29.10.2026
Sir Peter Gluckman, Co-Director, Research and Policy at Koi Tū, has completed his five-year term as President of the International Science Council (ISC), handing over the role to Professor Robbert Dijkgraaf.
Sir Peter handed over the presidency during the Beijing Science Dialogue and ISC Midterm Members’ Meeting in China, which brought together ISC members, fellows and partners to discuss the role of science in addressing global challenges.
In an interview published by the ISC to mark the end of his term, Sir Peter has offered his thoughts on the Council’s growing international influence.
This includes stronger relationships with the United Nations, UNESCO, the European Commission and OECD, and the Council’s role in promoting science diplomacy and international research cooperation.
He also reflects on the importance of building public trust in science, and the need for science to be more closely connected with society and policymaking.
Looking ahead, Sir Peter identifies artificial intelligence, geopolitical tensions and changing attitudes towards science as significant challenges.
“Science is the nearest we have to a universal language, so it has a particular role to play in a fractured world,” he says, while highlighting the importance of greater collaboration across disciplines, including the social sciences and humanities, to address complex global issues.
Sir Peter will continue to contribute to the ISC’s work on international research cooperation, alongside his ongoing work with Koi Tū.
Read the full interview with Sir Peter on the International Science Council website
