New Leader at Germany's Largest Science Museum: Physics Professor Takes the Reins from a 21-Year Veteran
Shift in Leadership: Appointment of a Physicist as Director at the German Museum - Scientist assumes leadership at German Museum
Michael Decker, a professor of physics, is stepping into the big leagues as the newly appointed Director General of the German Museum in Munich, effective June 1. He's succeeding Wolfgang Heckl, who's retiring after leading the museum for over two decades.
Engaging the Public in Discussions about Technology
Decker views his appointment as a "great honor" and plans to spend his first days getting acquainted with the house's intricacies. His ultimate goal is to maintain the museum as a hub for "open discussions regarding the societal impact of science and technology."
He aims to spark curiosity for the natural sciences, foster conversation among visitors, and facilitate interaction with the scientific community. For instance, Decker hopes to initiate discussions about the role of Artificial Intelligence in the healthcare sector, particularly among patients.
Lightning Strikes and Faraday's Cage
As a child, Decker found high-voltage demonstrations and lightning particularly captivating. Reminiscing, he recalls being dared to enter Faraday's cage during one such display. His brother went before him, and Decker didn't want to miss out; the experience left a lasting impression.
Good news for fans of the Mining Museum, which is undergoing renovation at the moment: A digital twin of the mine might become a reality. More details on this will be discussed with the new leadership, according to Blume. Decker shares enthusiasm for bringing back the mine, albeit in a modernized form.
Perfect Fit for the Job
Blume describes Decker as the "ideal candidate" for the position. museums should instill excitement, not fear, about technology, he explains. They should help society embrace technology, yet not blindly trust it. Under Decker’s leadership, the museum will continue to look toward the future, focusing on AI and quantum technology, just like Heckl did.
Heckl handed over the reins gracefully, saying he felt privileged to have served the museum for over 20 years. He's optimistic about passing the baton to Michael Decker. Blume lauds Heckl's efforts, stating, "Motivating people about technology is his life's mission, and the German Museum as we know it today is his life's work." Heckl also played a crucial role in the museum's future initiative and comprehensive renovation, which will continue until 2028 and cost roughly 750 million euros.
Multiple Locations
The German Museum, one of the world’s leading science and technology museums, has several locations in Munich, including the museum island, the Verkehrszentrum, the Flugwerft Schließheim, and branches in Nuremberg and Bonn.
[1] Source: Official Press Release from the German Museum, dated April 2025.
[5] Source: Personal Profile of Michael Decker, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, 2023.
- Michael Decker, as the new Director General of the German Museum, expressed his commitment to keeping the museum a platform for open discussions on the societal impact of science and technology, particularly focusing on the role of Artificial Intelligence in healthcare.
- In light of the German Museum's initiative to potentially create a digital twin of the Mine, Michael Decker, with his enthusiasm for modernizing the museum, looks forward to contributing to this innovative project.
