In the context of the 40-th anniversary of the establishment of the Slovak Academy of Sciences an interview with its president Mr. Lichardus has been carried out. The main topics were history of scientific research in the period of the first ČSR, activities of the SAS as a leading institution of Slovak science in years 1953-1969, as well as factors negativelly affected its development. Essential changes in organizational structure and activities of SAS since November 1989 were discussed (e. g. founding of Council of Scientists, Grant Agency, system of accreditation of academic institutes etc.). Mr. Lichardus presented ideas about the future trends in science and scientific education. Finally he mentioned particular projects in individual scientific branches which contribute to the development of the new technologies and sustainable development in Slovakia.