ZENDOME. "Jugend forscht"

This year in Ludwigshafen there was a double anniversary: ​​First BASF celebrated its 150th anniversary of the company and, second, the Federal Competition "Youth in Science" was held for the fiftieth time. As this year's corporate sponsor, the chemical company addressed the anniversary finale of the famous competition for young people together with Stiftung Jugend forscht e. V. from 26 to 30 May 2015. This is the third time BASF has worked with the youth foundation: In 1971 and 2003 the German group hosted the finale round. But the researching youth have been a long-time partner of the chemical giant; BASF has hosted the state competitions in Rhineland-Palatinate since the events began in 1965.

The exciting national competition gathered all young researchers who have won one of the first prizes at one of the state competitions. In seven different categories, the best of the best thus competed for the crown of young researchers. A ZENDOME.300M provided an ideal setting besides the BASF recreation centre. With its clean, friendly, and at the same time futuristic look, the ZENDOME precisely reflected the spirit of the whole event: looking optimistically into tomorrow, developing new ideas, and enabling fresh potential.

The temporary architecture was used in the finale round in a variety of ways and equipped accordingly. In addition to presentations and discussions, the geodesic dome provided a lounge with foosball, billiards, and game consoles for the talented youth to relax in. Kinetic movement games ensured that spirits were raised and live streams and briefings provided up-to-date information for all participants. Especially exciting and stimulating was the "Fishbowl" with the chief executive officer of Stiftung and companies. The circular group discussion under the roof of the ZENDOME offered insights into the economic life and ways of thinking of modern decision-makers. The circular arrangement of the participants in the likewise circular geodesic dome made one thing optically clear: ideas need to be exchanged, they must revolve so they spread and are then brought to life.