11^th EuChemS
Chemistry Congress
July 2-6, 2028

Invitation Speech by GÖCH President Peter Gärtner

Ladies and gentlemen, dear colleagues and friends,

What a remarkable week it has been.

Five days of outstanding science, inspiring lectures, lively discussions, and—perhaps most importantly—the opportunity to reconnect with colleagues and make new friends. We have explored exciting developments across all areas of chemistry and celebrated the achievements of both young scientists and experienced researchers.

Before looking ahead, I consider it necessary to express our sincere gratitude to the Royal Flemish Chemical Society, the Local Organising Committee, the Scientific Committee, and all the volunteers who have made this 10th EuChemS Chemistry Congress such an outstanding success. Thank you, Antwerp, for your warm hospitality, your excellent organisation, and for setting such a high standard for us all.

But as one congress comes to an end, another begins.

Together with the CEO of my society it is our great honor, on behalf of the Austrian Chemical Society to invite you to the 11th EuChemS Chemistry Congress, which will take place in Vienna, Austria, from 2 to 6 July 2028.

The EuChemS Chemistry Congress is much more than a scientific meeting. It is where chemists from across Europe and beyond exchange ideas, establish collaborations, inspire one another, and demonstrate the essential role of chemistry in addressing society’s greatest challenges. We are proud that Vienna has been chosen to host the next chapter of this outstanding congress series.

Vienna is a city where science, innovation, and culture come together. It is home to world-renowned universities, excellent research institutions, and a vibrant scientific community. The Austrian Chemical Society will represent this tradition while looking firmly toward the future. Hosting ECC11 is both a privilege and a responsibility, and we are committed to building on the tremendous success of Antwerp.

By 2028, chemistry will continue to be at the forefront of solving global challenges—from climate protection and sustainability to energy, artificial intelligence, digital chemistry, advanced materials, and human health. New discoveries, new technologies, and new generations of scientists will shape our future, and Vienna will provide the ideal place to discuss these developments together.

ECC11 will bring together researchers from academia, industry, education, and policy. We aim to create a congress that combines scientific excellence with an open, welcoming, and collaborative atmosphere, where established scientists, early-career researchers, students, and industrial partners all feel equally at home and comfortable.

But Vienna offers much more than an excellent scientific programme.

Located in the heart of Europe, Vienna is easily accessible from across the continent and around the world. Our modern conference facilities, efficient public transport, and renowned hospitality provide the perfect environment for scientific exchange. Beyond the lecture halls, you can enjoy one of Europe’s most beautiful cities—its imperial architecture, world-famous museums, historic coffee houses, vibrant music scene, and the unique atmosphere that has inspired generations of scientists, artists, and thinkers.

Austria is also home to a strong and innovative chemical and pharmaceutical industry, providing outstanding opportunities to strengthen the dialogue between academia and industry—one of the defining strengths of the EuChemS Chemistry Congress.

Our organising team and the staff of the Austrian Chemical Society, has already begun preparing a congress worthy of this remarkable series and the scientific committees will join in soon to setup the scientific program as well. We look forward to welcoming you with excellent science, inspiring discussions, and the warm hospitality for which Vienna is known.

So, dear colleagues, please save the date: 2 to 6 July 2028 – Vienna, Austria.

Bring your science. Bring your ideas. Bring your colleagues and your students.

As we leave Antwerp inspired by everything we have experienced this week, let us continue this journey together in Vienna—where chemistry, collaboration, and friendship will once again come together to shape a better future by new chemistry.

See you all in Vienna!

Thank you.

– Ao.Univ.Prof. Dipl.-Ing. Dr.techn. Peter Gärtner