Dat Thanh Nguyen at Heidelberg Laureate Forum 2024
EmpkinS doctoral candidate Dat Thanh Nguyen had the incredible opportunity to attend the 2024 Heidelberg Laureate Forum (HLF), a prestigious networking conference that brings together 200 carefully selected young researchers in mathematics and computer science. Over the course of a week, participants have the rare chance to interact with laureates from these disciplines—recipients of the Abel Prize, ACM A.M. Turing Award, ACM Prize in Computing, Fields Medal, IMU Abacus Medal, and Nevanlinna Prize. Established in 2013, the HLF is organized annually by the Heidelberg Laureate Forum Foundation (HLFF) and provides a unique platform for fostering dialogue between generations of researchers.
During the forum, Dat had the honor of meeting influential figures in computer science and mathematics. Discussions went beyond technical research challenges and career advice. They explored the future of how people will communicate, entertain, and even receive health treatments in 3D environments rather than through traditional 2D images or video. They also touched on the essential role writing plays in daily life and research, with Lamport emphasizing how clear, structured writing is critical for sharing ideas and advancing knowledge.
In addition to these academic discussions, HLF provided a wonderful opportunity to explore the beautiful city of Heidelberg. Dat enjoyed a scenic boat trip along the Neckar River, participated in a dinner at a historic museum, and attended a memorable evening at a castle. These cultural experiences provided the perfect setting for networking with young researchers from across the globe, exchanging ideas, and learning about innovative research being conducted in a wide variety of fields. During these interactions, Dat also shared his work on the EmpkinS project, which focuses on innovative digital and patient-centered diagnostics in medicine and psychology.
The Heidelberg Laureate Forum 2024 was not only a platform for academic exchange but also an enriching personal and cultural experience. Dat returned with a new perspective on his research, new friendships, and a strengthened global network of peers.