will be the keynote lecture by Prof. Patrick Cramer, who has a special connection to the foundation, as he accompanied its establishment in 2005 in his former role as Director of the Gene Center. In his lecture, the President of the Max Planck Society will offer reflections on “The New World of Science.”

More Information: Web site of the Römer Foundation