中文The 2025 Zhongguancun Forum Annual Conference took place in Beijing from March 27 to 31. Francesco Faiola, a professor from our center, was invited to participate in the opening ceremony and deliver a keynote address at the “Beijing Outstanding Young Science and Technology Talents Development Forum”.
Under the theme “Scientific and Technological Innovation · Youth Responsibility”, Professor Faiola shared insights from his 11 years of scientific research experience in China. Reflecting on his collaboration with Chinese research teams, he emphasized that “an open and inclusive research ecosystem is essential to unlocking the creativity of young scientists”. He praised China’s robust policy support, advanced platform development, and commitment to international cooperation, which together create a holistic pathway for young researchers to transition “from laboratory breakthroughs to real-word industrialization”.
Faiola also highlighted the unique dynamism of China’s young scientific community, noting that their “pioneering exploration and pragmatic execution” serve as key drivers of innovation. To further empower emerging talent, he proposed three strategies: aligning research with national policy priorities, fostering interdisciplinary training programs, and cultivating global perspectives to tackle shared challenges.
This year forum, centered on the theme “New Quality Productive Forces and Global Science and Technology Cooperation”, featured 128 events across five pillars: conference sessions, technology transactions, achievement showcases, frontier competitions, and networking activities. Speakers and delegates from over 100 countries and regions explored strategies to harness scientific innovation for sustainable development, offering fresh solutions to global challenges.
As an authority in stem cell toxicology, Professor Faiola joined the State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology in December 2013 and pioneered the world’s first stem cell toxicology research platform. His work in identifying and mitigating risks posed by environmental pollutants has profoundly contributed to China’s ecological sustainability and public health. His accolades include the Chinese Government Friendship Award, Beijing Great Wall Friendship Award, and CAS International Scientific Cooperation Award, underscoring his impactful collaborations in advancing global science.
The opening ceremony of the 2025 Zhongguancun Forum Annual Conference (Image reproduced from Xinhua News, https://china.qianlong.com/zgcforum2025/xwdt/2025/0327/8459907.shtml)
Attendees at the opening ceremony (Image reproduced from Xinhua News, https://china.qianlong.com/zgcforum2025/xwdt/2025/0327/8459907.shtml)
“Beijing Outstanding Young Science and Technology Talents Development Forum”
（Image reproduced from Beijing News on May 30, 2023）
Francesco Faiola delivers keynote speech at the “Beijing Outstanding Young Science and Technology Talents Development Forum”
Conference website link
Department of International Cooperation
State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology
March 31, 2025
