The project proposes to examine the role of scientific elites for processes of integration in Europe. It understands integration as multifaceted processes of socialization, knowledge acquisition and exchanging discourses with a central role of elites. This classical (neo-)functionalist framework provides a basis for extending our understanding of integration by analyzing focal processes, exchanges and discourses in the establishment of modern science, i.e. biology and chemistry.Between the enlightenment and the 20th century both subjects not only developed a unique understanding of their subjects but also established an intensive transnational and transborder exchange of knowledge. In reflecting upon new visions and the Europe of citizens it is important not only to develop a vision about the character of a future common Europe, but to identify the carriers and the mechanisms of community building, based on empirical facts. The creation of modern biology and chemistry in Europe are excellent examples for this because they take place in a kind of laboratory situation: the transition to modern science. They can enlighten not only how discourses transcend borders, but also how elites interact by rational discussion and what mechanisms work to establish a common knowledge community.The project’s focus is on non-integration related subjects and knowledge acquisition. Whereas in the fields of European law, economics and politics it seems obvious why elites interact and transcend borders, this it is not as clear in the sciences. Essentially, science can be seen as blind with regard to nation and ideology. Moreover, today’s sciences are based on extremely specialised global issue communities. But it is important to know the origins of these communities. In this perspective, it is instructive to reconstruct the mechanisms of these knowledge communities to know the mechanisms and causes for community building in non-politically steered areas.