Benjamin Johnson completed his PhD in physics in 2010 at the Technische Universität Berlin with a thesis on thin layer solar cells investigated with X-ray spectroscopic methods. His later research focused on catalytic materials for alternative fuels. In 2015, he began research in the field of science history, investigating progress in science and technological innovation. His work has resulted in a detailed portrait of Fritz Haber’s discovery of ammonia synthesis in the first decade of the twentieth century (Making ammonia, Springer 2022). Continuing in the direction of scientific and technological development, Dr. Johnson is now applying these ideas to prospective technologies for the current energy transition. His approach combines the natural sciences with history and science communication to provide a roadmap for science-based governance.