In a captivating lecture at the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nobel Prize-winning scientist Sir Paul Nurse inspired a new generation of researchers during his Beijing address on Tuesday. The renowned geneticist and President of Britain’s Royal Society engaged with over 300 students from China and abroad, delivering profound insights into the fundamental nature of life itself.
Dr. Nurse, who received the 2001 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for his discoveries of protein molecules that control cell division, framed his presentation around historical scientific pioneers. He illuminated key biological concepts through the groundbreaking work of Gregor Mendel, the father of modern genetics, and Charles Darwin, architect of evolutionary theory through natural selection.
The distinguished scientist presented life as an extraordinarily complex information system that transcends mere chemical and physical processes. He emphasized that all terrestrial life shares a common ancestral origin, having evolved through meticulous natural selection processes over millennia.
During the interactive session, Nurse particularly highlighted the critical role young researchers play in advancing scientific frontiers. When addressing questions about unsolved scientific challenges, he redirected inquiry toward the audience, stating: ‘I would ask people like you rather than people like me for the answer to that question… because that’s where the answers are coming from.’
The British scientist expressed strong interest in fostering collaborative ties between Chinese and UK research communities, specifically mentioning potential partnerships in his specialized field of cell reproduction research. The event served as both an educational masterclass and a bridge-building initiative in international scientific cooperation.