The BIPM has proudly concluded its first-ever Young Metrologists’ 2050+ Vision programme, a milestone initiative designed to capture and inspire innovative ideas from the next generation of metrology leaders.

This exciting programme, coordinated by Chingis Kuanbayev and Kangyoung Sung from the International Bureau of Weights and Measures (BIPM), alongside 11 regional representatives, brought together over 380 young metrologists from around the world to share their perspectives on the future of metrology.

Global Collaboration and Participation

Regional online workshops, held between late 2023 and mid-2024, formed a corner stone of the programme, offering platforms for young metrologists, aged 21 and above, to discuss both challenges and opportunities that their fields are likely to face by 2050. Each of the 11 Regional Metrology Organizations (RMOs) involved held their own workshops, with participants from AFRIMETS, APMP, COOMET, EURAMET, GULFMET and SIM. These sessions not only sparked engaging conversations but also encouraged cross-regional exchanges, which will be critical for the global future of metrology.

Mr Kuanbayev shared that the workshops received overwhelmingly positive feedback, with young professionals appreciating the opportunity to connect with peers and explore diverse perspectives. One participant noted, "It was fascinating and a great source of learning and sharing," while another said they "found it very insightful to hear the views from metrologists with different backgrounds to my own."

A Vision for the Future

Following the workshops, the programme's young metrologists provided their input on a range of topics, including the need for greater collaboration, skills development and innovations in science. Over 170 responses to a questionnaire helped shape the consolidation meeting in July 2024, where the top five young contributors were highlighted for their outstanding proposals.

These contributors shared visions that could drive the future of metrology:

• Dr Diana Wong (Australia) focused on biological metrology and public health,
• Maksim Klunin (Belarus) emphasized sustainability and enhanced education,
• Frankie Haymes (UK) explored optical radiometry for earth observation and space,
• Aisling O’Rourke (Ireland) discussed the ethics of science scepticism,
• Cristhian Paredes (Colombia) delved into perceptual metrology.

Key Areas of Focus

The discussions during the workshops and consolidation meeting revealed key areas for action, particularly in advancing metrological capabilities and promoting collaboration across different National Metrology Institutes (NMIs). The group identified the importance of developing interdisciplinary skills, including AI, data science and IT, as well as strengthening research cooperation across regions.

Looking to the future, metrologists emphasized the increasing importance of areas such as quantum technology and even space exploration. One of the programme’s key findings was that "digitalization is already a game changer, requiring metrologists with new skills and mindsets."

The valuable insights collected here will contribute to the International Committee for Weights and Measures (CIPM)’s Strategy 2030+ and will be presented in a special session of the 150th Anniversary celebrations of the BIPM and the Metre Convention.

The Path Ahead

With such promising engagement from young professionals, the BIPM’s Young Metrologists report is set to become an essential part of shaping the future of global metrology. The enthusiasm and fresh ideas presented by participants signal that the next generation is ready to take the helm, ensuring that metrology continues to evolve alongside rapid technological advancements.