The Present and Future of Astronomy - A Critical Look at Hiring, Evaluation Processes, the Way we do Science, and our Role in Society

Published: 20 Dec 2021
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In this online workshop, which will take place from 14 to 18 February 2022, ESO invites the astronomical community to discuss several important aspects related to the way science is done, together with professionals from different scientific and social disciplines. On the first day of the workshop, philosophers will lead a discussion of the scientific method and its use in the modern world while the use of metrics in evaluation processes and distribution of funds will be discussed in the following days. One day will be dedicated to mental health in research, a topic of primary importance especially after the severe restrictions on scientific life due to the COVID19 pandemic. Finally, the workshop will be closed with a discussion about the role of astronomy in society.

On each day, one hour will be dedicated to a discussion involving the attendees and the speakers of the day. The conference webpage contains more information and instructions on how to register and attend the workshop.

Participation is free of charge and the registration is now open. Scientists, and particularly those in their early career stages, are invited to submit an abstract for a contributed talk in any of the topics covered during the workshop.