Creative science: Exhibition “Alzheimer’s Research Meets Art” provides insights into the world of biomedicine

Curiosity and wonder – these are two important qualities that distinguish a researcher, according to Prof. Philipp Beckhove, Scientific Director at LIT: “Science is a highly emotional and creative process,” he said at the exhibition opening. Those who conduct research in biomedicine in particular must consider the context; in other words, they must try to understand disease mechanisms as well as the system of life down to the molecular level. The results of years of research in the laboratory then gradually give rise to pieces of a puzzle that reveal connections, enable hypotheses, and thus create images.

“We researchers think in colors and images,” confirmed Prof. Stefan Rüdiger, before going into detail about the creative process behind his paintings. The head of a biomedical research laboratory at Utrecht University studies the molecular processes in human cells that underlie neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and Huntington’s disease.

Prof. Wolfgang Herr, Director of the Department of Internal Medicine III at Regensburg University Hospital, who was also present in his capacity as Dean of Research at the University of Regensburg’s Faculty of Medicine, emphasized the medical relevance of Alzheimer’s and dementia research for society. From Rüdiger’s point of view, it is also one of the tasks of publicly funded science to actively engage with people and inform them about complex topics, such as Alzheimer’s research. Formats such as an art exhibition opened up new ways of engaging in conversation. Prof. Udo Hebel, President of the University of Regensburg, and Dr. Astrid Freudenstein, Mayor of the City of Regensburg, also showed great interest.