Science in Exile – A documentary about researchers turned refugees

They are scientists in developing countries, committed to a life of research. Focused on fields ranging from agriculture to climate change and medical care to economics, they are pursuing discoveries and innovations that will improve life for the people in their countries, and their regions. But then comes a conflict, a war. Universities are bombed. Colleagues disappear, or are killed. And those who remain – what should they do? Where should they go?

“Science in Exile” explores how recent violence in Syria, Yemen and Iraq has threatened the lives of four researchers, forcing them to suspend their work and flee their homelands. The same decision has confronted uncounted thousands of their colleagues globally – scientists, engineers, doctors and medical researchers, advanced science students.

“Science in Exile” challenges the common stereotypes of refugees from a war-ravaged region. It finds women and men with years of training and experience who are struggling to find a place in new lands – a safe place where they can continue their research and make a scientific contribution.

Begin: 6 pm

After the film there will be a discussion panel. On the podium:

Dr. Awab Younus

Dr. Hamdi Alsaffouri

Univ.-Prof. Dr. Katharine Sarikakis

Moderator: Mag. Maiada Hadaia

Please register – seats will be limited!

Photographs will be taken and used for publication on EURAXESS websites and social media channels (Facebook) as well as printed materials and power point presentations for the purpose of reporting and documentation.

Science in Exile, 2017 (37 min., English audio with English subtitles)

Directed by Nicole Leghissa

Produced by Edward Lempinen

The World Academy of Sciences TWAS

OeAD, Saal 1, Ebendorferstraße 7, 1010 Vienna