German Chancellor Angela Merkel has been in charge of her country for the past 16 years, leading it through a slew of crises, including the 2008 global financial crisis, Brexit, the need to phase out fossil fuels, and most recently the COVID outbreak. Since taking over as head of the EU’s largest economy, she’s been regarded as a “anchor in stormy times” and “de facto leader of Europe” by several commentators.

No single factor can explain the fact that Merkel has survived longer than seven Australian prime ministers. However, her background as a scientist provides valuable information.

World politics will lose another scientist this month when German Chancellor Angela Merkel steps down after a fifth term in power. Another time in Australia we find ourselves thinking, “Where are the scientists in all our politics?”

There have been numerous shining examples of scientists who have gone on to tremendous success in politics around the world. In what ways might scientists be particularly well-suited to holding positions of authority and influence?

Throughout her long political career, Merkel has maintained many of the characteristics that are prevalent among scientists. She has a lot of time on her side and is very observant. She recognizes the importance of long-term planning and has a clear vision for the future. She’s logical and observant. She also fosters a spirit of cooperation and teamwork.

When it comes to drawing boundaries, Merkel is well known for her ability to do so. She does not exaggerate the facts, but rather encourages a period of uncertainty in order to acquire enough information to make a decision.

A specialization in quantum chemistry, Merkel received her doctorate in the subject of quantum mechanics. Quantum physics, well known for the gruesome “Schrödingers cat” thought experiment, is directing scientists in their quest to understand and modify the properties of atoms and subatomic particles.

Quantum mechanics is a mystery to many people, but its counterintuitive character actually displays its strength in science. Scientists build and test models of the world by gathering data and constructing theory, and by following the trail of contradictory evidence.

Similarly, quantum mechanics predicts more than we can instantly explain, much like the most advanced scientific models. Using this instrument, we can get beyond our human limitations, such as bias and instinct, to uncover bigger realities.

Australia has never had a greater need for the instruments of science and the qualities of its scientists than it does today, in the face of viral epidemics and misinformation, distrust of authority and degradation of meaning.

In Australia’s federal parliament, just 17 of the 227 members have degrees or training in STEM subjects. That’s just 7% of the total.

Climate change, biodiversity crises, pandemic variations, cybersecurity and AI issues, and antibiotic resistance all pose serious concerns to Australia.

National decision-makers must objectively examine complex information, distinguish fact from fiction, and construct collaboration and techniques that will take years, or decades, to completely develop.

In order to reduce emissions, create new industries, and safeguard Australia’s digital assets, we require just and courageous leadership that has the confidence to adopt and rapidly implement new technology.

If more scientists were elected to Australia’s federal parliament, how would things change? We are capable of doing so.

To reply to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change “Code Red” report, the Australian government would have enacted more aggressive carbon emissions targets and an infrastructure investment plan.

As a world-class digital economy, it would have created jobs and wealth while enhancing access to education, health care, and the workplace for all Australians.

Strengthening investment in research and development would be a bold, evidence-based approach taken by the government to boost our economy. A great return on investment in R&D would encourage others to do the same, boosting GDP and moving Australia out of the bottom of the OECD rankings for government R&D investment.

An economy that generates no waste would be quickly implemented in Australia by developing the necessary manufacturing, energy, and data infrastructure.

It’s hardly a coincidence that science and politics go “hand-in-lab-glove.” In a world of overwhelming complexity, both desire order. COVID-19 to global warming, we seem to be swallowed whole by the difficulties of the twenty-first century, our national unity weakened by false information. How can a scientist make a difference in the political arena?

“Many small steps” and “avoid extreme reforms” are Angela Merkel’s plan, she has said.

Invoking the rhythms of science (where decades-long projects are usual), making decisions based on the best available information, proving cause and effect, and creating and testing our models over and over again can lead to progress. A continual accumulation of ever more precise and accurate information can be reaped.

From 10% renewable energy to the world’s leading renewable energy economy in just 16 years, Angela Merkel was able to transform Germany’s energy mix. By 2045, she set the goal of a net zero-emissions economy, making Germany the world’s fourth largest economy. In her time as chancellor, she initiated a number of evidence-based adjustments, including this one.

Science was born out of need, as “a light in the dark” from the era of the dark ages. We have reaped the benefits of an enlightenment fueled in large part by scientific discovery.

Science can also assist keep the flame going when new shadows creep into the globe. Scientists in Australia, your help is urgently required.