In a significant ceremony held in Beijing on Friday, 71 newly elected members of the Chinese Academy of Engineering (CAE) formally received their certificates and committed to advancing scientific innovation and transforming research into practical applications. The event marked a pivotal moment in China’s scientific landscape, emphasizing the critical role of engineering excellence in national development.
CAE President Li Xiaohong addressed the gathering, highlighting how this year’s academician selection process specifically aligned with national strategic priorities. ‘This election cycle emphasized driving the development of new quality productive forces through technological innovation, in keeping with contemporary requirements,’ Li stated. He encouraged the new academicians to take leadership roles in scientific innovation, contribute to strategic national research, and serve as exemplary figures in advancing China’s journey toward high-quality scientific self-reliance.
The new members represent diverse engineering disciplines and shared their specialized commitments. Zhang Pengju from the Civil, Hydraulic and Architecture Engineering Division pledged to ‘promote the spirit of scientists and break through key core technologies,’ focusing on transforming engineering science into practical solutions that improve living environments in grassland regions and promote green urban-rural transformation.
Lu Zhanyuan from the Agriculture Division emphasized the honor as recognition for all technological workers in frontier regions. He outlined pressing challenges including ‘ensuring food security, promoting green agricultural development, and overcoming bottlenecks in agricultural development in northern China’s farming-pastoral ecotone.’ Lu committed to focusing on farmland protection, water conservation, seed industry revitalization, and cultivating young scientific talents.
A notable breakthrough in this year’s election was the inclusion of three researchers from private enterprises, signaling China’s commitment to cross-sector collaboration. Huang Xianbo, chief engineer at global advanced materials supplier Kingfa and member of the Chemical, Metallurgical and Materials Engineering Division, noted that ‘the primary concern for researchers in private enterprises is transitioning technological achievements into productive forces.’ He pledged enhanced cooperation with university and research institute scientists to conduct cutting-edge research, contributing to China’s development as a science and technology powerhouse.
The ceremony followed last month’s announcement by both the Chinese Academy of Sciences and Chinese Academy of Engineering of their expanded ranks, adding 144 new domestic academicians and 51 international members.