On December 27, 2023, Prof. Chen Xiaodong, professor of Nanyang Technological University, editor-in-chief of ACS nano, member of the National Academy of Sciences of Singapore, member of the Singapore Academy of Engineering, and alumnus of the 95th Chemistry Base Class, was invited to participate in the Forum on Cutting-edge Science and Technology Innovation of Fuzhou University, and brought a lively and wonderful report on "Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation in the Era of Intelligence: Dots and Drops Stringing Together. Discipline Fusion" report.
Prof. Chen Xiaodong mentioned that in the new era of artificial intelligence, it is difficult for single-discipline research to meet the needs of social and technological development, while interdisciplinary research can provide new perspectives and methods for solving complex problems.
Taking his own study experience and research in his group as an example, Prof. Chen Xiaodong focused on the cross-application of flexible electronics in chemical engineering, chemistry, materials science, mechanics, electrical engineering, artificial intelligence, medical engineering and other disciplines, demonstrating how interdisciplinary cooperation can promote innovative thinking and technological breakthroughs. This case vividly demonstrates the importance of interdisciplinary communication in future scientific research.
In addition, Prof. Chen discussed how to nurture graduate students with interdisciplinary perspectives so that they can effectively face challenges and seize opportunities in their future research and careers. Finally, Prof. Chen sent a message to the students, "Our life today is jointly determined by our efforts over the past years, and our tomorrow determines what we should do today", urging them to strengthen their professional foundation, cultivate the ability to learn over time, an open mindset, and the skills to regulate their emotions, and at the same time, to have self-confidence and a sense of accomplishment to cope with the challenges and opportunities in their future research and career.
Picture of Prof. Chen Xiaodong's presentation
Picture of Prof. Chen Xiaodong's presentation
During the lecture and the Q&A session at the end, the students actively interacted with Prof. Chen Xiaodong, who answered their questions and thoughts on the details of interdisciplinary research and innovation, and shared his research experience and insights, which created a warm and cordial academic atmosphere and benefited the teachers and students present.
After the meeting, Prof. Chen Xiaodong visited Qingyuan Innovation Laboratory and the laboratories of the research groups, and had an in-depth communication with the laboratory members and gave guidance to our research direction.
Picture of Prof. Chen Xiaodong communicating with laboratory numbers
