What does basic research have to do with us? How does scientific work work? Who are the people behind science? Why is research collaborative?
‘Diversity of Biodiversity’ provides initial answers to these and other questions. The exhibition on the social relevance of basic research marks the launch of Ludwig, Max + U, the new science communication platform for exhibitions and dialogues at Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich.
UnDesignUnit played a key role in the creation of the exhibition. Drawing on interviews with experts and a co-creative workshop, Sarah Dorkenwald and Karianne Fogelberg developed the foundations for the exhibition’s content and educational approaches – in collaboration with curator Julia Maria Otte, the participating scientists from the Faculty of Biology, and the design team comprising Carina Deuschl, Lena Becker and Achim Reichert.
Building on this, an exhibition was created that highlights the diversity of biodiversity in research in an aesthetically sophisticated and visually engaging way.
Unusual exhibits, explanatory graphics and accessible texts illustrate the breadth of research, ranging from fundamental work to field research, and from rigorous species identification to visionary ideas.
The exhibition features seven researchers from LMU’s Faculty of Biology, each with their own specific fields of research. They are presented as individuals with their own working methods, visions and collaborations.
The exhibition exemplifies how close collaboration between science and design can open up new approaches to research.
The exhibition opened on 30 September 2025 and runs until September 2026.
Diversität der Biodiversität – exhibition of Ludwig, Max + U
Thomas-Mann-Halle (1st floor, North wing)
LMU München
Geschwister-Scholl-Platz 1
80539 München
Opening hours: 09:00 until 20:00
Free entrance
