The question “where the future will take us” is misleading. Despite all limitations of our skills, talents, and influence: it is we who lead into the future. Especially as scientists, we are obliged to use our specific skills as well as our values, creativity and compassion to create a sustainable future for all children and grandchildren.After studying botany, zoology, microbiology, and biomathematics in Tübingen and at Duke University and completing a PhD in Bayreuth, I originally specialized in interdisciplinary research between biodiversity and computer science. My guiding question was: how can we stop the current destruction of our natural resources and biodiversity?Since 2016, my research interest has shifted to how scientists can contribute to a sustainable future. As a framework I use the “donut” concept, which links planetary boundaries (such as biodiversity loss, land use change, N+P cycles, or climate change) to human social goals. Specifically, I examine the role of science, scientists, and science communication. What are the social, political, and psychological factors driving or hindering the transition to sustainability? How are current crises, including climate and biodiversity, related and what are common causes and solutions?In February 2019, I launched Scientists for Future (S4F), which published a scientific statement in support of the Fridays for Future movement that was signed by over 26800 colleagues (Hagedorn et al., GAIA 2019) and a letter by an international alliance (Hagedorn et al., Science 2019). S4F is a non-institutional, non-partisan, interdisciplinary alliance of scientists committed to a sustainable future and to inter- and transdisciplinary science communication.My motto is: Whether we as scientists remain silent or speak - both are political.Skills and Interests: Public speaking; Sustainability crisis; Digital Transformation of Science and Society; Biodiversity informatics; Community Collaboration Platforms; Computer-aided Identification Methods and Algorithms.Contact:Dr. Gregor HagedornMuseum für Naturkunde – Leibniz-Institut für Evolutions- und BiodiversitätsforschungInvalidenstr. 43, 10115 BerlineMail: name@gmail.com | (please replace 'name'​ with 'g.m.hagedorn'​;