Sabina Leonelli

Prof. Sabina Leonelli is a Professor of Philosophy and History of Science and Technology at the Technical University of Munich (TUM), affiliated with the TUM School of Social Sciences and Technology. She holds a BSc from University College London, an MSc from the London School of Economics, and a PhD from Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam. Her research focuses on the intersection of technology, data, and scientific practices, particularly in the life sciences and environmental domains. She has directed the Centre for the Study of the Life Sciences at the University of Exeter (2013–2024) and was appointed TUM Professor in 2024.

Her work explores data-centric methodologies, open science governance, and the ethical implications of digitization in research. Key themes include the role of computational tools in reshaping scientific collaboration, the political economy of open science, and the epistemological challenges posed by big data in healthcare and agriculture. She has published extensively on topics like data sharing, AI ethics, and transdisciplinary research.

• Education:
  • BSc Hons in History and Philosophy of Science (University College London, 2000)
  • MSc in History and Philosophy of Science (London School of Economics, 2001)
  • PhD in Philosophy of Science (Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 2007)
• Awards:
  • 2024: Kluge Chair in Technology and Society (Library of Congress)
  • 2023: Honorary Doctorate from Tilburg University
  • 2022: Patrick Suppes Prize for Philosophy of Science (American Philosophical Society)
  • 2018: Lakatos Prize for Data-Centric Biology
  • 2007: Marjorie Grene Prize (International Society for the History, Philosophy and Social Studies of Biology)
• Research and Impact: Prof. Leonelli’s work bridges philosophy, history, and social studies of science. She advocates for equitable data governance, responsible AI integration, and inclusive scientific practices. Her recent projects address global health data ethics, agricultural data linkage, and the societal implications of AI in research.
• Leadership: Directed the Centre for the Study of the Life Sciences at Exeter (2013–2024). Currently leads initiatives like the Ethical Data Initiative and contributes to transnational research networks on plant science and global health.