7 faculty members, 2 alumni awarded 2024 Xplorer Prize
Aug 28, 2024
Peking University, August 28, 2024: 49 young scientists were awarded this year's Xplorer Prize, a science award initiated by the Tencent Foundation and some renowned scientists – to encourage talents working on fundamental science and breakthrough technologies.
Seven faculty members from Peking University have won the accolades: Researcher Yang Xiaofei from the School of Physics, Prof. Yao Fang from the School of Mathematical Sciences, Prof. Liu Zhibo from the College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Prof. Peng Yingjie from the School of Physics, Researcher Cao Yunlong from the Biomedical Pioneering Innovation Center, Prof. Yi Chengqi from the School of Life Sciences, and Researcher Qiu Chenguang from the School of Electronics.
In addition, Wang Bo, an alumnus of the College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, and Yang Yi, an alumnus of the School of Electronics Engineering and Computer Science, are also among the recipients of the 2024 Xplorer Prize, for their pioneering research in nanoporous materials and nanophotonics respectively.
Graphics designed by Chao Ranran
So far, a total of 41 teachers from Peking University have received this honor.
According to the organizer, this year's 49 prize-winners have made significant strides in diverse fields, ranging from quantum studies to RNA research. Their groundbreaking research not only showcases broad scientific interest but also addresses crucial societal and economic needs.
Each prize-winner will be awarded 420,000 US dollars over five years by the Tencent Foundation.
First awarded in 2018, the prize primarily supports scientists in fields such as mathematics, physics, chemistry, life sciences, electronics, energy, and other areas. Awardees will also have the opportunity to engage in interdisciplinary symposia.
Pan Jianwei, an academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and a quantum physicist, pointed out, "During the review process, international and younger reviewers were involved to better understand cutting-edge global developments. The final decisions for the award are based entirely on the originality of research and academic merit – which form the funding philosophy and commitment of the prize."
"More than the prize, the 'Young Scientists 50 Forum' is organized each year to invite recipients of the Xplorer award for academic exchanges. This platform fosters intellectual collisions," noted Pan.
Wang Wurong, chairperson of the New Cornerstone Science Foundation, also mentioned that this year's review process saw stricter measures so as to avoid conflicts of interest.
"The award is a private one. We have made sure the selection process is led by scientists and involves public voting. We have a supervisory committee that guides and assists us. There is also a mechanism in place – allowing the scientists to make the key decisions," Wang added.
Among the 49 award recipients this year, representing 28 different institutions across 13 cities including Hong Kong SAR, 10 institutions had winners for the first time. Additionally, there has been a significant increase in female recipients, with seven women awarded this year compared to three last year.
Source:
CGTN
Edited by:
Dennis Meng
