On January 11, 2019, the first Forum of Excellent Young Scholars Home and Abroad (Haiqing Forum) was held by the Joint Research Institute of South China University of Technology and Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (hereinafter referred to as the “Institute”). Five outstanding young overseas scholars from the National Institutes of Health, Stanford University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Helmholtz Institute of Germany and Hong Kong University of Science and Technology were invited to attend the Forum.

Academician Tang Ben Zhong, the director of the Institute, Professor Qin Anjun, the executive director, Wang Zhiming, the associate dean, together with more than 50 teachers and students including Professor Zhao Zujin, Professor Hu Rongrong and Professor Zhu Xuhui participated in the Forum. The forum was presided over by Professor Qin Anju.

Overseas young scholars giving a report

Firstly, Academician Tang Ben Zhong welcomed the young scholars who had traveled a long distance to participate in this Forum and expressed his expectation for this Forum. Then, five young scholars introduced their important progress in their respective fields. Dr. Ji Xiaofan from Hong Kong University of Science and Technology introduced the research and application of functional supramolecular polymer materials through a fluorescent three-dimensional code with variable storage information. Dr. Liu Yijing from National Institutes of Health introduced advances in the precise diagnosis and treatment of cancer using nanomaterials, a strategy of self-assembly of nanoparticles, and how to design nanomaterials to enhance the therapeutic effect of cancer using the characteristics of nanomaterials and biological interactions. Dr. Zhang Jinbao from Stanford University introduced the development and main challenges of solar cell technology, as well as new methods and new materials for improving the efficiency and stability of solar cell technology. Dr. Wang Qiong from Helmholtz Research Institute in Germany introduced perovskite solar cell technology and related research work on prolonging the operation life of perovskite solar cells. Dr. Li Junwei from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology introduced the application of new tools in the imaging and diseases diagnosis and treatment.

Discussion between the speaker and the participants

During the Forum, young scholars had a heated discussion with Professors and students present.

The South China University of Technology Forum of Excellent Young Scholars Home and Abroad was first launched in November 2015, aiming at inviting young talents with different academic backgrounds to discuss about international scientific frontiers, hot research areas and technical issues of industry. Through this platform, we can enlighten each other, broaden our horizons, enhance international exchanges and collaborations, and promote common interests of both sides.