Plattform

The labs are innovative, transdisciplinary ‘think tanks’ that operate both nationally and internationally. Their work builds on existing research projects conducted by Senckenberg scientists and is developed further in a targeted manner. The aim is to collaborate with social and political actors to derive practical solutions from scientific knowledge.

In the first phase, two pilot labs were set up: one at the Natural History Collections in Dresden and one at the Biodiversity and Climate Research Centre in Frankfurt. From 2026 onwards, four labs will operate in parallel each year.

The platform supports the individual labs in conducting workshops with social actors, strengthens communication and the transmission of results, and thus increases the effectiveness of the labs.

Additionally, the platform fosters collaboration between labs by facilitating joint activities and creating spaces for mutual learning. In cooperation with ISOE, workshops and training courses are offered for motivated researchers, in which transdisciplinary skills are taught. The events take place at various locations of the Senckenberg Society for Nature Research.

Responding to today’s biodiversity challenges, the platform focuses on open dialogue between science, the public and institutional actors. The aim is to build mutual understanding and trust as a basis for effective action in biodiversity conservation.

Strategic alliances are formed both with partners who pursue similar goals and with those whose interests initially appear to be in conflict. Joint learning and the targeted development of practical skills open up new perspectives and solutions.

For Senckenberg, the platform offers the opportunity to establish new networks, identify gaps in research and strengthen the applicability of scientific findings. This generates valuable impetus for the research programme – with a particular focus on practical relevance.