The view from Germany

The UK has long seen Germany as a rival politically but also scientifically and the history of our discipline, especially in the 19th century, shuttles back and forth. For example, the burgeoning field of synthetic organic chemistry, with its dyes and drugs, helped build the two countries economically as well as scientifically.

Since moving here just over a year ago I can’t help but be continually reminded of the scientific heritage that surrounds me. A statue of Robert Bunsen stands part way down the main street here in Heidelberg and his name, and the name of many other scientists, is repeated on street signs in the town.

Your choice of degree determines your career much more here than perhaps it does in the UK

But how does Germany differ from the UK in terms of science education, and can Germany and Britain learn from each other when it comes to supporting the next generation of scientists?