Professor Bernt Schiele was appointed by the German National Academy of Natural Sciences Leopoldina, as a member. This academy, founded in 1652, is the oldest continuously existing learned society in the world. Being the National Academy in Germany it advises the German government on scientific topics. In its own words: It promotes a scientifically enlightened society and the responsible application of scientific insight for the benefit of humankind and the natural world.
Congratulations, Bernt!