Science is important. The natural, engineering and social sciences and the humanities help to build new knowledge which teaches us more about ourselves and the world. Such enhanced understanding and the innovation that may ensue can help to solve problems such as environmental and climate challenges, infrastructural and energy needs, health issues and societal tensions.

ESOF brings together all groups involved in the scientific endeavour. This includes researchers from different disciplines, policy-makers, representatives of industrial R&D, science journalists and the general public. It fosters debate about science and society, presents science and the humanities at the cutting edge and stimulates scientific awareness.

The results of scientific research affect us all. Therefore, scientists have to reach out and involve themselves in a true dialogue on science. ESOF aims at reaching out to the public by incorporating an extensive outreach into the programme. These activities involve hands-on experimentation and curiosity driven questioning.

ESOF reflects the sheer joy and fascination as well as the worries that science can bring. A meeting of this kind becomes truly great only if we all contribute to the dialogue – therefore we invite you to take an active part in all the elements that constitute ESOF!