Heidelberg Laureate Forum Foundation

Welcome to the

In 2013, the co-founder of SAP, Klaus Tschira, established the nonprofit Heidelberg Laureate Forum Foundation (HLFF) with the goal of fostering mathematics and computer science.

The HLFF organizes the annual Heidelberg Laureate Forum (HLF), a networking conference where 200 outstanding young researchers in mathematics and computer science interact with the recipients of the most renowned prizes in the fields. Another primary focus of the Foundation is turning the public’s attention toward mathematics and computer science, not only to awaken but to strengthen their interest through events and exhibitions held in their Mathematics Informatics Station (MAINS).

The HLFF is funded by the German foundation Klaus Tschira Stiftung (KTS), which supports the natural sciences, mathematics and computer science, while striving to increase their appreciation. Education, research and science communication are the foundation’s three primary areas of focus.

10 Years of the HLFF

2023 is a very special year: The Heidelberg Laureate Forum Foundation (HLFF) turns 10 years old and September will feature the 10th Heidelberg Laureate Forum (HLF). To celebrate the occasion, every month we will be debuting at least one Special – whether for the MAINS or the HLF, digital or live, regional or international: There is something for everyone! A very special thanks to the Klaus Tschira Stiftung, without whom none of this would be possible.

HLF Laureate Portraits: Endre Szemerédi

Continuing our updated series of HLF Laureate Portraits, we turn this time to Endre Szemerédi – recipient of the 2012 Abel Prize for “fundamental contributions to discrete mathematics and theoretical computer science, and in recognition of the profound and lasting impact of these contributions on additive number theory and ergodic theory.” Join us for an insightful journey into Szemerédi’s life and career.

"Wallpaper Pattern Groups" Workshop

Dive into the fascinating world of patterns and groups with the "Wallpaper Pattern Groups" workshop! Anna Schilling guided participants in exploring the peculiarities of so-called wallpaper patterns. The workshop was conducted in cooperation with the Research Station Geometry and Dynamics, and took place in the MAINS on May 13, from 2 to 4 p.m.

Science Notes "Energy of the Future"

On April 20, the MAINS hosted once again the Science Notes, this time featuring the topic "The Energy of the Future ". Furthermore, as not only the Heidelberg Laureate Forum Foundation but the Science Notes themselves are celebrating their 10th anniversary this year, we had prepared a special guest for the evening: "The Physikanten" with a very special performance of "500,000 Volts" from their spectacular science show.

Do-It-Yourself Geometry

Celebrating the International Day of Mathematics, the MAINS hosted a mathematics crafts event for the whole family. On March 18, mathematician and science journalist Christoph Pöppe showed kids how to build a variety of geometric shapes out of cardboard.

New Exhibition – The Fascinating World of Mirrors

Starting February 12, the Heidelberg Laureate Forum Foundation’s (HLFF) anniversary year will feature its first new exhibition in the MAINS: "The Fascinating World of Mirrors". Visitors ages 8 and up can experience and experiment with a variety of interactive exhibits by the Wolfsburger Science-Center phaeno, all revolving around the exciting world or mirrors.

New HLF Laureate Portrait – Alessio Figalli

To commemorate 10 years of the HLFF, we will be rolling out a number of Specials throughout our anniversary year! First off is a brand new update to a long-running series of ours, the HLF Laureate Portraits. Check out our newest HLF Laureate Portrait on Fields Medal recipient Alessio Figalli, where we sit down with him to discuss his career, his passions and his achievements.