This year, the pandemic has turned almost everything digital – also the Stockholm International Youth Science Seminars.

Even though, it would have been much nicer to meet you all in person and speak with you, I appreciate the opportunity to send this digital greeting to you all – wherever you are in the world.

Normally, this time of year, Stockholm is filled with international scientists and researchers. During one week, science and research are at the top of the agenda when His Majesty the King hands out the Nobel Prizes.

For me, to be able to meet these acclaimed scientists is one of the true highlights of the year.

I have to admit, for us “laymen”, it is sometimes a bit of a challenge to fully grasp the complex work of the Nobel laureates.

However, when listening to the laureates, it is crystal-clear to me that one of the key ingredients for a successful scientist, except from hard work, is to have fun while conducting your research.

Dear participants, research and development in your fields of interest will move our world forward.

All of you, 13 young men and women from all around the globe, are therefore, important. You are some of the people that we are relying on to drive our societies forward, and to take on the major challenges that our world is facing.

You are a true inspiration – to me, and to all the young students that are listening in on this event.

I really hope that we someday will be able to welcome you here in Stockholm. Perhaps even on Nobel Day when you are to receive a Nobel Prize.

I wish you the best of luck with your future research!