The Sixth Graduate Research Exchange of the School of Emergent Soft Matter at South China University of Technology concluded successfully on April 24, 2026.

Held under the theme “Bringing Ideas Together in Soft Matter, Sparking Inspiration,” the event brought together graduate students and faculty members for a day of research presentations, discussion, and academic exchange. This year’s event featured 28 oral presentations, 56 posters, and 65 microscopy image submissions, providing a vibrant platform for students to share research progress, exchange ideas across disciplines, and explore the diverse research landscape of the School.

Oral Presentations: Sharing Research in Ten Minutes

Three parallel sessions were held simultaneously, with 28 graduate students presenting their research in concise ten-minute talks. Topics ranged from polymer self-assembly and biomimetic biointerfaces to soft-matter mechanics and applications of functional materials.

The presentations demonstrated both the breadth and depth of current research at the School. Faculty reviewers from different research areas provided constructive feedback and engaged students in in-depth discussions, creating an open and stimulating academic atmosphere.

Poster Session: Research in Focus

The academic corridor on the second floor of Building C3a at the Guangzhou International Campus once again served as the venue for the Poster Session. A total of 56 posters were displayed, presenting experimental design, data analysis, theoretical modeling, and research visualization.

Professor Cheng, Dean of the School, visited the exhibition and exchanged views with participating students. He commended the overall quality of the posters and noted the significant improvement in students’ academic presentation and communication skills.

During the Poster Session, students presented their research ideas, responded to questions, and exchanged views with faculty members and peers. The session provided an open platform for participants to receive feedback, communicate across research groups, and gain new perspectives on research within the School.

Microscopic Visions: Where Science Meets Art

For the second consecutive year, the Microscopic Visions Exhibition received the largest number of submissions among all sections of the event, with 65 works presented this year.

The microscopy images revealed the visual beauty of scientific research at the microscopic scale. Crystal growth patterns resembled desert roses, ordered arrays of nanospheres evoked star-filled skies, and phase separation in polymer blends created abstract visual patterns.

The exhibition encouraged students to combine scientific observation with creative expression, revealing both the scientific and artistic dimensions of materials research.

Interactive Check-In: Engaging with Every Session

To encourage participants to engage with every component of the event, this year’s programme introduced an interactive stamp-collection activity.

Participants visited the oral presentation sessions, the Poster Session, and the Microscopic Visions Exhibition. After visiting each section and taking part in the associated activities, they received a themed stamp. Those who collected all three stamps received a commemorative gift.

The activity encouraged students to engage with research presented across the event, learn about the work of other research groups, and connect with peers from different areas of the School.

Recognition and Reflection

At the closing ceremony, Professor Cheng congratulated all participants on the successful completion of the event and highlighted the notable improvement in poster quality.

He encouraged graduate students to participate actively in academic exchange—not only as presenters, but also as engaged listeners, questioners, and peer reviewers. He emphasized the importance of learning about research being carried out across the School and fostering a culture of open communication and mutual learning.

School leaders and faculty members then presented certificates to the award-winning students. The recognition celebrated not only outstanding research presentations and posters, but also the commitment, creativity, and effort demonstrated by all participants.

Looking Ahead

The Sixth Graduate Research Exchange provided a valuable opportunity for students to communicate research, exchange ideas, and strengthen connections across disciplines.

The School sincerely thanks all faculty members, students, and staff who contributed to the event. Their active participation, thoughtful discussions, and behind-the-scenes efforts made this academic gathering possible.

Building on the achievements and inspiration of this year’s event, the School looks forward to welcoming more students to share their research, present their ideas, and contribute to an even more vibrant academic community in the years ahead.