29 April – 3 May | Public days 1 – 3 May 2019

Halle (Saale), Germany

The GYA Anniversary International Conference of Young Scientists and Annual General Meeting (AGM) celebrates the 10th anniversary of the GYA. Recognizing that the GYA thrives from the activities of its 200 members and builds on the work of its over 200 alumni, all are invited to play an active role in this Anniversary AGM.

Re-enlightenment? Truth, reason and science in a global world

With the rise of post-fact concerns, Enlightenment is again a hotly debated topic. We understand “enlightenment” here in a broad sense and from a global perspective. Enlightenment as a global concept means connecting to reality and truth. It relates to core values such as critical thinking, freedom of thought and scientific achievement, and is in opposition to science denial, post-fact and post-truth movements.

As a global organisation aiming to empower early-career researchers to lead international, interdisciplinary, and inter-generational evidence-informed dialogue, the GYA welcomes a debate about re-enlightenment: framed around a reflection on the role and limits of science in today’s globalized society and on how science can help in solving its problems.

The Re-enlightenment theme will also be a foil to discuss the core principles that animate the GYA itself. In interactive sessions, members, alumni and guests will be invited to question, debate and develop the values that characterize the GYA spirit. At the 2019 annual meeting, we will therefore not only highlight the growth and accomplishments of our global network, but also develop a vision for its future.