More than 600 young researchers and about 70 Nobel laureates from around the world gathered at the 75th Lindau Nobel Laureate Meeting in early July of this year. Under the theme “75 Years and Beyond – Science Transcending Borders,” this year’s event focused on interdisciplinary scientific topics.
Sarah Fritsche, a master’s student in the research group led by Kristian Franze (Max-Planck Zentrum für Physik und Medizin) and Leonhard Möckl (Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light), presented her work there. She shared initial results at the “Next Gen Science Sessions.”
Sugar-based modifications of proteins and their impact on brain mechanics
In her research, Fritsche explores why some brains develop malformations that can lead to diseases such as drug-resistant epilepsy – while others fold correctly. Initial findings suggest that there may be a connection between sugar-based modifications of proteins, the stiffness of the brain, and its functions. Sarah Fritsche and Sebastián Vásquez Sepúlveda, a doctoral student in Prof. Kristian Franze’s department, are investigating this connection together.
The department is studying how mechanical factors such as local cell and tissue compliance affect the development of brain disorders. Leonhard Möckl’s research group comes into play when visualizing sugar structures in the brain: This group focuses on the glycocalyx, a complex sugar structure located on the surface of every cell. The glycocalyx is the first point of interaction with components of the cellular environment, such as hormones, pathogens, or nutrients. Its composition is unique to each cell type.
A Unique Exchange Between Nobel Laureates and Early-Career Researchers
“I really enjoyed talking with other young scientists and Nobel laureates. What stuck with me most is how much fun even highly experienced researchers still have with their work,” says Sarah Fritsche about her time in Lindau. The conference took place from June 28 to July 3, 2026.
About the meeting
The Lindau Nobel Laureate Meetings – established in 1951 – provide a globally recognized forum for exchange between Nobel Laureates and young scientists. They inspire scientific generations and build sustainable networks of young scientists around the world.
The idea for the meetings originated with two Lindau physicians, Dr. Franz Karl Hein and Prof. Dr. Gustav Wilhelm Parade, together with Count Lennart Bernadotte af Wisborg. They were among the first to recognize the significance of such meetings for fostering reconciliation in post-war Europe and went on to systematically develop them into an international forum for the exchange of knowledge across nations, cultures, and disciplines.
Use our AI to tailor your resume for this Lindau Nobel Laureate Meeting: Sarah Fritsche presents research on brain development position at Max-Planck-Institut für die Physik des Lichts.